A pioneering collaboration to enable circularity in boat production has been launched in Western France.
The collaboration involves six companies that have joined together to enable more boats to be built using recycled materials, providing a model for composite sustainability.
The aim of the collaboration is to reduce the environmental impact and encourage circular manufacturing not only for boatbuilding but also for other industries including automotive, aerospace, wind energy, and construction.
The companies involved are Groupe Beneteau, manufacturer of sailing and motorboats, waste management and environmental services Veolia, recycler of composite waste Composite Recycling, speciality materials company Arkema, glass reinforcements company Owens Corning, and technical textiles and composite reinforcement company Chomarat.
The project will divert waste from landfills and conserve resources, reducing CO2 emissions.
“This isn’t just about sustainable boatbuilding — it’s a proof of concept for every industry that uses composites,” said Guillaume Perben, co-founder of Composite Recycling.
This isn’t just about sustainable boatbuilding — it’s a proof of concept for every industry that uses composites.
Guillaume Perben
As part of the circular process, Group Beneteau will incorporate recyclable composite materials, including Arkema’s Elium resin, into its boat manufacturing.
“Elium resin was designed to make composites recyclable, and this initiative showcases how it works at scale,” added Guillaume.
“By combining Elium resin with innovative recycling technologies, we’re laying the foundation for a circular economy in composites.”
“This collective approach is a decisive step in our commitment to accessible and sustainable boating.”
Vincent Cholvy, head of glass composites at Chomarat, added: “This project showcases how recycled fibers can be seamlessly reintegrated into new high-quality materials, helping industries move toward circularity.
“We have entered a new era where products are made recyclable by design, and this powerful collaboration is a prime example.”
Currently Beneteau’s Jeanneau Sun Fast 30 One Design models and the Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 60 are manufactured using recycled materials with further models planned, illustrating that circular manufacturing in the nautical sector is a tangible reality.
