France’s Boating Future: Marinas Lead the Way on Environmental Transition
The French nautical sector is preparing for a new era of sustainability and modernisation with the launch of the national Boating and Pleasure Craft Roadmap (Feuille de Route Nautisme et Plaisance). This strategic document, signed between the French Government and the Confédération du Nautisme et de la Plaisance (CNP), sets the national course for the industry until 2030.
Of interest to the wider marina sector, this roadmap heavily features the key concerns championed by the Fédération Française des Ports de Plaisance (FFPP), the leading body for French marinas and a core member of the CNP.
The FFPP has ensured that the operational challenges and strategic opportunities for ports are central to the plan, focusing on:
- Mandatory Ecological Transition for Ports (Action 4)
The roadmap prioritises supporting the transition and modernisation of marinas. This commitment is vital for managers across Europe and includes:
- Widespread adoption of the “Clean Harbours” (“Ports Propres”) certification across the French territory, setting a high benchmark for operational environmental standards.
- Adapting infrastructure to support alternative propulsion methods (e.g., electric charging, alternative fuels) as boat fleets decarbonise.
- End-of-Life Vessel Management (Action 3)
Addressing the perennial problem of derelict vessels, the roadmap aims to strengthen and sustain the national collection and treatment sector for end-of-life pleasure craft. This commitment provides a necessary framework for ports to manage these complex and costly waste streams effectively.
- Strategic Mooring Zones (Action 10)
In a move to increase social acceptability and protect sensitive marine habitats, the plan commits to continuing the development of Mooring and Light Equipment Zones (ZMEL), backed by simplified procedures and a validated economic model. This will help marina managers better control pressure on popular anchorages.
The French roadmap demonstrates a clear commitment from the CNP (and its member, the FFPP) to establishing a modern, sustainable, and competitive French coastline, providing a potential template for other European countries facing similar environmental and regulatory pressures.
The full document can be accessed here.
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