About Val Wyatt Marine
For over 175 years, Val Wyatt Marine, an independent boutique marina established in 1845, has been a cherished haven for boating enthusiasts. They've fostered a welcoming community, connecting families with their dream vessels and meticulously maintaining renowned brands like Interboat, Haines, and Corsiva.
Beyond their passion for boats, Val Wyatt prioritises environmental responsibility. This commitment recently earned them recognition as the UK's first marina to eliminate single-use plastics, a testament to their dedication to a healthy environment.
The Challenge:
A Legacy of Excellence Seeks Sustainable Solutions
Recognising the environmental impact of the leisure boating industry, Val Wyatt embarked on their sustainability journey in 2021 by joining the SME Climate Hub. While their initial attempt to calculate the carbon footprint of the business stalled due to the complexity of the task and resource constraints, their commitment to progress on their sustainability journey remained.
The Solution:
Partnering for Measurable Impact
In 2023, Val Wyatt partnered with Switch2zero which marked a significant step forward on their path to net zero. Supported by Switch2Zero consultants, the team was able to successfully calculate their Scope 1 & 2 emissions for their Wargrave marina.
These emissions - from their 2023 footprint - were subsequently offset through Switch2zero's platform, supporting carbon avoidance and removal projects around the globe and provided Val Wyatt with verification badges and marketing collateral that allowed them to engage their audience.
Fast forward to 2024, with the recent opening of their new Chichester office, Val Wyatt is again leveraging Switch2zero's expertise to calculate its Scope 1 & 2 emissions.
Taking Action Beyond Measurement
Val Wyatt have implemented several new initiatives that have helped reduce the carbon footprint:
- Renewable Energy: Val Wyatt switched to a 100% renewable energy source, significantly reducing their reliance on fossil fuels.
- Electrified Fleet: Val Wyatt transitioned their company vehicles to electric models, setting a positive example within the industry.
- Sustainable Choices: They've adopted sustainable practices like using recycled materials in branded clothing and prioritising second-hand office furniture.
This focus on continuous improvement positions Val Wyatt as a leader in sustainable marina operations.
Lisa Anacora, Managing Director of Val Wyatt, emphasises their dedication: “We are committed to making a positive environmental impact and leading by example. Our collaboration with Switch2zero empowers us to understand and reduce our footprint, supporting global reforestation efforts. Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and we're dedicated to continuous improvement for future generations.”
Plans for the Future: A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
Val Wyatt and Switch2Zero are working together to tackle the complex challenge of calculating Scope 3 emissions, which encompass the indirect emissions associated with their value chain. This includes emissions generated during boat manufacturing, a significant contributor to their overall footprint.
While they navigate the complexities of Scope 3, Val Wyatt has taken a proactive approach that demonstrates their commitment to environmental stewardship. Their initiative of planting 100 trees for every boat sold contributes to vital habitat restoration and biodiversity. While tree planting alone doesn't directly offset the emissions from boat manufacturing, it creates a lasting positive impact for future generations by supporting healthy ecosystems that naturally sequester carbon.
Val Wyatt Marines dedication to sustainability serves as an inspiration for the leisure boating industry. By partnering with Switch2Zero and taking decisive action across all aspects of their operations, they are charting a course towards a healthier planet for all.
To learn more about how our net zero consultants can help you understand your footprint book in a FREE 15-minute consultation.