World Sailing has launched a landmark project to measure and reduce the environmental impact of all six Olympic-class boats.
The 12-month project will conduct comprehensive life-cycle assessments (LCA) to evaluate the boat’s footprint from production, use and end of life.
The findings will be used to inform future rules, technical standards and Olympic class selection, ensuring that environmental data is placed at the centre of World Sailing’s Olympic decision-making framework.
The work delivers on World Sailing’s Sustainability Agenda 2030 and its Olympic Vision, which commits the federation to incorporating sustainability into technical standards, equipment regulation and decisions aligned with International Olympic Committee priorities.
Environmental impact will be a key factor
From 2032, classes wanting Olympic inclusion will have to provide an independently verified LCA, making environmental impact a key factor alongside performance.
Methodology, tools and training for each class and manufacturer will be provided by life-cycle assessment tool MarineShift360 delivered by Marine Futures and supported by 11th Hour Racing.
“Sailing depends on a healthy ocean, and that gives us both a privilege and a duty to lead,” explained Alexandra Rickham, director of sustainability at World Sailing.
“This project provides the evidence we need to make smarter choices and shape the future of Olympic equipment.
“By working with our classes and manufacturers on a shared LCA framework, we can balance performance with environmental responsibility and help the whole sport move forward.”
This project provides the evidence we need to make smarter choices and shape the future of Olympic equipment.
Alexandra Rickham
As part of the project, data will be shared which World Sailing says will enable fairer, more transparent standards for manufacturers.
Any innovations at the top will also cascade through the wider marine industry influencing how recreational and youth boats are built worldwide.
Each class is expected to complete its assessment within three months, coordinated by World Sailing’s technical team.
Future phases will expand the assessment to cover complete Olympic campaigns, including equipment transport and athlete travel.
