SMALL THINGS THAT MATTER

As part of the three-day seminar series Thalassophilia!, hosted by Estela Yachting in Palma de Mallorca, the panel “Small Things That Matter” offered valuable insights into how the yachting industry can contribute to sustainability through daily practices. Held on May 1st, the session was moderated by Captain Pietro Borgo and featured fellow Italian Yacht Masters members Captains Lucio Prosperi and Riccardo Del Prete.

Rather than focusing on the major technologies of tomorrow, the panel highlighted small, actionable steps that can be implemented immediately—with real, measurable impact. The aim is to go beyond mere compliance with regulations such as MARPOL, and to encourage voluntary behaviors that make a tangible difference.

Examples included switching from traditional lighting to energy-efficient LED systems, introducing onboard water dispensers to eliminate single-use plastic bottles, and improving waste separation practices to ensure proper recycling—even during extended periods at sea.

Captain Lucio Prosperi shared how M/Y Yasmine of the Sea (83m) has long adopted several eco-conscious technologies, such as a vacuum system to compress and refrigerate waste, significantly reducing the volume of organic and plastic materials. Other onboard solutions include diesel particulate filters (DPF) that almost completely cut generator emissions, and a new power management system that optimizes the vessel’s electrical load, reducing the need to run multiple generators—thereby cutting fuel, oil, and filter consumption. Onboard Yasmine of the sea the plastic bottle usage is now nearly zero.

M/Y Yasmine of the sea

Captain Pietro Borgo presented the sustainable features integrated from the early design stages of M/Y Moonflower (72m), a new-build with diesel-electric propulsion. Among its highlights: fully recyclable 1MW salt-based battery systems, electric engines enabling zero-emission cruising for several hours, a Dynamic Positioning System to minimize anchor use, variable-speed MAN generators, exhaust filtration systems with AdBlue, Mic-Fil oil filters, and the use of biodegradable hydraulic oils.

Captain Riccardo Del Prete offered his perspective as a sailing yacht captain, emphasizing the critical role of crew culture and onboard habits in lowering environmental impact. His vessel uses a filtration and mineralization system to produce drinking water onboard, eliminating the need for plastic bottles. He also promotes the use of biodegradable or eco-certified products—from everyday cleaning supplies to specialty materials like antifouling paints and coatings.

These firsthand accounts show that sustainability can be built through everyday decisions—small, but scalable actions that, when shared across the industry, can create meaningful change.