February 10th 2021, marks the day that the International Canoe Federation (ICF) and Starboard becomeEnvironmental Action Partners. Directing, all disciplines under the International Canoe Federation towards a more environmentally positive pathway.
The partnership has ignited as the International Canoe Federation is reinforcing its commitments towards protecting the environment. With a specific focus on protecting the natural resource that life on earth depends upon, water. Additionally, ICF wants to take action in every way possible. Starting with monitoring carbon footprints and balancing these emissions using natural techniques, such as mangrove planting. With Starboard’s mission to “Bring inspiration and innovation to the world of wind and water.” aligning with the ICF Starboard Blue hopes to lead and inspire environmental change. Whilst also protecting the big blue playground that we share, and to help the planet heal with our actions.
Mangroves With Their Complex Root Structure Which Sequesters CO2 Deeply Back Into The Ground.
Photograph by Trevor Tunnington.
The International Canoe Federation partnering with the SUP and Windsurf brand Starboard for positive environmental action is, quite possibly, the first time in history that an international sports federation has collaborated within the private sector. This big step brings together a community of lifestyle paddlers with a community of athletes.
Progressing forwards, the International Canoe Federation with Starboard as the Official Environmental Action Partner brings together their common positivity for the planet. Implementing action at the ICF Stand Up World Championships and beyond. Meanwhile, Starboard will be working with the ICF to make every World Championship event on the lead up to the World Championships become climate neutral. Growing this action further, each SUP World Championship event will have 10 times the amount of mangroves planted. Absorbing the emissions of travel and electricity 10 times over!Â
ICF President, Jose Perurena shares:
“The International Canoe Federation is very excited to be partnering with Starboard, a company with a fantastic world-wide reputation not just for designing cutting-edge paddle craft, but also for its passion for the environment.
“Together I believe we will be able to achieve some great outcomes, for athletes, event organizers and, most importantly, the health of the planet.”
CEO Starboard, Svein Rasmussen shares:
It’s a unique honour for us at Starboard to join ICF as the Environmental Action Partner. Which is quite possibly, the first-ever environmental collaboration between a board sports brand and a sports federation.
One of our many goals is to work together in support of Paris 2024 in becoming 10 x Climate positive. We believe sports and the Olympic movement can promote climate action, so we start at the water’s edge with reforestation of Mangroves / Seatrees, perhaps the most reliable and efficient CO2 capture technology. Our partnership will reach all disciplines under ICF, using teamwork and collaboration to make a greater positive movement towards a healthier planet.
About The International Canoe Federation
The ICF is the head organization of all national canoe organizations worldwide. Furthermore, they administer all aspects of canoe sport worldwide. More than 165 national canoe organizations are affiliated with the ICF. As the head organization, the ICF organizes more than 20 worldwide ICF World Cups and World Championships per year in different Canoe disciplines. Including, but not limited to, Canoe Sprint, Paracanoe, Canoe Slalom, Canoe Polo, Canoe Marathon, Canoe Freestyle, Wildwater Canoeing, Ocean Racing, Dragon Boat Racing and Stand up Paddling. The ICF is connected to the worldwide Paddling Community, including many thousands of recreational canoeists.
About Starboard
Since 1994 Starboard has been an industry leader. Championing in innovation and quality in Windsurfing and Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Whilst, always striving to be the best in the world. Building upon this, the vision is to become the best FOR the world. Starboard has pledged to be an advocate for the planet. Encouraging, all stakeholders to practice environmentally friendly attitude. Whilst, inspiring others through projects that protect the big blue playground for future generations to come.
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