Hardly any term has developed as much in recent years as the term “sustainability”. But what is sustainability actually?
Intensive discussions are taking place in the scientific community about a generally valid definition of the term. One thing is certain, however: there is no agreement in sight. The idea of sustainability has been a guiding principle for political, economic and ecological action for many years.
This idea is also finding more and more supporters in the yacht industry, such as Brunswick Coperation in the USA. In 2020, the company achieved total sales of $4.3 billion in all four of its business areas. They include Propulsion, Parts and Accessories, Boats, and Business Acceleration. The latter area focuses on new business models and services aimed at expanding participation in boating to a broader consumer base. The group’s established brands include Mercury Marine outboard engines, Quicksilver boats, and Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Sea Ray and Princecraft boat models.
Last year, Brunswick released its “Sustainability Report 2021,” a comprehensive 82-page document outlining the company’s latest sustainability goals and achievements. The report focuses on the pillars of energy (responsible consumption), environment (care for the planet), products (stewardship & quality) and people (quality of life for all stakeholders).
The report commits to adhere to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as much as possible, with specific reference to four of them that closely align with the company’s activities: SDG 9 – Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and drive innovation. SDG 12 – Ensure responsible production and consumption. SDG 13 – Combat climate change and its impacts and SDG 14 – Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.
