by Awwal Idris | 7 Mar 2025 | Insights
Author: Awwal Idris, Environmental Expert at Water Revolution Foundation
Update as of 18 April 2025
On 3 April 2025, the European Parliament approved the first part of the EU Omnibus Package, voting by a large majority to delay the application of new corporate sustainability reporting (CSRD) and due diligence (CSDDD) requirements. This “Stop-the-Clock” directive postpones CSRD reporting for the second and third wave of companies by two years, and delays the due diligence obligations under CSDDD by one year. The directive now requires formal publication and must be transposed by EU member states into national law by 31 December 2025. The focus will now shift to the second stage of the Omnibus Package, which aims to further simplify and revise the scope and content of sustainability reporting rules.
The EU sustainability regulations strongly revised in 2025
The European Commission (EC) is scaling back sustainability reporting rules with two new proposals: Omnibus Simplification Package I and II, focusing on sustainability regulations for businesses in the European Union. With these proposed amendments, fewer companies will need to report under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) — 80% fewer, to be exact. The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) is also being relaxed. Now, companies only need to monitor direct suppliers instead of their full supply chain, and checks will happen every five years instead of annually. These and many other changes made to the original reporting rules are yet to be presented before the EU parliament for further review and negotiations.
Short summary of the proposed amendments
Deadlines have been pushed back:
- Large EU companies now report in 2028 instead of 2026. Previously, the CSRD applied to companies with 250+ employees, but now only those with over 1,000 employees – with either a turnover of above €50 million or assets of € 25 million – are required to comply. Companies with 500-999 employees are now excluded from mandatory reporting.
- Listed SMEs also get an extension, with mandatory first reports now due in 2028 (FY 2027). The new deregulation completely removes them from mandatory reporting after that, meaning they will not have to report at all unless they choose to opt in voluntarily.
- Some due diligence rules under CSDDD have been delayed by a year. EU Companies with 5,000+ employees and €1.5 billion turnover will now comply from July 2028 instead of 2027. Those with 3,000+ employees and €900 million+ turnover will start in 2029 instead of 2028. The timeline for other in-scope companies is unclear but if the pattern holds, it could be pushed to 2030. Under the new deregulated rules, the CSDDD, which would have originally applied to almost 50,000 EU companies, will now only apply to around 6,000 large EU companies and some 900 non-EU companies.
- For non-EU companies, the reporting deadline remains: under the CSRD, non-EU parent companies with a large EU branch or subsidiary must report in 2029 based on their activities in 2028. Under the original regulation, this applies if the whole group turn over €150 million or more in the EU. The new rules would raise this threshold to €450 million, so fewer companies would need to report. There is no 1,000-employee rule for EU branches or subsidiaries of non-EU companies. Instead, EU turnover is the main factor because most employees of non-EU companies work outside the EU.
The EC expects these changes to reduce administrative burdens by 25% overall and by 35% for SMEs by the end of its mandate, enabling competitiveness for EU companies and simplify investment programs.
What This Means for Yachting and EU-based Marine Industry
For the European-based superyacht industry, this will mean less pressure to comply… or an opportunity to redirect our efforts from compliance to solving the true issue: the industry should look beyond regulations to drive progress. Climate change and environmental degradation remain existential threats to Europe and the world, and deregulations do not change the scientific reality. The need to reduce environmental impact has not disappeared, and businesses will still need to track progress, set targets and work toward long-term climate neutrality by 2050, whether they are in scope of reporting or not.
Opportunity for an own target-oriented approach
Water Revolution Foundation thus calls on the industry to be pro-active and lead the way towards better future business. This opportunity to define a common goal is the basis of our cooperative Roadmap 2050, driving companies, stakeholders, and organizations to take collective responsibility towards net-zero environmental impact in the superyacht sector by 2050. At the same time, the roadmap aims to also promote the regenerative approach—going beyond reducing harm to creating a positive environmental impact. As regulations loosen, this roadmap becomes ever important as a guide to help the industry meet its targets.
Beyond compliance, these new changes create an opening for self-regulations and industry-led standards. A long-standing complaint in the yachting industry has been that regulation doesn’t account for yachting’s unique characteristics: now with less regulatory pressure, the industry can take charge, setting its own sustainability benchmarks that truly reflect its needs. Instead of waiting for restrictive policies, when these are weak or evolving, scientific data and best practices become the guideposts towards ensuring credibility and competitiveness in a market that increasingly values transparent sustainability. To stay ahead, companies should collaborate to:
- Develop and rely on best sustainability science and practice to ensure meaningful progress
- Engage with industry groups to create shared standards that suit yachting while meeting or surpassing global environmental expectation
- Leverage independent review mechanisms that make sure sustainability claims and investments are credible and actually contribute to positive environmental change.
Staying Ahead
A future tightening of rules is probable if we are to meet the climate targets and environmental ambitions set by 2050. These deregulation actions by the EU may reinforce the perception that sustainability reporting is an administrative burden and overhead cost for businesses, but those able to prioritize environmental responsibility see real benefits:
- Lower risk and better efficiency over time: compliance takes effort at first, but costs drop as businesses improve their systems
- Stronger trust from investors and customers
- Future-proofing against new regulations and market shifts.
Future-proof yachting depends on sustainability
Looking at sustainability as just a regulatory headache is short-sighted – beyond rules, it’s a growing demand from clients, investors, and the industry itself. Clients, especially the new generation cohorts expect more eco-friendly options, and voluntary sustainability efforts can boost reputation and business appeal. Furthermore, a generational shift is also underway—those poised to take over key roles in the industry are far more committed to sustainability and will likely remain engaged in yachting only if environmental responsibility is embedded in its core values. If the industry hopes to attract and retain the next generation of talent, regressing on sustainability efforts is not the way forward. Instead embedding sustainability into the core of the industry will ensure its long-term relevance and vitality in a changing world.
Don’t Wait—Lead
The yachting industry has a unique opportunity to lead by example, proving that economic strength and sustainability go hand in hand. If simplification is pursued purely as means to reduce compliance costs, there is a risk of weakening any needed and essential sustainability progress and/or innovations that can drive accountability and long-term industry resilience. Sustainability isn’t just about ticking boxes – it improves decision-making and competitiveness, and overall protection of the environment our industry depends on. Thus the industry should not look to only comply with regulations: they should lead and define the future of the industry.
Click here for the official European Commission article.
by Water Revolution Foundation | 26 Sep 2024 | Press Releases
Unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show, the latest edition of the Designers’ Protocol sets a new standard for environmental yacht design, offering actionable principles and detailed recommendations for every new yacht project.
The result of a collective initiative spearheaded by Dickie Bannenberg of Bannenberg & Rowell Design in collaboration with Water Revolution Foundation’s Sustainable Yacht Design Taskforce, this new and improved document outlines critical considerations for yacht owners and designers alike, emphasising the importance of making environmentally-conscious choices from the initial phase of design.
Industry expert perspectives
A panel discussion between participating yacht designers, naval architects, and industry professionals took place to offer insights into their contributions within the Protocol. Moderated by Francesca Webster, Editor in Chief of SuperYacht Times, representatives on the panel included Dan Wupperman, Head of Group Initial Design at Espen Oeino International, Tanno Weeda, Head of Design at De Voogt Naval Architects, and Matthew Anzardo, Global Segment Lead at AkzoNobel. The discussion highlighted that yacht design demands a collaborative effort, where designers, naval architects, and suppliers must join forces to address challenges and merge their unique expertise.
By emphasising holistic design, energy efficiency, and innovation within the Protocol, the industry can advance toward environmental sustainability: “We need to make clients aware of what is possible in a comprehensive way and move forward accordingly together. Those who don’t join us will be left behind,” Weeda remarked.
Clear recommendations across nine key areas
The document covers nine key subjects associated with yacht design, offering both broad and specific recommendations. It begins with general guidance on the Life Cycle Approach, operational profiles, and energy sources, before delving into more detailed considerations such as hotel load and A/C systems, glazing treatments, and hull colour. Contributions from industry leaders including AkzoNobel, Bannenberg & Rowell Design, De Voogt Naval Architects, Espen Oeino International, Eckersley O’Callaghan, RWD, and Viken Group have shaped this comprehensive guide.
Designers as key drivers of change
Yacht designers hold a unique responsibility in guiding clients toward more sustainable choices. As one of the first points of contact, they are uniquely positioned to influence decisions that can lead to the development of eco-friendlier yachts. The Protocol empowers designers with practical knowledge that enable them to advocate for and ensure that environmental responsibility is embedded in every new project from the outset.
“In general, most clients have been engaged by the ideas within the Protocol,” Wupperman mentioned. “While some were initially uninterested, once we start demonstrating the benefits and taking them through the process step by step, it opens the door to conversations. We bring in the ideas, engage the shipyard, and ultimately convince the client to do a little bit more.”
A unified effort
The Designers’ Protocol represents a collaborative effort across various sectors of the yachting industry, bringing together the expertise of suppliers, naval architects, engineers, and design studios. This cross-industry cooperation of pooled knowledge and expertise represents a crucial united vision for advancing environmental responsibility in yachting. “It’s not one magic bullet – the whole industry must work together to make yachting more sustainable,” said Anzardo. Summing it up, Wupperman added, “The Protocol’s aim is to bring all designers together to solve many different challenges collectively – not just one project. And it’s been a lot of fun getting to know other companies and their perspectives as we all work towards the same goal.”
Access the protocol here.
by Water Revolution Foundation | 25 Sep 2024 | Press Releases
Water Revolution Foundation and Seastainable Yachting are proud to announce the launch of Version 2 of the Environmental Crew Guidelines at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show. The updated edition builds upon the success of the inaugural version, offering an enhanced toolkit to support the yachting industry’s transition towards more environmentally-friendly operations.
The Environmental Crew Guidelines represent a significant step forward in the collective effort to reduce the environmental impact of the global superyacht fleet. These enhanced guidelines, developed for and by crew, now provide more practical and actionable advice for implementing better practices across all facets of onboard operations.
Enhanced usability and updated content
The updated version reflects feedback from valued industry supporters and crew members after implementing practices highlighted in the first version of the guidelines onboard. Improved usability was an essential element of development, therefore this version has been restructured and reformatted while made more concise for easier comprehension.
Alongside the restructuring, visual aids in the form of infographics have been created for crew to utilise more interactive resources when following the guidelines. Further information outlining the latest environmental practices has also been included within the content.
Robert van Tol, executive director of the Water Revolution Foundation, says: “The overwhelmingly positive response to the first version of the guidelines demonstrated the yachting industry’s commitment to sustainability. With Version 2, we’re providing crews with even more tools and knowledge to make a real difference in their daily operations.”
Collaboration at the core
In light of this new launch, the team behind the guidelines emphasise that, like in the first version, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to making positive change. These guidelines are not a prescriptive way of doing things onboard but a free, open-to-all resource to help provide direction and drive momentum to make positive changes. Feedback is once again continually welcomed; this iterative approach ensures the resource remains relevant, practical and effective in driving sustainable practices.
The element of collaboration continues to be a strong driving force, with many industry professionals eager to be involved. Water Revolution Foundation has embraced this through its integration with the Seastainable Yachting platform and community, which is a non-profit, purpose-driven platform to help guide the industry toward more environmentally-friendly operational practices. The Seastainable Yachting platform will facilitate all information and resources associated with these guidelines, establishing a central hub for crew and industry professionals looking to collaborate.
Continued support
The guidelines, initiated by MB92, continue to be supported by industry leaders, including Amico & Co., S/Y Black Pearl, Burgess, Da Gama Maritime, Damen Yachting, Divergent Yachting, Feadship, Fraser, Heesen Yachts, Lürssen Yachts, Northrop & Johnson, Oceanco, Pantaenius, Safe Harbor Marinas, Sanlorenzo, Monaco Yacht Show, M/Y Savannah, Superyacht Services Guide, The Crew Network, The OM, Virtual Pursers, Y.CO and YPI Crew, all underscoring the industry’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Download today
Version 2 of the Environmental Crew Guidelines is now available for free download, reflecting the initiative’s collaborative spirit. Yacht crews, management companies, and industry professionals are encouraged to implement these guidelines and contribute to the ongoing development of environmental operational practices in yachting.
If you have further questions, want to share feedback or actively contribute to the ongoing development of the guidelines, get in touch with us at ecocrew@waterrevolutionfoundation.org.
Access the guidelines.
by Water Revolution Foundation | 7 Feb 2024 | Press Releases
Version 1 of the Environmental Crew Guidelines has officially been launched, marking a pivotal moment in steering the yachting fleet toward more sustainable practices. This comprehensive guide, highlighting best practices written for-and-by crew, offers information and inspiration for eco-friendlier behaviour onboard yachts.
As a collaborative effort between Water Revolution Foundation, initiator MB92, and creator Danella Hopkins (formerly of S/Y Black Pearl), this free and open-source tool offers 24 distinct sections providing crews with a detailed, holistic overview of how to adopt more conscious practices into their daily routines. Contributions from industry experts and crew members alike have ensured that a diverse range of perspectives and experiences are included. As a first version, the aim is to collect feedback and additional best practices from crew to expand on the content and launch a Version 2 in the future.
Powered by industry leaders
To ensure the widespread adoption of these guidelines and enable a united, coordinated action, industry trailblazers MB92, Burgess, Damen Yachting, Divergent Yachting, Feadship, Fraser Yachts, Heesen Yachts, Lürssen, Oceanco, Safe Harbor Marinas, Sanlorenzo, The Crew Network, The OM, Virtual Pursers, Y.CO, and YPI Crew have pledged their commitment as official supporting companies. S/Y Black Pearl and MY Savannah have also come onboard as ambassadors within the fleet. The dedication of these organisations distinguishes them as true change agents, guiding the way forward for a more eco-friendly yachting sector.
”These clear guidelines are applicable to every size and type of yacht operation and by sharing them with our crews as part of our fleetwide sustainability efforts, we hope to provide a strong foundation for better onboard environmental practices and show that any yacht, regardless of its size or build, can make a big difference in little ways,” shares yacht management company Y.CO.
Addressing yachting’s environmental impact
While many technical and digital solutions have already been introduced to drive the superyacht industry’s energy transition, these developments address only one facet of the challenge. A transition in onboard practices is also crucial: “There are immediate actions that crew can take on board to introduce more environmentally-friendly practices, which can significantly reduce emissions (by up to 30%), whether by optimising temperature settings, making slight adjustments to cruising speeds or employing effective resource management,” says MB92.
Therefore, this initiative will provide crew with an extensive knowledge base and practical tools in order to foster a concrete shift toward sustainable superyacht operations.
Inside the guidelines
Organised under three overarching themes – ‘Onboarding Guidelines,’ ‘General Guidelines,’ and ‘Departmental Guidelines’ – this document caters to crew at every level. The onboarding guidelines emphasise ways in which crew can cultivate an environmental mindset and commit to improved operational practices. Fundamental principles and standards applicable to all crew members in their daily tasks are outlined in the general guidelines, while the departmental guidelines delve deeper, addressing the unique needs and individual responsibilities of each department. “We understand that environmental sustainability can be challenging to accomplish onboard and there is no one-size-fits-all approach,” states Executive Director of Water Revolution Foundation, Robert van Tol. “By working together with crew, we hope to inspire and facilitate this powerful group to minimise their yacht’s daily footprint where possible.”
To ensure proper enforcement onboard, the guidelines introduce the nomination of an “Eco-Sustainability Ambassador” (ESA). This dedicated crew member will collaborate with Heads of Departments (HODs) to streamline processes and drive the implementation of initiatives by supporting crew, monitoring progress, and reporting achievements.
“Our industry can collectively create lasting change in its outlook and operations by working together, and these guidelines will help yacht crews and shoreside management teams reduce their environmental impact through improved efficiency and better practices,” states Burgess. “When passionate individuals are given the chance to do the work they believe in, good things can happen, and in this way, we are committed to building a more environmentally aware and responsible industry.”
Download now
In the spirit of collaboration and unity, we invite you to join the movement aimed at achieving a substantial accumulated reduction in the environmental impact of the 5,500 30m+ fleet through behavioural shifts and the sharing of best practices. To maximise positive impact among crews and vessels across the globe, you are encouraged to read, implement, and distribute the Environmental Crew Guidelines.
The continued support of companies in the yachting industry is essential to foster industry-wide adoption of the guidelines and establish a minimum standard. Those who come onboard will gain recognition, obtain individual chapters upon request, receive a Supporter Stamp to signify commitment, and have the opportunity to share feedback and additional best practices, actively contributing to the ongoing development of the document. Get in touch with us at ecocrew@waterrevolutionfoundation.org to express your interest.
Access the guidelines.
by Water Revolution Foundation | 28 Sep 2023 | Press Releases
The Designers’ Protocol was launched at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show to present the industry with a standardised document aiming to provide designers with guiding sustainability principles.
This collaborative effort, initiated by Dickie Bannenberg of Bannenberg & Rowell Design and co-created with Water Revolution Foundation’s Sustainable Yacht Design Taskforce, aims to inspire the broader yachting community and set out high-level issues for clients to consider when planning a new build.
A roundtable discussion between top yacht designers and naval architects took place to share insights on the protocol and emphasise the importance of industry collaboration for achieving a sustainable future. Representatives on the panel included founder of Bannenberg & Rowell, Dickie Bannenberg; Philippe Briand, founder of Vitruvius Yachts; owner of Espen Oeino International, Espen Oeino; and Robert van Tol, Executive Director of Water Revolution Foundation. Editor in Chief at Superyacht Times, Francesca Webster, hosted and moderated the session.
INFLUENCES
The protocol has been developed based on the acronym ‘INFLUENCES,’ where each letter outlines different opportunities and aspects of various sustainable design principles. There are 10 primary topics of interest, including operational profile, hotel load, decking solutions and more. The document contains concrete, visible output provided by the valued members of the Design Taskforce, which was initiated at the 2021 edition of Monaco Yacht Show.
“Yacht- designers and naval architects are, in many cases, the initial point of contact with clients wishing to build or refit a yacht. As such, they have considerable influence on steering their clients towards responsible decisions. The INFLUENCES protocol sets this section of our industry on a clearer path to informing and guiding,” shared Bannenberg when asked about the importance of such a document for the industry.
Eco-friendly approach to yacht design
As it becomes increasingly crucial to reduce yachting’s environmental impact, this initiative takes a significant step forward by promoting responsible and sustainable practices: “Designers are setting the precedent for expectations across the entire industry,” remarked Oeino. “This protocol should be compulsory as part of any client presentation so that we can instigate that dialogue and trigger a very healthy discussion surrounding sustainable design.”
Industry collaboration
This initiative stands as a testament to the industry’s commitment to harnessing collective expertise and experience, transcending individual interests for the greater good of achieving sustainability in yacht design. Collaboration is key in order to take coordinated, constructive, and significant steps forward. Through a joint effort, the field’s leading players are uniting to chart a course towards a more environmentally conscious yachting industry. “We must group our efforts to progress toward a solution. This protocol represents the first time we can show that, as naval architects and designers, we are on the same page regarding this challenge of sustainability,” offered Briand.
Dickie Bannenberg also emphasised the importance of industry cooperation for this endeavour: “With a subject as broad – and often ambiguous – as sustainability, collaboration can be a powerful tool. There are several valuable and important initiatives within the yachting industry concerning the health of the oceans, from pathways to alternative fuels, but the Designers’ Protocol is, I believe, the first to connect designers and naval architects behind a united message.”
Next steps
“It’s all about sharing experience and data through broad collaboration. It’s not just a great initiative – it is indispensable that we do it. We must do it for the future of our industry, clients, and children. We encourage everyone to actively take part in this,” offered Oeino as a final thought.
You may access the protocol here.
