The founders of the Superyacht Eco Association, Bernard d’Alessandri and Michel Buffat, have announced the launch of the next phase of the SEA Index program during the Monaco Yacht Show 2021.
First launched in 2020 at the Yacht Club de Monaco, the SEA Index is a tool that helps superyacht owners see a snapshot of the energy efficiency of their vessel by assessing the CO2 emissions per gross ton and passenger onmotor yachts over 40 metres LOA. The formula which is used by the SEA Index is based on the calculations used by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for the shipping industry.
Following the success of the pioneering first phase, the second phase will add more parameters to extend the scope and accuracy of the tool. Created in collaboration with Lloyd’s Register, SEA Index Phase II now considers propulsion systems and alternative fuels as well as the typical operating profile of a yacht, which includes taking into account cruising speeds and time spent in berth or at anchor.
Superyacht Eco Association co-founder Michel Buffat commented: "With growing awareness of the need to reduce fuel consumption, more and more owners are choosing yachts with hybrid propulsion and optimised auxiliary power systems. Supported by the engineers of Lloyd’s Register, we have further developed the SEA index so that it now also rates advanced yacht designs with great accuracy.”
“We are very proud of the result and the progress the industry is making towards ever more sustainable yachting,” added Buffat.
At the same time as launching the SEA Index Phase II, the founders also announceda new membership category for the Superyacht Eco Association. Named ‘Friends of the SEA Index’ the membership is designed for individuals and entities who do not own a SEA Index rated yacht, but who nevertheless adhere to the Association’s principles and values.
“The community of superyachts who belong to the Superyacht Eco Association and have already undergone Phase II of the SEA Index, continues to grow. We have also recently witnessed clear indicators pointing towards more sustainable choices made by superyacht owners,“ commented Association co-founder Bernard d’Alessandri.
“We trust that the launch of Phase II of the SEA Index and the launch of the ‘Friends of the SEA Index’ membership category, will really help drive sustainable thinking in the superyacht world,” he added.