Recreational craft are to be included in the European Union’s transport investment strategy for the first time.
The move has been welcomed by the European Boating Industry (EBI) which calls it a ‘groundbreaking moment for Europe’s boating industry’.
The EBI says the incorproation of recreational craft in the European Commission’s Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) marks a historic milestone that recognises the sector’s importance in Europe’s green transition and maritime industry.
Green transition
“For the first time, recreational boating is part of the EU’s waterborne decarbonisation strategy,” said Philip Easthill, secretary-general of EBI.
“It shows that our sector is being heard and recognised as a relevant contributor to Europe’s green transition with a technology-neutral decarbonisation pathway and necessary focus on the existing fleet and sustainable fuels.”
He continued: “This recognition puts the recreational boating sector firmly on the map of support by the EU in the years ahead.
“It sends a clear signal that sustainability in fuels and propulsion system as well as infrastructure in marinas is a key part of Europe’s industrial strategies.”
This recognition puts the recreational boating sector firmly on the map of support by the EU in the years ahead.
Philip Easthill
The inclusion of recreational boating comes after EBI engagement with the EU Commission on the importance of alternative fuel and infrastructure for the boating industry.
The STIP states that possible alternatives to fossil fuels are being considered for recreational craft and that recreational craft experience a low pace of penetration of new vessels.
The plan also mobilises €2.9 billion in EU support by 2027 and aims to leverage more than €100 billion in total investment by 2035, with openings for projects in sustainable fuels, electric and hybrid technologies, and marina infrastructure.
Support for marina infrastructure
The plan also incorporates support for sustainable fuels and infrastructure in marinas with the Commission set to explore certification schemes, fuel traceability, and book-and-claim systems to support smaller operators and promote renewable fuels across all vessel types.
The EBI believes these frameworks will be essential to advance clean technologies, develop sustainable marina infrastructure to have a comprehensive framework for decarbonisation and strengthen Europe’s leadership in sustainability and innovation.
