During this year’s American Boating Congress in Washington, D.C., we took to the water to show — not just tell — how recreational boating is leading the way in innovation, environmental stewardship and responsible self-regulation.
In May, at the historic Washington Marina Company, we showcased what our industry stands for: forward-thinking innovation, responsible self-regulation and a commitment to environmental leadership. Our on-water technology demonstration, hosted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and our members, brought industry partners, congressional staff and administration officials to the docks for a firsthand look at how we are shaping the future of boating. We set an example for other industries to follow.
At the heart of our demonstration was a clear message: Recreational boating isn’t just responding to environmental and regulatory challenges. We are leading. From sustainable marine fuels and efficiency improvements to the latest safety technologies, the boats on display were a testament to the investments and ingenuity that define our industry.
Recreational boating is an iconic American industry and beloved pastime. Approximately 95% of boats sold in the United States are made in the United States, largely by small, family-owned businesses. The Washington Marina Company itself is a perfect example. Owned and operated by Bob Stickell, a third-generation business owner, the marina serves as a critical public access point to the Potomac River. It contracts with local and federal government agencies, supporting police, fire and rescue operations.
This kind of community-rooted business is not unique. Across the country, 36,000 marinas, repair shops and boatbuilders are the backbone of our $230 billion industry. They depend on clean, accessible waterways and stable infrastructure to thrive, and they’re innovating every day to ensure they do.
During the demonstration, attendees experienced the latest marine technology aboard several vessels. A 35-foot Scarab fueled by a sustainable marine fuel through a partnership with Suzuki Marine operated seamlessly. Participants learned that the drop-in fuel required no changes to the boat, engine or fueling system. These fuels deliver performance and range that’s equivalent to traditional options. Lower-emission alternatives are not just theoretical. They’re here.
Attendees also saw a revolutionary safety system designed to help boaters detect swimmers or marine life. Nearly two dozen marine companies collaborated through the Whale and Vessel Safety task force to enhance this technology, which was outfitted on a 23-foot Contender powered by a Yamaha outboard.
Also featured was a Boston Whaler with Mercury Marine’s joystick piloting, Seakeeper stabilization and Simrad electronics — technologies that enhance maneuverability, reduce seasickness, and make boating easier and more accessible, especially for new boaters.
Our industry has been leading in these areas for a long time. Since 2000, the recreational boating industry has reduced emissions from marine engines by more than 90% and increased fuel efficiency by over 40%. Today, recreational boats account for just 0.7% of transportation-related carbon dioxide emissions in the United States.
Still, despite our small footprint, we recognize that every industry must do its part to move toward an even cleaner future, particularly when considering global harmonization that is critical for our industry. We also know that recreational boating has unique needs. It requires a technology-neutral approach that recognizes the limitations of certain technologies for certain vessel types and use cases. Energy-dense liquid marine fuels — like sustainable biofuels and e-fuels — will play a critical role in America’s energy portfolio and will ensure long-term certainty for our uniquely American industry.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to further reducing recreational boating emissions. Research and innovation are part of our industry’s global initiative, Propelling Our Future, led by the International Council of Marine Industry Associations.
But innovation alone isn’t enough. We need global government partnerships to ensure that infrastructure and policies are in place to support widespread adoption of these solutions. That includes advancing legislation to prioritize the development and distribution of sustainable maritime fuels, launching a comprehensive Sustainable Maritime Fuel Grand Challenge to modernize aging marina fueling infrastructure, and expanding R&D investments in hydrogen propulsion, battery density and advanced fuel technologies.
At the same time, we must continue our collaborative industry efforts to ensure global harmonization of marine standards and regulations. It’s important that we work together in the NMMA technical committees, such as the NMMA’s Engine Manufacturers Division meeting, sustainable marine fuels task force, and the American Boat & Yacht Council technical committees, along with international committees such as ICOMIA or the Marine Engine Committee. We have had so many successes through the years, all a direct result of collaboration and camaraderie as an industry.
What makes recreational boating truly unique is our industry’s culture of responsibility. We don’t wait for regulation to act. We identify solutions, invest in innovation, and work collaboratively — often voluntarily — to protect the waters we depend on. The WAVS initiative is a clear example of this ethos, as is our investment in sustainable-fuel research, the Propelling our Future decarbonization report and public education.
As we were out on the waters of the Potomac showcasing our industry’s accomplishments, it was clear that our demonstration was a call to action. We need lawmakers to recognize the recreational marine industry as a valuable partner in solving today’s energy and environmental challenges.
If you couldn’t make it to the event, I encourage you to visit PropellingOurFuture.com to learn more about the latest research and technologies, and the collective global industry action underway to secure a more sustainable future for boating.
We are proud of the progress we’ve made and even more excited for what comes next.
Jeff Wasil is vice president, environmental compliance and marine technology, for the National Marine Manufacturers Association.
