Five years ago, Feadship sparked discussions among industry stakeholders with an innovative concept: the Yacht Environmental Transparency Index (YETI). Now, after extensive collaboration, the initiative is on the brink of becoming an ISO standard.
Originating from a brainstorm by Bram Jongepier, Feadship Senior Specialist Design, YETI offers a science-based approach to evaluate yachts' environmental impact using fleet AIS data. "Sustainability is essential," emphasizes Jan-Bart Verkuyl, Feadship Director/CEO of Royal Van Lent Shipyard. "There is pressure from our clients, from ourselves, from our workers, and from our children. It needs to be done."
YETI's progress was unveiled at METSTRADE in 2022, with an improved version, YETI 2.0, introduced a year later. This iteration enhances the protocol, addressing factors like fleet reviews and standardized load balance to minimize energy consumption.
"We are eager to learn and act," Jongepier affirms. "Zero impact is impossible, but we can be sustainable, treating our oceans with care."
Feadship's 2020-2030 strategy aims for net-zero CO2 emissions and minimal pollution. The 84.20-meter Obsidian achieved net-zero CO2 in 2023, while concept designs like Dunes aim for a 95% reduction in environmental impact.
Henk de Vries, Feadship Director/CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw, stresses the importance of appealing to future generations: "We not only have to appeal to current customers but also to their children and the ones asking uncomfortable questions."
Jongepier expresses gratitude for industry collaboration, noting YETI's evolution towards a standardized rating system. "The method is being consolidated," he states, "and I'm proud of the work of the YETI industry group."
Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.
Credits: Feadship