Highlight at RYA Awards: West Wiltshire Youth Sailing Association's Radiance
**West Wiltshire Youth Sailing Association (WWYSA) Wins 2025 RYA Green Blue Team Award for Sustainability Initiatives**
The West Wiltshire Youth Sailing Association (WWYSA) has been honoured with the Green Blue Team award at the 2025 RYA Affiliate Awards, recognising its commitment to environmental stewardship in youth sailing.
The organisation's sustainability efforts have been impressively integrated into its operations, showcasing a holistic approach to environmental responsibility.
**Key Sustainability Initiatives**
One of the most significant changes WWYSA has implemented is the switch from petrol-powered outboard motors to electric alternatives, reducing air and noise pollution associated with their boats. This move directly cuts carbon emissions and sets a benchmark for other sailing clubs.
In addition, the organisation has invested in solar panel installations, promoting the use of renewable energy to power club facilities and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Another key initiative is the kit reuse and "swap shop" program, which encourages the reuse of sailing equipment, helping members reduce waste and the environmental footprint of buying new gear.
**Impact and Significance**
These initiatives not only address direct environmental impacts—such as reducing carbon emissions and waste—but also foster a culture of sustainability among young sailors. By integrating green technology and promoting resource sharing, WWYSA demonstrates leadership in making sailing more sustainable and accessible.
The RYA's recognition of WWYSA underscores its role as a model for other sailing organisations aiming to balance sport with ecological responsibility. The approach is practical, community-focused, and scalable, reflecting a growing movement towards sustainability in grassroots sports.
**Other Notable Achievements**
In addition to its sustainability initiatives, WWYSA has also been recognised for its instructors, Margaret Pell and Nigel Silman, who received Inspirational Race Coach/Instructor Awards in the 2025 RYA Affiliate Awards.
The association also cultivates wildlife habitats and uses non-toxic cleaning products to further reduce its environmental footprint.
The 2026 RYA Awards are now open for nominations, providing an opportunity to celebrate and thank individuals or organisations making a difference in boating communities.
The West Wiltshire Youth Sailing Association (WWYSA) has expanded its eco-friendly approach beyond sailing, introducing sustainable practices in their home-and-garden operations to promote a lifestyle committed to ecological responsibility. For instance, they've set up a garden with native plants to support local wildlife, aligning with their mission to foster a culture of sustainability in the home-and-garden sector as well.
The association's commitment to sustainable living also extends to advocating for recycling, reusing, and proper disposal of waste within their community, demonstrating their dedication to minimalizing their environmental impact beyond their sailing operations.
