Boating Industry August 2023 | Page 15

BY FRANK HUGELMEYER

s recreational boating industry stakeholders , we understand the important role healthy waters play in boating and fishing , as well as our role as a leader in conservation efforts . We recognize the importance of sustainability and the crucial part it can play in promoting environmental and conservation efforts . In recent years , our industry has made significant strides towards more eco-friendly and sustainable practices , both in products and manufacturing .

It all begins with making some of the most durable and long-lasting consumer products anywhere . Recreational boats have an average useful life of anywhere from 25 to 45 years . And marine manufacturers are constantly innovating to make manufacturing processes and end-products cleaner . We ’ ve also made impressive advancements toward reducing emissions . As a result of those collective efforts , recreational marine accounts for 0.7 % of transportation CO2 emissions , and we consume about half of 1 % of the gasoline in the U . S .

Given the diversity of products and experiences we offer across recreational boating , there is no one-size-fits-all solution or approach towards reducing emissions . The diversity of boat types , operational cycles and unique energy requirements of recreational boats requires a portfolio of product offerings and technologies to address climate initiatives while meeting the performance needs and expectations of boating consumers .

Multiple marine propulsion technologies available today are laying the pathways to even greater sustainability and allow consumers to do their part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact . These include sustainable marine fuels , hybrid-electric propulsion systems , fully electric propulsion systems , advanced hull designs , advanced combustion , and efficiency management systems . Each of these exciting technologies allows consumers to choose products that meet their needs while preserving their boating experience .

We have also made great strides in minimizing the environmental impact of boat manufacturing . Many boat manufacturers employ sustainability experts and are adopting sustainable practices in their factories and supply chains . Companies are also working to reduce their carbon footprint through more efficient production and shipping methods . This translates to a lower environmental impact and reduced shipping emissions .

The boating industry is not only working to reduce its environmental impact in product use and manufacturing , but also in advocating and annually contributing hundreds of millions of dollars for marine conservation efforts . This can be seen in the support for marine protected areas ( MPAs ) - areas of the ocean that are designated for conservation and management . By promoting the creation of MPAs and supporting their management , the industry is helping to protect our most important marine ecosystems and the species that inhabit them .

Let ’ s also not forget that the recreational boating industry has long been ― and remains ― stewards of sustainability , focused on minimizing our carbon emissions . In addition to innovative technologies , the industry has :

Pioneered the very first on-water emissions sampling device to quantify greenhouse gas emissions from recreational boats and worked with the U . S . EPA to approve the test method .

Worked alongside the U . S . Department of Energy and Argonne National Laboratory to successfully test and approve next generation biobutanol fuels for use in recreational boats .

Implemented evaporative emissions controls on boat fuel tanks to significantly reduce emissions and improve the consumer experience .

Implemented the Clean Vessel Act which created pump-out stations for recreational boats .

Developed industry standards to minimize the spread of aquatic invasive species .

Led U . S . conservation efforts through the creation of states ’ Office of Outdoor Recreation , funding the Sport Fish and Restoration Trust Fund , and manufacturer led sustainability programs and initiatives .

We are also working as an industry to fundamentally understand the various pathways and technologies that will be required to further reduce our CO2 emissions through a comprehensive lifecycle assessment study . This study will be the most current and comprehensive of its kind for the recreational marine industry and will provide invaluable guidance to industry and policy makers .

Collectively , as an industry , let ’ s embrace our role in promoting environmental and conservation efforts . By adopting a variety of solutions , including sustainable technologies and promoting responsible boating practices , the industry is working to minimize its environmental impact and protect the natural resources upon which it relies .

With continued effort and innovation , we can ensure that recreational boating remains a sustainable and responsible activity for generations to come .

Frank Hugelmeyer is the president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association ( NMMA ) and co-founder of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable .

www . boatingindustry . com august 2023

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