MarineShift360 Advances The Marine Industry’s Sustainable Future With Transformative New Initiatives

The MarineShift360 project is driving sustainable innovation with enhancements to its pioneering life-cycle assessment (LCA) tool and the introduction of an Industry Accelerator and a University Outreach Programme to advance the marine industry’s transition to net zero.

Led by Marine Futures and supported by 11th Hour Racing, MarineShift360 is designed to deliver measurable impact and fast-track decarbonisation across the sector.

With an estimated 80 percent of a product’s environmental impact determined in the design phase, the MarineShift360 tool helps businesses identify and address their impact hotspots early, reducing both their environmental footprint and operational costs through more efficient resource use.

“MarineShift360 is driving the marine industry from ambition to action,” said Ollie Taylor, Director at Marine Futures. “Our enhanced tool helps businesses meet their sustainability goals while ensuring all of us who love the ocean can continue enjoying it responsibly. The marine community has a duty to protect the ocean for future generations, and MarineShift360 is empowering the industry to make smarter choices today, so we can all enjoy the ocean tomorrow and beyond.”

Recognised with a prestigious DAME Design Category Award in 2022, the MarineShift360 tool has already been embraced by leaders such as North Sails, SailGP, IMOCA, Williams Tenders, and Starboard, positioning the company at the forefront of change within the industry. Over the last three years, the marine industry has seen significant adoption of the MarineShift360 tool, and now, with new initiatives, it aims to further accelerate progress.

Launching today, the Industry Accelerator offers selected companies free consultancy for one year to develop and scale sustainability projects that promise to support the industry’s transition to net zero. The Impact Accelerator programme now includes complimentary access to its LCA tool, alongside dedicated project management and access to the industry’s leading sustainability experts. The programme also includes a funded internship to help businesses implement sustainable solutions. Applications are open until December 31, 2024.

Complementing the Industry Accelerator is the University Outreach Programme, launching in 2025. In partnership with leading academic institutions, the programme will equip the next generation of sustainability leaders as they embark on careers in the marine industry. Students from undergraduate to PhD level will gain free access to the LCA tool, alongside dedicated training and support, connecting students to the tools and resources that will enable them to solve the industry’s largest environmental challenges.

Jeremy Pochman, Co-Founder and CEO at 11th Hour Racing, said: “By supporting Marine Futures on the MarineShift360 project, we’re empowering companies to become leaders in driving sustainability across the industry. It’s a powerful opportunity to create lasting change at a critical time for our planet.”

As regulatory frameworks tighten and consumer demand for sustainable solutions grows,  MarineShift360 provides essential tools and solutions to help manufacturers and suppliers stay ahead, enabling them to design energy-efficient boats, explore alternative propulsion systems like hybrid-electric and hydrogen, and adopt sustainable materials.

To sign up for the LCA tool or to apply for the Industry Accelerator, visit: www.marineshift360.org.