Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Chairman of Clipper Ventures:
"Clipper Ventures has committed to TAKING ON THE ELEMENTS through a number of actions and activities within the VELUX 5 OCEANS. This includes the creation of the new Eco 60 Class which recycles existing boats and through its associated rules which insist on renewable onboard energy and actively rewards skippers who promote sustainability. At the same time, we will seek to change our mindset through a Race Responsibility Charter which outlines how we are as a race organisation will act and operate.
The Eco 60 Class
The VELUX 5 OCEANS race management, under the leadership of Clipper Ventures, decided to take a new direction for the 2010-11 edition of the race. Having given birth to the Open 60 offshore racing class through the 1980s and 1990s, the team recognised that the modern generation of boats were becoming prohibitvely expensive and detrimental to the environment. Desiring to stay contemporary, global and accessible, Clipper Ventures launched the Eco 60 class - a new concept for a singlehanded sailing class to be premiered in the VELUX 5 OCEANS 2010-11 for Open 60 yachts launched before 1st January 2003.
The Eco 60 Class is governed by a number of rules and regulations, designed to limit costs and encourage positive environmental practices:
- Recycling existing boats: The Eco 60 Class avoids significant investment in both financial and material resources in constructing new boats, instead leveraging existing yachts
- Power systems: The Eco 60 Class rules state that there must be three independent power systems onboard on each yacht. One can be fossil fuel based, whilst two must be based on renewable energy and contribute at least 30% of the required power onboard
Please click here to read the Eco 60 Rules in detail.
Race Responsibility Charter
Clipper Ventures has defined a Race Responsibility Charter with respect to sustainable living- detailing how the race management will operate in order to limit their impact on the climate.
Please click here to read the charter in detail.