EBI partnered with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, thus strengthening its action for environmental and economic sustainability and its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. As a partner to the high-level initiative, EBI leads the environmental engagement of the European recreational boating industry.

The United Nations has proclaimed 2021-2030 as the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development to draw attention to the role of ocean health and bring together stakeholders for sustainable development. “EBI is a strong supporter of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and we are delighted to now be a partner of the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Engagement with the various branches of ocean science is key to develop policy at European level that is geared towards sustainability”, EBI President Jean-Pierre Goudant declared.

The EBI Council committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), among which “Decent Work and Economic Growth”, “Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure” and “Life Below Water” are key areas for the recreational boating industry. “Our industry promotes clean and healthy oceans and we are engaged to achieve economic and environmental sustainability. It is a transition that requires strong support by policy-makers at European, regional and national level. We look forward to working together for these goals within the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development”, commented Philip Easthill, Secretary General of EBI.

More about the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development can be found here.

Navigating a Changing Climate Partnership

EBI also became an official supporter of PIANC’s Navigating a Changing Climate Partnership. Participants have committed to work together to support the inland and maritime navigation infrastructure sector in their response to climate change. Activities aim at furthering understanding, providing technical support, and capacity building to 1) Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and shift to low carbon maritime and inland navigation infrastructure and 2) strengthen resilience and improve preparedness to adapt to the changing climate.

EBI will be participating to support the further development of environmental sustainability and climate change adaptation policy in the European recreational boating sector.

PIANC is the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure. PIANC members include Governments, corporate members, public and private sector organisations and, individuals from 65 countries around the world.

More about the partnership can be found here.