Vienna Eleuteri is a sustainability scientist and anthropologist of development, widely recognized for her groundbreaking work in sustainable development, human health, and environmental protection. With a unique blend of expertise in anthropology and sustainability science, she has led numerous international projects focused on regenerative development and reducing environmental impacts across various industries, including the superyacht sector. Currently, Vienna serves at the Saudi Red Sea Authority, a governmental body responsible for the regulation, management, and conservation of the Saudi Red Sea coastline and its islands, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan.
Background and Education
Born and raised between Rome and the Netherlands, Vienna developed a deep understanding of diverse cultures and environments from an early age. She studied anthropology in Rome, focusing on human behavior and its interaction with the environment, before specializing in sustainability science. Her work integrates anthropological insights to address the root causes of environmental degradation, emphasizing the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge into sustainable practices. Vienna advocates for a regenerative paradigm that honors traditional ecological knowledge and champions community-based approaches to restore ecosystems and achieve long-term resilience.
Career Highlights
Vienna has pioneered sustainable practices in industrial ecology, particularly in the superyachting industry, by developing models aimed at neutralizing the ecological footprint of maritime activities. One of her key initiatives is Yachting 4.0, a computational sustainability program that guides decision-making in production processes, enabling the superyachting industry to adopt more sustainable practices.
She is also at the forefront of Green and Blue Carbon Farming, leading projects that encourage local communities to adopt sustainable practices that enhance soil health, reduce water footprints, and boost biodiversity. Vienna's work in this area includes the development of Regenerative Contribution Units (RCUs), a new standard for showcasing the regenerative impact of sustainable practices.
In collaboration with the IUCN Marine Mammals Task Force, she is working to establish Important Marine Mammals Areas (IMMAs) internationally, further demonstrating her commitment to both mitigating environmental damage and regenerating ecosystems.
Vision and Impact
Vienna’s vision revolves around the interconnectedness of human behavior and environmental sustainability. Her work emphasizes a shift from sustainability to regenerative development, focusing not only on minimizing harm but also on restoring ecosystems. Her leadership in projects like the Climate Contribution Model, presented at COP28, exemplifies her innovative approach to addressing the climate crisis by promoting industry-level contributions to environmental restoration.
Dr. Eleuteri’s contributions continue to transform industries, especially within maritime sectors, where her expertise bridges environmental science with real-world application. Through her work, she is influencing global policy and practices, inspiring a shift toward a more regenerative future.
Languages
Vienna is fluent in Italian, English, Dutch, and German, and she has studied ancient languages such as Latin, Greek, and Pali. She is currently learning Arabic.
Current Location
Vienna is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
What do you do in Yachting?
In the yachting industry, I have pioneered sustainable development practices, becoming the first sustainability manager in yachting and the initiator and vice-chair of the Water Revolution Foundation. Through my scientific background, I have introduced innovative tools and methodologies, such as the WaterEvolution model. My work bridges technological advancements with environmental responsibility, engaging industry leaders and the next generation of professionals to adopt solutions that promote a healthier, more sustainable marine environment. I focus on regenerative development while supporting the implementation of the United Nations Climate Agreement, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the 2030 Agenda by fostering high-impact public-private innovation synergies.
What was your field of study, and where did you pursue your education?
My career in yachting began with my deep passion for the ocean. As an ocean enthusiast and advocate for yachting, I have worked tirelessly to integrate environmental stewardship within the sector. I became the first sustainability manager in the superyacht industry, setting a precedent for others to follow. My role as the initiator and chair of the first SYBAss (Superyacht Builders Association) Sustainability Committee marked a turning point in the industry's approach to environmental responsibility, creating a formal platform for sustainable practices in both superyacht construction and operation.
How did your career in yachting begin?
My career in yachting began with a deep passion for the ocean. As an ocean enthusiast and advocate for yachting, I have worked tirelessly to integrate environmental stewardship within the sector. I became the first sustainability manager in the superyacht industry, setting a precedent for others to follow. My role as the initiator and chair of the first SYBAss (Superyacht Builders Association) Sustainability Committee marked a turning point in the industry's approach to environmental responsibility, establishing a formal platform for sustainable practices in superyacht construction and operation.
Can you share a memorable experience or significant achievement in your yachting career?
A memorable achievement in my yachting career is the development of the WaterEvolution model, which emerged from my early research in the field. This model has been recognized by leading international organizations such as UNEP and UNESCO as a Blue Solution, highlighting its effectiveness in driving science-based sustainable and regenerative practices within the yachting industry. This recognition underscores the model's impact and my commitment to shaping a nature-positive future for the sector.
One of the most significant manifestations of this model is the Water Revolution Foundation, which I founded and currently serve as vice-chair. Alongside visionary board members like Henk de Vries, Peter Lürßen, Philippe Briand, Martin Redmayne, and Carolina Corral, we work to foster the next generation of leaders in the industry. This non-profit organization not only advocates for reducing environmental impacts in yachting but also promotes a nature-positive approach, aligning industry practices with broader regenerative goals. Through the foundation, we have implemented advanced methodologies to assess and mitigate ecological footprints, helping the yachting industry move beyond sustainability and the 2030 Agenda to actively contribute to environmental restoration and address post-2030 goals.
For more details, please visit the WaterEvolution model here: WaterEvolution.
What current projects or goals are you focused on?
I am currently serving as a Senior Advisor to the CEO at the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA), an independent government body established in 2021 by Saudi Arabia’s Council of Ministers. The SRSA is responsible for regulating navigational and marine tourism activities along the Red Sea coastline within Saudi Arabia. The authority plays a crucial role in the Kingdom’s efforts to develop a sustainable and regenerative "Red Sea Economy" by promoting tourism, protecting marine environments, preserving Saudi cultural heritage, and empowering local communities.
In this capacity, my goals focus on fostering sustainable practices, preserving marine ecosystems, and empowering local communities. I also collaborate closely with both governmental and private stakeholders to ensure that tourism growth aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.
I am also leading the Ocean Assist Program, a dedicated initiative for the yachting and maritime industry aimed at fostering a more sustainable and regenerative relationship with the ocean. The core mission of the program is to provide an accessible framework that links the ecological impacts of yachting with targeted investments in key ocean conservation programs. This initiative encourages the industry to adopt science-based sustainable practices, actively contributing to ocean stewardship and promoting behaviors that support marine regeneration.
The Ocean Assist Program places particular emphasis on blue carbon ecosystems—such as mangroves, seagrasses, and marine biodiversity—as key components of this approach. By focusing on regenerative development, the program promotes nature-positive metrics that aim to restore ecosystems, delivering real ecological benefits rather than simply neutralizing emissions. This approach not only reduces the environmental footprint but actively restores ocean health, aligning the maritime sector with broader conservation goals.
Get in touch with Vienna Eleuteri
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/viennaeleuteri
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