RS Venture Connect World Championship 2024 Receives Silver Level Clean Regatta Certification
by RS Venture Class Association 19 Nov 07:28 PST
30 September – 3 October 2024
RS Venture Connect World Championship 2024 awarded Silver Level Clean Regatta certification © Tom Roberts / World Sailing
The RS Venture Connect Class Association is excited to announce that the 2024 World Championship has been granted Silver Level Clean Regatta Certification by Sailors for the Sea.
Sailors for the Sea Powered by Oceana is an organization focused on ocean conservation. Clean Regattas is one of their principal programs, providing a globally recognized sustainability certification for water-based events. Their mission is to equip event organizers with knowledge, tools, and strategies to create sustainable events that benefit the planet. This program has engaged 1.7 million sailors and attendees in 53 countries.
The RS Venture Connect World Championship, featuring teams from 16 nations competing for titles in both Para and Inclusive divisions, took place earlier this year at Rutland Sailing Club from September 30th to October 3rd. Rebecca Videlo, Sustainability Executive at World Sailing, provided guidance and support for sustainability initiatives during the Clean Regatta qualification process.
Key actions included:
Elimination of single-use items – removal of disposable straws, tableware, plastic bags, and water bottles (countered by the provision of water refill stations)
Responsible waste management – achieved through proper bin placement and signage, along with diverting food waste from landfills
Community involvement – raising awareness of sustainability efforts and serving locally sourced food
Environmental stewardship – promoting awareness of wildlife and habitat protection, advocating for alternative transportation, and offering vegetarian or vegan food options
Green boating practices – preventing pollutants from entering the water
Dan Jaspers, RS Venture Connect Class Builders’ Representative, is excited about this accomplishment: “This recognition is a wonderful reward and reflects the effort of many individuals, including Rebecca, who was instrumental in planning and executing the sustainability-focused elements of the event.”
Michiel Geerling, Commercial Director at RS Sailing, also attended the event, stating, “Advancing sustainability is a key priority at RS Sailing, and it’s inspiring to see shared values in our Class Associations. I look forward to collaborating on more events in 2025 that support clean regatta initiatives such as Sailors for the Sea.”
