5 key materials for sustainable superyacht interiors
Sustainability is here to stay in every part of our lives, including superyacht interiors.
The future of our planet is everyone’s responsibility. Although sustainable development has been a growing concern in recent decades, the urgency to act now is being underlined by increasing public measures such as the recent tax on plastics. Switching to environmentally sustainable alternatives is no longer simply an ethical choice; it has become the mandate of our times. This is very much reflected in the privileged world of the superyacht industry, where yachties and crew are choosing provisioning, interior products, and construction materials more consciously.
Making small changes on board is relevant to all aspects of the yacht, and today we will focus on tableware. We bring you some options that are far better for the planet than the usual ones, and give a chic and trendy look to superyacht interiors.
Bamboo
There are, of course, many ways to reduce, reuse and recycle when you consider table decoration. You can use old glasses as flower vases, driftwood and shells for decoration, stylish different kinds of porcelain mugs… but one of the trends that is on the rise is bamboo.
Bamboo dishes, cups, cutlery and camping or BBQ setups are totally in. This material is infinitely better for the planet than melamine or plastic and nowadays we can find plenty of stylish washable bamboo pieces that will last as long - or even longer - without creating microplastic waste.
Linen
Linen is a natural material which derives from the flax plant. It results in lightweight but incredibly durable raw material for tablecloths, napkins and other fabric interior items. As it comes from a plant, when untreated, this material is fully biodegradable and is considered the ultimate sustainable textile. Its soft feel, its luxurious look and the fact that it can easily be embroidered makes linen perfect for superyacht interiors, as its design options are unlimited.
Porcelain
Ceramics have been used since the early ages of humanity. Several millennia later, we can still find porcelain pieces buried in archaeological settlements. We can absolutely say that thanks to its great strength and resilience, it can last a very long time. Also, when it breaks down, it doesn’t release any harmful substances. The production of porcelain is more sustainable than other kinds of materials, and when not produced by factories but by artisan hands, this is a great symbol of quality, exclusivity, and care for the environment.
Rattan
This versatile material is used to make baskets, napkin rings, placemats, bread baskets, some outdoor furniture and also many decorative interior items. As it is 100% biodegradable, rattan will naturally decompose without causing any harm to the environment, unlike other materials of synthetic origin. It can be used in the place of wood for lots of products, so it is doubly environmentally friendly, as this also protects forests from logging.
Silver
Silver might not be the first material that comes to mind when considering sustainable materials, but considering its durability it earns a spot on our list. Good quality silver cutlery can last a lifetime and beyond if cared for appropriately. Also, silver is generally obtained as a by-product in the industrial mining for other metals such as zinc, copper or gold. Silver trays, cutlery, and napkin rings can be used almost forever if polished properly, and of course, they will last longer than any synthetic counterpart.
“Our society is making a great change in terms of sustainability and awareness of the importance of protecting our planet, and this, of course, has been reflected in our industry. The type of products that yachts require has changed and most of the orders we receive are from sustainable, eco or bio articles. Plastic is disappearing, and as sea lovers, this can’t make us happier”. Mónica López – Interior Barcelona.
“We have seen a great change towards sustainable interior materials in the superyacht industry. The use of plastic has been significatively reduced, both by the new Spanish Government tax and the awareness of both crew and guests, that ask for ecologic or environmentally friendly products. Sunscreens that protect the ocean and coral reefs promise to be a strong trend again this coming season”. -
María Bustamante – Interior Palma.
If you want to do your part to protect the planet and our precious seas, contact María and Mónica, the interior product experts of the Evolution Team at interior@evolutionagents.com, for more sustainable cruising through Spanish waters.
Evolution Yacht Agents is the leading-edge team of professionals dedicated to providing assured and quality support and services to yachts in Spanish waters.
A full range of superyacht specialized services includes: charter license & legal advice, TPA (Vat exemption), customs & logistics operations, provisions & interior supplies, deck & engineering supplies and crew & VIP services.
