Technological innovation a cornerstone of sustainability

A sector-wide desire to write the next chapter in the industry’s future sees 250-plus professionals (entrepreneurs, industrialists, investors, promoters and marina developers from all over the world, architects), representing 25 nationalities, come together at Yacht Club de Monaco for the 4th Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous (22-23 September). More than ever, the environmental challenges facing the planet require deep reflection from the yachting industry, with resilience and innovation emerging as the cornerstones of a prosperous future. At the heart of the eco-transformation, new technologies are revolutionising practices. Thanks to the range of innovations presented by startups and scaleups and projects developed by architects involved in the event, it is possible to envisage more efficient and effective management of resources.

Organised by Monaco Marina Management (M3) under the aegis of the collective Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting approach, the event is supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and Extended Monaco (the Principality’s digital transition programme), alongside UBS, MB92 Group and Bombardier. “The yachting industry is a vital economic force for Monaco, and a factor of attractiveness. In today’s world, the evolution of the sector is a priority for the country, with digital technology as the main asset. In four years, Monaco has built solid infrastructures to reinforce the new yachting generation in particular. Innovation in Smart Yachting must play a central role in our development and modernization while respecting the environment,” explains Frédéric Genta, Country Chief Officer for Attractiveness and the Digital Transition.

For the second year running, the event puts the spotlight on architects (professionals and students) with a unique competition. “We must now study paths to renewal, guided by sustainability and efficiency principles,” says José Marco Casellini, CEO of M3. With its aim to present the latest advances to encourage construction and development of virtuous marines, there is plenty of interest for the 250 professionals registered. A selection of startups and scaleups, a dozen architecture firms plus around 30 students, and a dozen marinas are attending. “As pioneers in promoting sustainability in the yachting industry, we believe it is our duty to actively participate in those initiatives we consider crucial for the energy transition in this sector. With our long-standing partner, Yacht Club de Monaco, UBS is proud to continue the Credit Suisse collaboration with YCM and Monaco Marina Management. Sustainability is an absolute priority for us and our customers. We are determined to support initiatives driving this commitment,” says Alejandro Velez, Head of UBS Monaco & Iberia UBS.

Talent at the service of tomorrow’s infrastructure

To meet environmental challenges, a global response is required to convince the deniers. At this meeting, architects can get involved in projects alongside other professionals in the sector (engineers, landscape architects, marine environment experts). For it is these interdisciplinary collaborations that simulate creativity and innovation to imagine marina concepts that are in tune with the environment while meeting the evolving needs of marina users.
This year, a call for proposals invites architects and students to design an innovative floating marina for the Calanques in the south of France. The jury is headed by Zaha Hadid Architects and includes architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.
“Design is important. In a time of global climate crisis, the role of designers in the development of innovative sustainable and smart solutions, blending beauty and functionality, digital technology and sensitive use of materials, is critical. I look forward to reviewing the architectural entries and coming together with fellow jurors to discuss the diverse perspectives and to meet at the exciting event in Monaco,” says Effie Nakajima, Senior Associate in Zaha Hadid Architects.

With a total surface area of 400m2 and maximum one-storey height, the concept must highlight several key advantages including ease of installation, minimal impact on the environment, modularity and reduced architectural footprint. Key elements that must be included in the project are: a restaurant, a bar and three unique accommodation spaces, a minimum of six berths for small boats (up to 24m in length), a leisure centre with equipment, and a waste collection service to maintain cleanliness and hygiene across the whole facility. Candidates must take full account of the local context in their response to it and are encouraged to propose eco-responsible solutions.
The first such competition held last year was under different constraints but proved extremely popular with many firms applying to take part, such as FRESH Architectures: “Participating in this competition was an opportunity to test our creativity and capacity to innovate in terms of urban planning and transformations, while proposing new architectural codes for a coastal zone,” said Ulisse Gnesda, partner and co-founder of Fresh Architectures.

International Smart & Sustainable Marina Awards: recognition for the ecosystem

This year again at the end of two intense days of exchanges and networking, the International Smart & Sustainable Marina Awards will be presented on Monday 23rd September at 4.00pm to winners in three categories: Startups & Scaleups, Marinas and Architects (Professional & Student).