RBYC: Yacht Club Sets Sail for Sustainability

By harnessing renewable energy, the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club [RBYC] is “reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and embracing a cleaner, more sustainable future,” the club said.

A spokesperson said, “When you think of the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club [RBYC], you likely picture world-class sailing and rich maritime history. But did you know the club is also leading the charge in sustainability? Beneath the surface, a different kind of race is underway—one that involves the entire Bermuda community in reducing waste and embracing renewable energy.

“RBYC has made significant strides in sustainability, including:

• Conducting its first-ever Waste Audit with Keep Bermuda Beautiful [KBB]
• Installing solar panels to power operations with clean energy
• Earning Platinum Level Clean Regattas Certification for the Newport Bermuda Race

“These milestones demonstrate RBYC’s dedication to environmental responsibility, ensuring that both club activities and internationally recognized sailing events align with sustainable practices.

A Community-Driven Waste Audit

“What happens to the waste generated at RBYC? Thanks to collaborative efforts with Keep Bermuda Beautiful [KBB], Beyond Plastic, and the Waste Management Department of the Government, the club has taken a crucial step by conducting a waste audit. Vanese Gordon, representing the Waste Management Department, provided invaluable expertise in assessing waste streams and identifying areas for improvement.

“Food waste remains the largest contributor to overall waste, highlighting an opportunity for composting or new waste diversion strategies. With continued efforts from members and visitors alike, RBYC can take the next steps toward smarter waste management.”

“These insights allow us to take meaningful action,” said Galen Brislane, Rear Commodore of House. “Now that we have the data, we can refine our systems, improve recycling, and make a real difference with the support of the community.”

“I am proud to be a part of the House and the Green Sub-Committee at RBYC,” Christian Chin-Gurret, who participated in the audit. “It was enlightening to do the waste audit and see firsthand where we can make improvements.”

Harnessing the Sun for a Sustainable Future

The spokesperson said, “Just as the wind has powered our sails for generations, we now look to the sun to power our operations. At RBYC, we have always relied on nature to propel us forward during our races, and now we extend that philosophy to our sustainability efforts. Instead of turning to the wind, we turn to the sun to keep our club running efficiently and responsibly. By harnessing renewable energy, RBYC is reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and embracing a cleaner, more sustainable future.

“Since installation, the solar panels have generated approximately 58.4 MWh of electricity, reducing RBYC’s carbon footprint by an estimated 42.3 tons of CO2 equivalent. This initiative aligns with Bermuda’s broader sustainability goals and demonstrates RBYC’s commitment to energy-efficient solutions that benefit the island’s environment.

Setting a New Standard for Sustainable Sailing Events

“Sailing and ocean conservation go hand in hand. That’s why it’s exciting to share that RBYC played a key role in the Newport Bermuda Race achieving Platinum Level Clean Regattas Certification—the highest recognition from Sailors for the Sea.

“This certification highlights the race’s commitment to waste reduction, ocean conservation, and sustainable event management. As a result, Bermuda is hosting a world-class sailing event that showcases responsible environmental practices on a global stage.

Leading by Example in Sustainability

“Sustainability isn’t just a one-time effort—it’s a journey that involves the entire community. Whether through waste management improvements, renewable energy adoption, or international sustainability standards, RBYC is committed to leading by example.”

“The data from our first waste audit is invaluable,” said Paul Adams, RBYC General Manager. “It shows us exactly where we can improve, and we’re excited to implement new initiatives that will make a real impact with the support of our members and the broader community.”

The spokesperson said, “With a waste audit completed, solar panels powering operations, and a Platinum Clean Regattas Certification secured, RBYC is proving that sustainability and sailing can thrive together. As the club continues to evolve its green initiatives, it remains committed to making meaningful and lasting environmental progress for Bermuda.”

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