Monaco, known for its opulent lifestyle and luxury amenities, is making a bold move to position itself as a sustainability destination. Despite its association with high-end car racing and extravagant boating culture, Monaco has launched initiatives to promote environmental awareness and green practices. The “Green is the New Glam” campaign, rolled out in 2018, shed light on Monaco’s environmental efforts, paving the way for a 2023 tourism campaign that puts sustainability at the forefront of attracting new travelers. This emphasis on green goals is a stark contrast to the country’s history of greenhouse-gas-emitting superyachts and the iconic Formula One races that have long been a part of its identity.
Amidst Monaco’s push for sustainability, a new boating competition called E1 has emerged as a beacon of eco-friendly innovation in the realm of boat racing. E1 features fully electric-powered speedboats, marking a significant departure from the traditional motorized boats that dominate the racing scene. The Racebirds, custom-built for E1, showcase cutting-edge technology and design, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact. These electric speedboats are certified zero-emission, addressing concerns about oil and fuel release into the water, noise pollution, and disruption to marine life. Additionally, E1 organizers have adopted innovative practices such as using robotic anchorless buoys to mark courses, reducing damage to seabeds and streamlining logistics for hosting races.
E1’s unique appeal extends beyond its technological advancements, drawing attention from high-profile celebrities who have become team owners for the competition. Notable figures like actor Will Smith, tennis player Rafael Nadal, and singer Marc Anthony have invested in E1 teams, bringing a touch of glamour to the eco-conscious racing event. These celebrity team owners are not just passive spectators but active participants in marine conservation efforts through E1’s Blue Impact program. Each team is tasked with contributing to conservation initiatives, such as protecting endangered seagrass meadows and raising awareness about environmental issues. The involvement of celebrities like Tom Brady and Didier Drogba in advocating for ocean conservation adds a significant draw to E1 and amplifies the message of environmental stewardship.
Sophi Horne, the creator of the Racebird speedboat and founder of Seabird, is at the forefront of transforming Monaco’s boating landscape towards sustainability. Initially met with skepticism, Horne’s electric powerboat designs have gained traction among Monaco’s boating elite, sparking interest in electric boating technologies. The Racebird’s distinctive design and eco-friendly features have captured the imaginations of local boating enthusiasts, who are eager to embrace a new era of sustainable boating. With a focus on innovation and exclusivity, Horne’s work signifies a shift towards environmentally conscious practices in Monaco’s boating industry, challenging conventional norms and setting a new standard for luxury boating experiences.
As the E1 Series unfolds, Monaco’s commitment to sustainability in boat racing continues to garner attention and praise. The remaining races scheduled in Lake Como, Italy, and Hong Kong offer opportunities to showcase the fusion of high-performance racing with environmental responsibility. By championing electric-powered speedboats, promoting marine conservation efforts, and engaging influential figures in the conservation dialogue, Monaco is paving the way for a more sustainable future in the world of boat racing. The success of E1 and the growing interest in eco-friendly boating practices underscore Monaco’s evolving identity as a pioneer of sustainability in the luxury leisure industry.