Calling all university student sailors! The Green Blue, the environmental programme of the RYA has officially begun the 2024-25 University Sailing Sustainability Challenge (USSC), running until February 2025.
Since it started back in 2015, the USSC has encouraged University Sailing Clubs (USCs) across the UK to adopt more sustainable practices, and this year marks an exciting change as there is a new official sponsor, the Royal Thames Yacht Club.
The 2024-25 Challenge, backed by the British Universities Sailing Association (BUSA), introduces a new judging criterion, offering University Sailing Clubs (USCs) in the UK greater creativity and flexibility in their sustainability efforts. Clubs appoint a Sustainability Officer who commits to The Green Blue Boating Pledge and focuses on four of eight categories, such as reducing waste and combating climate change. Throughout the challenge, clubs complete tasks and submit evidence to the judging panel, earning a USSC certificate of achievement.
An exciting opportunity for clubs and students to really show what they can do; the panel awards all clubs who participate and complete their tasks with an official USSC certificate of achievement. The judging panel also score all submissions with the top four participants being selected to receive a prize at the USSC Awards Ceremony, held during the prestigious RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show in February 2025.
“We, the university community, benefit hugely from being a part of then The Green Blue challenge. Through the challenge we push ourselves, our clubs, and the clubs we sail at, to be more sustainable and to look at the ways in which the sailing community can support the protection of our waterways and our planet” said Amelie Sadler, Vice Chair at BUSA - British Universities Sailing Association.
"The younger generation of sailors are the future of the sport and it's amazing how many of them are passionate about sustainability. By getting involved in the USSC, it's a great way for individuals and university clubs to not only earn recognition but also set an example for the wider boating community. The work they do can make a real difference in protecting the environment, both in the present and for years to come.” said Kate Fortnam, Campaign Manager at The Green Blue.
Last year an impressive 14 universities successfully completed the Challenge, showcasing their dedication to fostering sustainable values within their clubs. This year, with the support of the Royal Thames Yacht Club, The Green Blue anticipate even greater participation and impact.
“At the Royal Thames Yacht Club, we are committed to the adoption of sustainable practices both within the Club and on the water, and as such are delighted to be supporting the excellent University Sailing Sustainability Challenge. Our young people are the future, and it is critical that future is sustainable. May we thank all participants in this most worthy of causes.” said Richard Powell, Vice Commodore at the Royal Thames Yacht Club.
If your club would like to be part of the challenge, visit The Green Blue’s website to find out more, sign up or contact us at environment@rya.org.uk.
Alternatively, you can follow the journey of the Challenge on social media:
Read further information about the Royal Thames Yacht Club.