Environment & Sustainability
The RYA recognises that the protection of the environment is an integral part of our business. We believe that environmental damage is avoidable so will do everything reasonably practicable to prevent
RYA Environmental Policy
The RYA’s Environmental Policy highlights the Association’s commitment to complying with applicable environmental legislation, preventing pollution, identifying and minimising risks to the environment posed by RYA organised events and ensuring its continued improvement in performance. Read the policy statement here: RYA Environmental Policy Statement
Sustainability Strategy
The RYA launched its Sustainability Strategy in July 2020. The Strategy seeks to address key international concerns about the environment, along with wider sustainability issues such as labour rights and anti-corruption. It contains an initial action plan for delivery over the next 12-18 months and targets 2030 to achieve our goals.
The strategy is available at the following links:
Pathways to zero
The RYA published its Carbon Pathway to Zero document in July 2021. This ambitious document outlines the RYA's vision for a zero carbon recreational boating sector by 2050. The Carbon Pathway to Zero is available at the following links:
RYA Carbon Pathway to Zero - Summary RYA Carbon Pathway to Zero - Background PaperThe UN Global Compact
The RYA is a signatory to the UN Global Compact. The Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, with businesses around the globe signing up to Ten Principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. As part of its pledge the RYA will be making the Compact principles part of its strategy, culture and day-to-day operations and will take the necessary actions to advance the broader Sustainable Development Goals. Read our latest Communication on Progress here.
For more information about the initiative please visit the Global Compact website: United Nations Global Compact – Sustainable Development Goals
Environmental Advice
For more advice and information about environmental issues that affect your boating, from marine protected areas to environmentally friendly moorings visit theFor more advice and information about environmental issues that affect your boating, from marine protected areas to environmentally friendly moorings visit the Sustainability Hub.
Contact Us
For more information, feedback or questions please email a member of the Planning & Sustainability Team on:
RYA advice and guidance on sustainable boating best practice and environmental issues.
Advice and information on how the RYA supports members and affiliates with planning and licensing issues, and how we respond to marine licence applications.
The RYA’s Environmental Policy highlights the Association’s commitment to complying with applicable environmental legislation, preventing pollution, identifying and minimising risks to the environment posed by RYA organised events and ensuring its continued improvement in performance.
The RYA launched its Sustainability Strategy in July 2020. The Strategy seeks to address key international concerns about the environment, along with wider sustainability issues such as labour rights and anti-corruption. It contains an initial action plan for delivery over the next 12-18 months and targets 2030 to achieve our goals.
The Green Blue is the joint environmental awareness programme of the Royal Yachting Association and British Marine. The programme works to promote the sustainable use of coastal and inland waters by boating and watersports participants, as well as the sustainable operation and development of the recreational boating industry.
Find out more on The Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact.