8/7/2025
Exhibitors encouraged to lead the way in reducing environmental impact
The Southampton International Boat Show returns from 19–28 September 2025 with renewed focus on environmental responsibility.
As part of its continued commitment to sustainability, the show is taking bold new steps to support exhibitors in reducing their environmental impact and embedding sustainable practices into their show presence.
Central to this commitment are two key initiatives: the well-established Environmental Award, which continues to recognise outstanding sustainability efforts among exhibitors, and the launch of a NEW Carbon Offsetting Scheme for 2025. These initiatives build upon the principles set out in the show’s Environmental Charter, supporting the show’s journey towards a more sustainable future and encouraging the industry to take proactive, measurable steps in driving positive environmental change.
NEW Carbon Offsetting Scheme in partnership with Yacht Carbon Offset
The new voluntary carbon offsetting scheme, delivered in partnership with Yacht Carbon Offset, a leading environmental service company in the yachting sector, has been designed to enable exhibitors to quantify and offset the carbon footprint of their show participation including stand build, travel, and accommodation.
How it works:
The carbon offsetting scheme provides a simple way for exhibitors to take accountability for their carbon emissions. The data collected helps British Marine monitor the show’s overall footprint and allows exhibitors to benchmark and improve year-on-year”, explains Rachel Goult, Managing Director at Yacht Carbon Offset.
Why Carbon Offsetting?
Carbon offsetting is not a substitute for emission reduction, but a complementary step that allows organisations to take responsibility for the emissions they cannot yet eliminate.
All exhibitors are encouraged to take part in the Carbon Offsetting Scheme. However, for those who wish to enter the Environmental Award, participation in the scheme is mandatory.
Exhibitor Environmental Award: Recognising leadership in sustainability
The Environmental Award returns for 2025, celebrating exhibitors who go above and beyond in integrating sustainability into both their presence at the show and their wider business operations. The award highlights companies that lead by example — demonstrating innovation, accountability, and a genuine commitment to reducing their environmental impact.
To be eligible for the awards, exhibitors must:
Entrants will be judged on criteria such as:
This award celebrates those making real change — not just talking about sustainability, but embedding it into their business and show activities. We want to see exhibitors who take ownership of their environmental impact and showcase to the industry what’s possible”, explains Adam James, Technical Executive and Environmental Lead at British Marine, owners and operators of the Southampton International Boat Show.
The winner will be announced on Friday 19 September on the Boating Academy Stage at 16:00.
Environmental Charter – At the heart of the show
The Environmental Charter, launched six years ago, continues to underpin the show’s approach to sustainability, outlining what the show organisers are doing and what is expected of exhibitors.
All exhibitors are required to meet a set of mandatory environmental standards, including:
Jasmine Hill, Events Director at British Marine, comments: “The Southampton International Boat Show continues to lead by example. With carbon offsetting and our Environmental Award in place, we’re taking the next bold step in delivering a truly sustainable show — and we urge every exhibitor to be part of that journey.”
For Visitors
Visitors to the show can also expect informative talks, interactive exhibits, and educational activities from exhibitors, designed to promote sustainability awareness within the boating community. Plus, don’t forget to join us on Friday 19 September at the Boating Academy Stage at 16:00 when our 2025 Environmental Award winner will be revealed.
To learn more about the show’s sustainability programme, visit: www.southamptonboatshow.com/helping-the-environment
About Southampton International Boat Show
The Southampton International Boat Show is the UK’s largest boating and water sports festival, celebrating everything boating. Alongside hundreds of exhibitors and incredible boats and watercraft of all shapes and sizes, the show offers a unique blend of family entertainment, retail opportunities, and live music, making it an unmissable event in the marine calendar.
