The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) has announced Steber International as winner of the Boating Industry Sustainability Award for 2024.
BIA President Adam Smith said the award was introduced in 2023 to recognise outstanding efforts by businesses promoting sustainable practices and supporting environmental responsibility within the boating industry.
BIA President Adam Smith with Alan Steber
“It was fantastic to see the number of submissions increase significantly over the past 12 months, it is a testament to the industry’s growing commitment to sustainability,” Smith said.
“The breadth and variety of initiatives, ranging from research and product development to strategic workplace practices that reduce environmental impacts taking place at a domestic and international level was great to see.”
Steber International is a 78 year old Australian owned and operated family business that is highly regarded, with their business spanning recreational, commercial and Defence maritime sectors. Their sustainability efforts date back to 2009 and have accelerated over recent years into a company-wide responsibility and effort.
Steber International’s passion and commitment to sustainability and good environmental practice has driven the business to embed a formalised environmental sustainability system, with operational practices and procedures. Initiatives focus on reducing waste and pollution, using sustainable materials, and developing more sustainable propulsion systems. Programs include waste separation, noise reduction, efficient dust extraction and vessel refurbishment.
The development of their 13m Steber electric hybrid boat is a standout project and collaborative effort with Ampcontrol and the University of Newcastle. The 600kW plug-in hybrid power and propulsion system allows the vessel to be efficient, quiet and emission-friendly without compromising on cruising range.
Steber is a partner on the OCIUS project which has seen development of a solar and wind powered autonomous vessel. Their ‘Ocius Bluebottles’ use Rigid Opening Sails (ROS) and Hybrid Marine Power (HMP) technology to achieve low cost wide, persistent, wide area ocean surveillance for Defence and security, oceanographic, hydrographic and oil, and gas applications.
Steber run a ‘Re-Use, Re-New, Re-Fit’ program which is a sustainable approach to vessel refurbishment and repowering, and encourages developments such as electric hybrid power systems. This approach will not only extend the usage and lifespan of vessels, but if converted into electric hybrids, will be more than ready to meet any future government decarbonisation requirements. They also dispose of end-of-life vessels and fibreglass items ranging from unrepairable boats to bushfire damaged farm equipment. This process involves the removal of all recyclable and reusable items to reduce the volume added to landfill.
The implementation of a 4 day 38 hour week has reduced their overall electricity consumption along with the flow-on effect of reducing staff travel by 20 per cent.
“We are proud to be at the forefront of innovation demonstrating how the energy transition can be achieved across all industries through collaboration,” added Alan Steber, General Manager Steber International.
Steber demonstrates a long-term commitment to sustainability in business and manufacturing systems, leading the way for the Australian marine industry.
The Sustainability in the Boating Industry Award aligns with the BIA Strategic Business Plan, aiming to create a vibrant industry that promotes boating as a sustainable leisure activity for all. The award recognises those who have gone above and beyond in adopting sustainable business practices and promoting the sustainability of boating.
For more information about the Sustainability Award and the highly commended nominees, please visit the BIA website HERE.
