Sector specific targets: Design

Generally, around 80% of an object’s lifetime impact is determined during its design phase and this holds true for yachts as well. This goes beyond the pure design work and includes contractual specifications and engineering outcomes. Key contributors include the hull and superstructure, interior and exterior material choices and quantities, engines, equipment, and more. This phase could therefore also be referred to as the “pre-build phase.”

With the large majority of yachts currently in build still being conventional, the tides are still not turning. Projects currently on the drawing board will therefore need to move away from conventional practices, minimize energy consumption from propulsion and the hotel load first and foremost.  The Yacht Environmental Transparency Index (YETI) is a result of a 5+ year joint industry project to setup a sector specific index to assess and compare yachts on their environmental operational credentials and to serve as decisions support system to optimise new build projects and upgrade existing yachts.

Hence the targets for new build projects to be developed to score below the current reference line. This might even lead to reconsideration of specified range and speeds to be more in tune with how yachts are actually being used. Only then alternative fuels, photovoltaics, wind assistance and other renewable energy sources become increasingly viable. 

For aesthetics and outfitting, targets around the use of alternative materials have been quantified. Eco-design should prioritise regenerative virgin materials or, where possible, recycled materials that can be recycled again at end-of-life. Since interiors typically do not last as long as the yacht itself, designing with future refits in mind is good practice. This approach helps minimise energy use and waste throughout the yacht’s lifecycle.