The Environaut project, offering the first-ever qualification for certified Environmental Officers, is regarded as a valuable contribution to sustainability in the nautical tourism sector and our University is very proud to be part of it. 

On January 22nd, partners in the EnviroNaut project successfully finalized and launched the first-ever environmental qualification for the nautical tourism sector. The launch was held during Boot Dusseldorf, the world's most important boat and water sports exhibition. On behalf of Frederick University, Dr Emmanuel Nicolaides, Researcher and Faculty member of the University’s Department of Maritime Transport and Commerce, was present at the event. 

Over a two-year period, the EU-funded Erasmus+ project developed the Environmental Officer Curriculum, a modular online course, and a continuous VET training program, filling a significant gap in the sector. The German Marine Federation (BVWW), as the Lead Partner, collaborated with the European Boating Industry (EBI), Frederick University (FU), and the University's Department of Maritime and Commerce, the German Ocean Foundation, the Spanish organization Sea Teach, and the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA). The project aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, enhancing the skills of onboard and onshore personnel in addressing the environmental challenges of marine ecosystems. Additionally, the project partners developed the Online Training Platform, which is freely accessible to anyone directly or indirectly involved in the nautical tourism sector. The curriculum is an accredited VET course and a valuable qualification for the 'EnviroNaut Certified Environmental Officers.' Importantly, the scientific, institutional, and operational capacity of the consortium ensures the broad recognition of the Certificate.

The Curriculum aligns with the targets set by the European Green Deal and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on sustainably managing recreational boating and nautical tourism to protect marine and coastal ecosystems.

Nautical tourism companies, employees, and stakeholders are invited to explore the EnviroNaut online tool. For more information, please visit: http://environaut.eu