The IFDS is responsible for all aspects of disabled sailing including recreation, training and racing and has members in more than 34 countries. It will use the donated funds to compile a set of specifications and guidelines for the development of equipment for disabled sailors.

The equipment will range from modified seating arrangements to the use of technology in steering the boat and controlling the sails. The project will share all knowledge on an international level, track equipment and adaptations, and provide some pre-built equipment or engineering designs to help countries develop or obtain equipment at little or no cost.

METS says while disabled sailing continues to attract an ever-wider audience, the sport currently suffers due to the lack of universal standards and shared data.

'It’s a wonderful reflection of the spirit of the DAME that key decisions for this year are so far reaching,' says METS product manager, Irene Dros. 'What better way to encourage boating than to help a charity promote sailing to people around the world who may otherwise be unable to take part? And what better new certificate to introduce for the DAME than one that highlights our universal concern with the environment?'

Last year's DAME product registration fees raised €20,850 for the Batavian Yard museum in Lelystad, the Netherlands, to help fund the building of a replica 17th century warship, The 7 Provinces.

DAME registration is now open to all METS and SuperYacht Pavilion exhibitors. The deadline to apply is 12 September 2008. More information from metstrade.com

METS runs at the Amsterdam RAI on 18, 19 & 20 November 2008.