PROJECT 1 – CLEAN SEAS PROGRAM
Sunsetting Yachts – the End of Life (EoL) Problem
Over the last 50 years, millions of fiberglass (GRP) yachts were built worldwide. These vessels do not biodegrade, are extremely difficult to recycle, and often cost far more to dismantle than they are worth. As a result, thousands are now:
• abandoned in marinas
• sinking in mooring fields
• left on beaches, rivers and ports
• sold for €1 to avoid disposal
• quietly stripped and dumped
The problem is accelerating rapidly as the large production boom of the 1970s–2000s reaches end-of-life.
Global Impact
This issue is why initiatives like SailingMiles EoL Disposal Rewards and the World Sailing Day Clean Seas Program are so important.
end of life yachts
Why this matters
- GRP hulls fragment into microplastics
- Abandoned boats leak oil, batteries and toxins
- Marinas struggle with unpaid fees and storage
- Many Governments lack clear policies
- The problem is global, not local
Sustainability Threat # 1
The EoL crisis is the single greatest long-term sustainability threat to sailing.
Sea the Future
Be part of the solution
Without a coordinated solution involving recycling technologies, financial incentives, legislation, and industry cooperation the problem will overwhelm marinas, coastlines, and local authorities.
SailingMiles and World Saiiling Day are in the process of establishing a global rewards program, the SailingMiles EoL Disposal Rewards to facilitate and promote the responsible disposal of all kinds of vessels.
