The award celebrates the successful delivery of a high-impact sustainability initiative that follows the World Sailing Sustainability Agenda 2030.

An expert panel has determined the past two winners of the award.

Corpus Christi Yacht Club in Texas won the inaugural award in 2018 for delivering the first-ever Youth Sailing World Championship, which had a reoccurring theme of ocean conservation and sustainability, driven by a committed volunteer green team.

The Royal Yachting Association in Britain and its joint environmental outreach programme, The Green Blue, won the 2019 award for providing clear training and guidance on key issues that empowered boaters to take action.

This year’s award will introduce a public vote to help decide the winner, alongside an expert panel of judges.

"In the first two years of the World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Sustainability Award, we have seen the huge scope of work which is being delivered to ensure a sustainable future for our sport," said Dan Reading, head of sustainability at World Sailing.

"The depth of initiatives varies from implementing sustainability projects at a local sailing club to working on reducing the environmental impact of boat production through life cycle assessment.

"This award celebrates and recognises these successful sustainability initiatives and I’m looking forward to receiving the 2020 nominations."

World Sailing says the award focuses on excellence from across the sailing industry.

The governing body is now seeking entries from individuals, clubs, teams, events, initiatives, organisations and those from the marine industry with innovative products helping to make the sport more sustainable.

Entries must show alignment with at least one of World Sailing’s Sustainability Agenda 2030 targets.

World Sailing has encouraged submissions which have taken place or been carried out within the last 12 months.

The winner will receive a $10,000 (£9,000/€11,000) prize to help further their sustainability activities, as well as a trophy made from recycled carbon fibre which was sourced from an America’s Cup boat and infused with bio resin.

The award is supported by 11th Hour Racing, an organisation which aims to connect international sailing teams with global events and use the platforms to spotlight a broad portfolio of community grant projects.

"We are excited to be supporting this initiative again and to add public voting to the award, expanding its reach and enabling the sailing community to have a voice in deciding this year's winner," said Jill Savery, 11th Hour Racing's sustainability director.

"As the world faces unprecedented challenges, we know it's even more critical to make changes that will create a more sustainable future for the planet and people.

"By celebrating the best innovations in the sailing world, we hope to create a ripple effect within the industry and inspire many others to adopt these best practices and solutions."

Nominations for the award will close on September 14.