5 Steps Towards Sustainable Yachting: A Guide for Eco-Friendly Operations Onboard

Eco Yachting has emerged as a leading topic in the industry, shaping the future of yachting towards a more sustainable approach. The maritime industry is evolving, with new technologies focused on reducing the environmental footprint of yachts. However, the impact extends far beyond technological improvements.

STILLA has sustainability at its core, driving our commitment to make an impact and transition to an eco-friendly industry. It is part of our mission to innovate in our products while encouraging our partners, clients, and other players to take important steps towards sustainability.

Each vessel is essential to create an eco-friendly future in yachting. Immediate impact and effective change come from the practices adopted onboard daily. From crew to guests, manufacturers to suppliers, everyone needs to be part of the solution.

How can luxury yachts operate more sustainably?

Step 1: Efficient Use of Energy and Water

This first step is essential for reducing a yacht’s environmental footprint, requiring forethought and planning. Optimising systems and routes can effectively improve energy use, alongside the implementation of energy-saving such as LED lighting, modern galley equipment, and efficient HVAC systems. As a limited resource, water needs to be used wisely, with mindful management, conservation systems, and reuse wherever possible.

Step 2: Waste Management

There is no way we can talk about sustainable yachting, without addressing waste and its impact on preserving marine ecosystems. Implementing a few simple practices can make a significant difference in promoting eco-friendly operations.

Proper waste sorting and recycling are essential, ensuring that all waste is correctly disposed of at designated facilities ashore. Additionally, eliminating single-use plastics onboard in favour of reusable alternatives is a key step in reducing environmental impact (and it also enhances luxury).

Step 3: Sustainable Provisions

Sustainable operations go beyond internal actions, extending the impact on supplier practices. Sourcing and handling eco-friendly provisions are essential for reducing waste, managing resources efficiently, and lowering the yacht’s carbon footprint.

Choosing responsible suppliers is key: sourcing from companies that prioritise sustainability in their operations drives positive change across the industry. Opting for local provisions further minimises transportation emissions, contributing to a greener footprint.

Incorporating preserved flowers from STILLA in your yacht’s decorations offers significant environmental benefits. Unlike fresh flowers, preserved flowers last longer and require fewer replacements, reducing waste. They also contribute to a 72% decrease in carbon dioxide emissions in the industry due to fewer deliveries. Additionally, they save significant amounts of water—each arrangement conserves 7 to 13 liters weekly compared to fresh flowers.

By choosing STILLA, yachts not only enhance their luxury aesthetic but also align with sustainable practices, lowering waste and supporting eco-friendly operations. Enquire now to discover how STILLA’s preserved flowers can elevate your yacht’s sustainability with eternal floral beauty.

Step 4: Sustainable Materials

Sourcing eco-friendly supplies to support your operation is another alternative to shift towards sustainability. Using biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products, upcycling materials and objects onboard, and minimising packaging choices, are some of the many alternatives to protect the marine environment and reduce environmental impact.

Step 5: Train Crew Towards Sustainability

Sustainability starts with awareness and education. Fostering a green culture onboard with regular training, monitoring, and recognition will accelerate progress to reach a sustainable future in yachting.  

By following these five steps, eco-yachting becomes an intrinsic part of the industry. At STILLA, we not only preserve luxury yachting’s aesthetics in eternal flowers, but we drive change with a 360º sustainable approach. Join us in this revolution.