Creating a Cleaner, Greener Show – Together
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.
The carbon offsetting scheme provides a simple way for exhibitors to take accountability for their carbon emissions.
Rachel Goult, Managing Director, Yacht Carbon OffsetNEW FOR 2025: 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:
- All exhibitors are invited to opt into the scheme via the Exhibitor Manual
- A fee is charged based on stand size or number of berths:
£1.10 per sqm of stand space (includes admin fee). For example for a 4x4 metre stand the carbon offsetting cost would be £17.60
£28.60 per marina berth (includes admin fee). For example for 3 berths the carbon offsetting cost would be £85.80
- Exhibitors provide basic travel and accommodation details via a short questionnaire (enabling British Marine and the Southampton International Boat Show to begin collecting important carbon footprint data about the show)
- Proceeds from the carbon offset scheme will support a reputable carbon reduction project in a developing country, carefully selected by British Marine in conjunction with Yacht Carbon Offset.
Carbon offsetting isn’t a replacement for reducing emissions — it’s a meaningful step towards taking full responsibility while we transition to net zero.
Exhibitor Environmental Award - Celebrating Sustainable Leadership in the Marine Industry
We’re calling on exhibitors to lead by example and showcase their commitment to the environment by entering the 2025 Exhibitor Environmental Award.
Taking place on Friday 19 September at 16:00 on the Boating Academy Stage, the award honours exhibitors who embed sustainability into their show presence and wider operations.
To be eligible for the awards, exhibitors must:
- Demonstrate sustainability initiatives that exceed the baseline requirements of the Environmental Charter, both on-site at the show and within their ongoing business practices.
- Sign up to the show’s new Carbon Offsetting Scheme
- Complete the online application via the Exhibitor Manual by 29 August 2025
Entrants will be judged on criteria such as:
- Waste and resource management
- Stand design and reusability
- Low-impact logistics and transport
- Community and environmental engagement
This award celebrates those making real change, not just talking about sustainability, but embedding it into their business and show activities.
Adam James, Technical Executive and Environmental Lead, British Marine
Environmental Charter: Setting the Standard
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 expected to meet mandatory environmental requirements, including:
- Eliminating single-use plastics (e.g. straws, cable ties, water bottles)
- Using reusable, compostable, or recyclable materials for catering and giveaways
- Appointing a sustainability champion for their stand
- Reducing printed materials in favour of digital alternatives
- Choosing eco-friendly cleaning products
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.
Jasmine Hill, Events Director, British MarineWhat visitor can expect - Discover, learn and get inspired
Visitors can enjoy a host of eco-focused activities throughout the show, including:
- Sustainability talks and workshops
- Exhibitor innovations in green tech and low-emission boating
- Interactive displays to learn more about protecting our oceans
- Live award presentation – join us at 16:00 on Friday 19 September at the Boating Academy Stage to celebrate our 2025 Environmental Award winner!
Whether you’re an exhibitor or a visitor, your actions matter. Join us in shaping a more sustainable future for the marine industry.
