Industry experts ramp up drive to net zero

A group of industry experts including system and marine engineers, data analysts, and innovation funding experts, yesterday launched Swell, the marine industry’s first and only R&D tax credit and grants specialists.

Swell aims to accelerate change and bring innovation and technology to market quicker as the marine sector transitions to a circular, net-zero economy.

Swell’s team of experts brings a significant amount of experience from working within the pinnacles of marine sport including the America’s Cup. The team includes managing director – Henry Bomby, director – Nick Prattley, director strategy – Jo Grindley, head of innovation funding – Tom Kennard, and lead technical specialists – Andrew McLean, Emily Nagel and Bleddyn Môn.

Swell technical specialist, Andy Mclean, is head of systems at the British America’s Cup team and adds: “I have seen first-hand how quickly innovation derived from the likes of the America’s Cup can drive industry-wide change.

“Foiling technologies and automated control systems are already starting to dramatically increase the efficiency of vessels, one example of how innovation will help reduce emissions and ensure sustainable growth of the sector.”

Over £3 billion is spent on R&D within the UK marine industry per annum, but there is a clear and growing awareness that grants and R&D tax credit will be required to achieve net-zero 2050 targets, Swell says.

Swell founder and managing director Henry Bomby says: “In order to transition to net zero and introduce zero-emission technologies within the next thirty years, the marine sector is going to have to undergo monumental changes. As someone who is passionate about the marine sector, innovation, technology and sustainability, the opportunity to work with the most innovative companies in the marine industry and help bring new technologies to market quicker is hugely exciting.”

Innovation has been widely acknowledged as a key mechanism for sustainable development. Swell has applied to become BCORP certified and will look to drive change through funding streams they procure for the industry.

“Companies who lead and adopt a more strategic plan for sustainability will not only drive innovation but decrease the impact to effect positive and lasting change within our industry,” says Jo Grindley, strategy director.

Swell was launched earlier this week at an industry event at Spinlock’s offices in Cowes, Isle of Wight.