29er Sustainable Sailor of the Month Award

Introducing the Sustainable Sailor of the Month Award! © International 29er Class Association

The International 29er Class is excited to announce the launch of our Sustainable Sailor (or Team) of the Month program! In collaboration with Sailors for the Sea, we're recognizing sailors, coaches, and squads who are making a real difference in sustainability within our sport and beyond.

Each month, we will highlight an individual, a coach, or an entire training squad that has gone the extra mile to promote environmental responsibility in sailing. Winners will receive an official certificate from Sailors for the Sea, and we're working on partnerships to provide additional prizes for our sustainability champions!

How to Participate:

To be considered for the award, sailors must submit proof of their sustainability efforts before the end of each month. There are many ways to get involved, and we encourage creative and impactful initiatives! Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Beach Cleanup & Environmental Protection

   Organize or participate in a local beach cleanup in your own club/ local beaches
   Pick up trash between races or after practice

2. Community Science & Research

   Engage in water quality monitoring or other local environmental data collection projects in collaboration with local nonprofit, universities or similar organization
   Explore new sustainability efforts at your club, like composting or renewable energy use

3. KELP (Kids Environmental Lesson Plans) Activities

   Introduce KELP activities to your sailing club's programs
   Run a KELP activity at a regatta or sailing event
   Use KELP to teach other sailors about environmental topics

   Check out the KELP playlist.

4. Spreading Awareness

   Organize a talk with a local nonprofit (e.g., an aquarium or habitat protection group)
   Work with organizers to run local or regional events as Clean Regattas
   Share your Clean Regattas efforts with your club or sailing community
   Host a social media campaign on sustainability and raise funds for Sailors for the Sea or another sustainability charity
   Help set up an information table, posters or similar at your regatta to promote environmental awareness

5. Leading by Example

   Use and encourage reusable water bottles
   Promote water-only boat washdowns and ways to save water
   Do a 2-minute beach cleanup between races
   Inspire other sailors to adopt sustainable habits
   Share your sustainability routines, for example a month plastic-free

We'll showcase all sustainability initiatives in a dedicated Sustainability Section on our website. A playlist of KELP videos will also be available to inspire and educate sailors on environmental stewardship.

Want to make a difference? Start planning your sustainability initiative today, submit your proof before the end of the month, and be in the running to be named the Sustainable Sailor (or Team) of the Month!

Small actions add up. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener future for sailing.

If you have any further questions or need more ideas, please contact and .