motorboat action meaning

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Meaning of motorboat in English

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• cabin cruiser
• dragon boat
• rubber dinghy
• While you can take a motorboat, many people prefer to take the original Venetian taxi, the famous gondola.  

motorboat | Intermediate English

Examples of motorboat, translations of motorboat.

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Definition of motorboat noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

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You See a Motorboat Approaching on Your Right. What Action Should You Take

You might think that when you see a motor­boat approach­ing on your right, there’s not much you need to do. But let me tell you, tak­ing the right action in this sit­u­a­tion is cru­cial for your safe­ty.

By assess­ing the sit­u­a­tion, deter­min­ing the speed and dis­tance of the motor­boat, and check­ing for any poten­tial obsta­cles or haz­ards, you can make sure you’re pre­pared.

In this arti­cle, we’ll guide you through the nec­es­sary steps to ensure a safe encounter with a motor­boat.

Key Take­aways :

• Eval­u­ate the dis­tance between your boat and the motor­boat on your right.
• Assess the speed and direc­tion of the motor­boat and adjust your own speed and direc­tion accord­ing­ly.
• Be vig­i­lant and aware of poten­tial obsta­cles or haz­ards in the water.
• Use hand sig­nals to com­mu­ni­cate your inten­tions and main­tain clear com­mu­ni­ca­tion with the oth­er boater.

Table of Con­tents

Assess the Situation

You should quick­ly assess the sit­u­a­tion and deter­mine the appro­pri­ate action to take.

As the motor­boat approach­es on your right, it is cru­cial to eval­u­ate the dis­tance between your boat and the oncom­ing ves­sel. Check if there is enough space for both boats to pass safe­ly with­out any risk of col­li­sion.

Keep an eye on the speed and direc­tion of the motor­boat to bet­ter under­stand its inten­tions. Assess the water con­di­tions and any poten­tial obsta­cles that could affect your maneu­ver­abil­i­ty. If you notice any poten­tial dan­ger, such as a nar­row chan­nel or shal­low waters, it may be nec­es­sary to slow down or alter your course to avoid any mishaps.

Observe the behav­ior of the oth­er boat’s oper­a­tor. Are they fol­low­ing the rules of nav­i­ga­tion? Do they seem aware of your pres­ence? If you feel uncer­tain or unsafe, it is wise to com­mu­ni­cate your inten­tions using visu­al or audi­to­ry sig­nals, such as sound­ing your horn or rais­ing your hand.

Determine the Speed and Distance of the Motorboat

When assess­ing the motor­boat’s approach, it’s impor­tant for you to deter­mine its speed and dis­tance to make informed deci­sions.

Adjust­ing your own speed and direc­tion accord­ing­ly will help ensure a safe inter­ac­tion on the water.

Assessing Motorboat’s Approach

As the motor­boat approach­es on your right, quick­ly assess its dis­tance and speed. Look out for any visu­al cues that can help you deter­mine its prox­im­i­ty and how fast it is com­ing towards you. Pay atten­tion to the size of the boat in rela­tion to oth­er objects around it. Is it get­ting larg­er or small­er? This will give you a sense of its dis­tance.

Observe how quick­ly it is clos­ing in on you. Is it mov­ing at a slow, mod­er­ate, or fast pace? By ana­lyz­ing these fac­tors, you can make an informed deci­sion about the appro­pri­ate action to take. Whether it’s main­tain­ing your course, adjust­ing your speed, or alter­ing your direc­tion, your assess­ment of the motor­boat’s approach is cru­cial in ensur­ing your safe­ty on the water.

Adjusting Speed and Direction

Take a moment to eval­u­ate the speed and direc­tion of the approach­ing motor­boat and make any nec­es­sary adjust­ments to your own speed and direc­tion.

If the motor­boat is approach­ing quick­ly and appears to be on a col­li­sion course, it’s impor­tant to slow down and steer away from its path. Reduce your speed grad­u­al­ly to avoid caus­ing any sud­den move­ments that could fur­ther increase the risk of a col­li­sion.

Assess the direc­tion in which the motor­boat is mov­ing and adjust your course accord­ing­ly. If it’s veer­ing to the left, for exam­ple, you may need to steer to the right to cre­ate enough dis­tance between the two ves­sels.

Always pri­or­i­tize safe­ty and main­tain a clear line of com­mu­ni­ca­tion with the oth­er boat to ensure a safe and smooth pas­sage.

Check for Any Potential Obstacles or Hazards

Make sure you’re scan­ning the water for any pos­si­ble obsta­cles or haz­ards as the motor­boat approach­es on your right. It’s cru­cial to stay vig­i­lant and aware of your sur­round­ings to ensure a safe and smooth nav­i­ga­tion. Keep your eyes focused on the water ahead and around you, search­ing for any signs of poten­tial dan­gers.

Look out for float­ing debris, such as logs, branch­es, or even trash, which could pose a sig­nif­i­cant risk to your boat’s pro­peller or cause dam­age to the hull. Addi­tion­al­ly, be cau­tious of shal­low areas or sand­bars that might be hid­den beneath the water’s sur­face. These can unex­pect­ed­ly dam­age your boat or even cause it to get stuck.

Keep an eye out for oth­er boats or water­crafts that may be in the vicin­i­ty. It’s essen­tial to give them suf­fi­cient space and main­tain a safe dis­tance to avoid any col­li­sion. Remem­ber, shar­ing the water­ways requires mutu­al respect and coop­er­a­tion.

Be aware of any swim­mers or divers in the water. They may be dif­fi­cult to spot, so it’s cru­cial to be obser­vant and cau­tious. Adjust your speed and direc­tion accord­ing­ly to ensure their safe­ty.

Signal Your Intentions to the Motorboat

Sig­nal your inten­tions to the motor­boat by using clear hand sig­nals and prop­er com­mu­ni­ca­tion tech­niques. This is impor­tant to ensure a safe and effi­cient inter­ac­tion with the motor­boat. By clear­ly indi­cat­ing your inten­tions, you can avoid any poten­tial acci­dents or mis­un­der­stand­ings on the water.

When the motor­boat is approach­ing on your right, it is cru­cial to com­mu­ni­cate your actions to the dri­ver. If you want to con­tin­ue straight, sim­ply main­tain your course and avoid any sud­den move­ments. If you intend to turn, use the appro­pri­ate hand sig­nal to indi­cate your direc­tion. This will give the motor­boat dri­ver a clear under­stand­ing of your inten­tions and allow them to adjust their course accord­ing­ly.

Adjust Your Course or Speed if Necessary

If the motor­boat is approach­ing on your right, it’s impor­tant to adjust your course or speed if nec­es­sary in order to ensure a safe inter­ac­tion on the water.

When you see a motor­boat approach­ing from the right, it’s cru­cial to take imme­di­ate action to avoid a poten­tial col­li­sion. Assess the sit­u­a­tion and deter­mine if you need to alter your course or slow down to main­tain a safe dis­tance.

If the motor­boat is mov­ing at a faster speed or appears to be on a col­li­sion course with you, it is advis­able to adjust your course by turn­ing to the left to cre­ate more dis­tance between the two ves­sels.

Sim­i­lar­ly, if you are mov­ing at a faster speed than the motor­boat, con­sid­er slow­ing down to allow the motor­boat to pass safe­ly on your right side.

Remem­ber, it’s essen­tial to com­mu­ni­cate your inten­tions to the motor­boat through hand sig­nals or sound sig­nals to ensure a clear under­stand­ing of your actions.

Maintain a Safe Distance From the Motorboat

When encoun­ter­ing a motor­boat on the water, it’s cru­cial to adjust your speed accord­ing­ly to ensure a safe dis­tance between both ves­sels.

Stay alert and cau­tious, keep­ing a watch­ful eye on your sur­round­ings and any poten­tial haz­ards.

Remem­ber to give right of way to the motor­boat when nec­es­sary, ensur­ing a smooth and cour­te­ous nav­i­ga­tion expe­ri­ence for every­one on the water.

Adjust Speed Accordingly

Slow down and adjust your speed accord­ing­ly when you see a motor­boat approach­ing on your right. This is an essen­tial action to ensure the safe­ty of both you and the oth­er boaters. Here’s what you should do:

• Reduce your speed: Grad­u­al­ly decrease your speed to allow for bet­ter maneu­ver­abil­i­ty and reac­tion time.
• Main­tain a safe dis­tance: Keep a rea­son­able dis­tance from the motor­boat, giv­ing both ves­sels enough space to nav­i­gate safe­ly.
• Be aware of wake: Motor­boats can cre­ate large wakes that may affect your boat’s sta­bil­i­ty. Adjust your speed to min­i­mize the impact of these waves.
• Com­mu­ni­cate with hand sig­nals: Use clear and con­cise hand sig­nals to indi­cate your inten­tions to the motor­boat dri­ver and ensure smooth nav­i­ga­tion.

Nav­i­gat­ing a boat requires keen atten­tion to the sur­round­ing envi­ron­ment and the care­ful mod­u­la­tion of speed. Just as a dri­ver adjusts to road con­di­tions, a boater must “adjust speed accord­ing­ly” when on water. Fac­tors such as water traf­fic, wave height, wind speed, under­wa­ter obstruc­tions, and prox­im­i­ty to shore­lines or docks play a cru­cial role in deter­min­ing appro­pri­ate boat speed. Trav­el­ing too fast can jeop­ar­dize the safe­ty of the ves­sel, its occu­pants, and oth­er near­by boats, while mov­ing too slow­ly may impede nav­i­ga­tion and con­trol.

Stay Alert and Cautious

Now that you have adjust­ed your speed accord­ing­ly, it is cru­cial to stay alert and cau­tious as you see a motor­boat approach­ing on your right. Keep your eyes focused on the boat, assess­ing its speed and direc­tion.

Main­tain a safe dis­tance, ensur­ing there is enough space between your boat and the motor­boat to avoid any poten­tial col­li­sion. Be pre­pared to take eva­sive action if nec­es­sary, such as slow­ing down or chang­ing your course.

Keep in mind that oth­er boaters may not always fol­low the rules, so it’s impor­tant to stay vig­i­lant. Stay aware of your sur­round­ings, includ­ing oth­er boats, buoys, and any poten­tial haz­ards in the water.

Give Right of Way

Remem­ber to always give right of way to oth­er boaters, espe­cial­ly when nav­i­gat­ing through busy areas or approach­ing inter­sec­tions. It’s impor­tant to pri­or­i­tize safe­ty and be cour­te­ous on the water.

When you see a motor­boat approach­ing on your right, here are some actions you should take:

• Slow down: Reduce your speed to allow the motor­boat to pass safe­ly.
• Main­tain course: Keep your boat on a steady path to avoid any con­fu­sion or sud­den maneu­vers.
• Com­mu­ni­cate: Use hand sig­nals or horn blasts to indi­cate your inten­tions and ensure clear com­mu­ni­ca­tion with the oth­er boater.
• Be patient: If the motor­boat is not respond­ing or seems unaware of your pres­ence, give them addi­tion­al time and space to react before mak­ing any sud­den moves.

“Right of way” refers to the legal or cus­tom­ary enti­tle­ment of one par­ty or vehi­cle to pro­ceed ahead of oth­ers in a par­tic­u­lar sit­u­a­tion or place. This term is com­mon­ly used in traf­fic and road safe­ty reg­u­la­tions to deter­mine which vehi­cle or pedes­tri­an has the pri­or­i­ty to move first. Under­stand­ing and respect­ing the right of way is cru­cial for pre­vent­ing acci­dents and ensur­ing the smooth flow of traf­fic. Whether at inter­sec­tions, pedes­tri­an cross­ings, or merg­ing lanes, adher­ing to right-of-way rules helps main­tain order on the roads and pro­motes safe­ty for all users.

In con­clu­sion, when you spot a motor­boat approach­ing on your right, it’s essen­tial to assess the sit­u­a­tion calm­ly. Deter­mine the speed and dis­tance of the motor­boat, keep­ing an eye out for any poten­tial obsta­cles or haz­ards.

Sig­nal your inten­tions to the motor­boat, and if need­ed, make adjust­ments to your course or speed. Remem­ber to main­tain a safe dis­tance from the motor­boat to ensure a pleas­ant and enjoy­able boat­ing expe­ri­ence for every­one involved.

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How Does Motorboat Work? (A Guide To Its Mechanism)

Have you ever seen a motorboat out on the water and wondered how it works? Or perhaps you’re considering taking up motorboating as a hobby? Whatever your reasons, understanding the mechanism of a motorboat is essential to your safety and enjoyment out on the water.

This guide will cover the basics of motorboat operation, including an overview of the different types of motorboats, the components of a motorboat, and how it actually works.

Plus, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of motorboating and provide some safety tips to get you out on the water with confidence.

So, let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of motorboating!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A motorboat is powered by an internal combustion engine which uses fuel to create energy that powers a propeller.

The engine is connected to the propeller by a shaft, and the engine controls the speed of the propeller.

When the engine is turned on, the propeller spins and creates thrust which pushes the boat forward.

The boat is steered with a rudder, which is connected to the engine.

By using the rudder, the driver can control the direction of the boat.

What is a Motorboat?

A motorboat is a type of boat that is powered by a motor.

This motor can be an internal combustion engine or an electric motor.

This motor is used to turn a propeller located at the back of the boat, which then propels the boat forward.

In addition to providing the power to move the boat, the engine also powers other components on the boat such as lights, pumps, and other electrical systems.

Motorboats are a great way to explore the water and can be used for a variety of activities such as fishing, waterskiing, and simply cruising around.

They are great for taking a leisurely trip with friends and family or for more adventurous pursuits such as exploring the open waters or fishing.

Motorboats come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and power levels.

The size and power level of the motorboat will determine the type of activities that it can be used for.

For example, a larger and more powerful motorboat will be better suited for waterskiing and other high-speed activities, while a smaller and less powerful motorboat may be better suited for fishing or cruising around in calmer waters.

No matter what type of motorboat you choose, it is important to understand how a motorboat works and how to properly maintain and operate one.

With proper maintenance and operation, a motorboat can provide years of enjoyable and safe boating experiences.

Types of Motorboats

Motorboats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from large yachts to small dinghies, and each type of motorboat has its own unique features and benefits.

Yachts are typically larger and more luxurious boats that are used for leisure and entertainment activities such as cruising, fishing, and swimming.

Dinghies are smaller and more economical boats that are used for shorter trips and fishing on smaller bodies of water.

There are also other types of motorboats that cater to specific uses such as racing boats, houseboats, and pontoon boats.

The type of engine used in a motorboat will depend on the size and purpose of the boat.

Larger boats will typically use an internal combustion engine, which is more powerful and efficient than an electric motor.

Smaller boats and dinghies will often use an electric motor, which is quieter and more efficient than an internal combustion engine.

Both types of motors have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider the size and purpose of the boat before deciding which type of motor to use.

In addition to the type of motor used, it is also important to consider the type of fuel the boat will use.

Diesel and gasoline are the two most common types of fuel used in motorboats.

Diesel is typically more efficient and has a lower emissions output, while gasoline is less expensive and easier to find.

It is important to consider the type of fuel that is available in the area where the boat will be used and to make sure it is compatible with the engine.

Components of a Motorboat

A motorboat is powered by an internal combustion engine, or electric motor, and consists of several key components.

The most important of these components is the engine, which runs on gasoline or diesel fuel to power the boat.

The engine is usually connected to a drive shaft, which is connected to a propeller at the rear of the boat.

This propeller is what moves the boat forward and is the main source of propulsion.

Other components on the boat include the steering wheel, throttle, and fuel and electrical systems.

The engine is the heart of the motorboat and is responsible for powering all the other components.

It is connected to the drive shaft, which is connected to the propeller.

The engine also powers the lights, pumps, and other electrical systems on the boat.

The fuel system is responsible for delivering the fuel to the engine and is usually either a carburetor or fuel injection system.

The electrical system is responsible for powering the lights, pumps, and other electrical components on the boat.

The steering wheel is used to control the direction of the boat and is connected to the rudder.

The throttle is used to control the speed of the boat and is connected to the engine.

The fuel and electrical systems are also connected to the engine and are responsible for supplying the necessary fuel to the engine and powering the lights, pumps, and other electrical components.

The propeller is the main source of propulsion and is connected to the drive shaft, which is connected to the engine.

All of these components work together to provide the boat with power and propulsion.

The engine is the main source of power on the boat and is responsible for powering the other components and propelling the boat forward.

The fuel and electrical systems are responsible for supplying the necessary fuel to the engine and powering the lights, pumps, and other electrical components.

The steering wheel, throttle, and rudder are used to control the direction and speed of the boat.

Finally, the propeller is the main source of propulsion and is connected to the drive shaft, which is connected to the engine.

How Does a Motorboat Work?

A motorboat is a type of boat that is powered by an engine.

Most motorboats use an internal combustion engine or an electric motor to propel them through the water.

The engine converts its power into a rotational force which turns a propeller located at the stern of the boat.

This propeller then creates thrust, pushing the boat forward through the water.

The engine also powers other components on the boat such as lights, pumps, and other electrical systems.

With a motorboat, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, waterskiing, and simply cruising around.

This makes them a great way to explore the water and have fun.

In order to understand how a motorboat works, we must first look at the components that make it up.

The main component of a motorboat is its engine.

This is the power source that drives the boat forward and powers other components.

The engine is typically located in the stern of the boat, and is connected to the propeller via a shaft or drive system.

The propeller is an important part of the motorboat’s propulsion system.

It is the component that provides the forward thrust that pushes the boat through the water.

The propeller is connected to the engine via a shaft or drive system, and is typically located at the stern of the boat.

The motorboat also contains other components such as the steering system, which is used to turn the boat in different directions.

This is typically done using a rudder or a wheel, and is connected to the engine via a cable or linkage.

The motorboat also contains other components such as lights, pumps, and other electrical systems.

In summary, a motorboat works by using its engine to turn a propeller located at the stern of the boat.

This creates thrust, pushing the boat forward through the water.

This makes motorboats a great way to explore the water and have fun.

Pros of Motorboating

Motorboating is a great way to enjoy the water and explore the outdoors.

Motorboats come with a variety of benefits including the ability to travel at faster speeds, the ability to cover larger distances, and the ability to access remote areas that may not be accessible by other means of transportation.

Motorboats are also a great way to have fun and relax with friends and family, as they provide ample space to move around and enjoy activities such as fishing, waterskiing, and simply cruising around.

Motorboating is a relatively easy activity to learn, as most motorboats are equipped with user-friendly features such as power steering and automatic trim tabs which make controlling the boat easier than ever before.

Motorboats also come with a variety of safety features such as navigation lights, flares, and life jackets, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Finally, motorboats are a cost-effective way to enjoy the water, as most motorboats are relatively affordable, and the cost of fuel and maintenance is relatively low compared to other forms of transportation.

Additionally, motorboats are relatively easy to store and maintain, and depending on the size of the boat, can be stored in a garage or even on a trailer, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the water without breaking the bank.

Cons of Motorboating

The primary downside of motorboating is the cost associated with it.

An internal combustion engine is quite expensive, and if you plan on using your motorboat for a variety of activities, the cost can quickly add up.

Additionally, the cost of fuel and maintenance can be high, especially if you dont take the time to properly care for your motorboat.

Another potential downside of motorboating is the noise pollution.

The sound of an engine can be quite loud, and can be disruptive to nearby wildlife and other boaters.

Additionally, the engine can be quite smelly, as it emits exhaust fumes, and this can be unpleasant for people in the area.

Finally, motorboating requires a certain level of skill and knowledge.

It is important to understand the basics of operating a motorboat, and to know basic safety and navigation rules.

Without this knowledge, it is easy to get into trouble on the water, and potentially put yourself and others in danger.

Safety Tips for Motorboating

With motorboating being a popular way to explore the great outdoors, safety is of the utmost importance.

The following tips can help make motorboating a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

First and foremost, it is important to wear a life jacket while motorboating.

This is especially true for children and non-swimmers, as the waters can be unpredictable and a person can be thrown overboard unexpectedly.

Inflatable life jackets are available for extra comfort and convenience.

It is also important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding motorboating.

Different areas have different rules and regulations that must be followed, so it is important to research these before heading out on the water.

It is also important to check the weather before heading out.

Strong winds and choppy waters can create hazardous conditions, so it is important to make sure the conditions are favorable before heading out.

Additionally, check the fuel level before heading out and make sure the boat is properly stocked with supplies in case of an emergency.

Finally, it is important to stay alert while motorboating.

Be aware of other boats in the area and pay attention to the direction of the waves.

If the waves are crashing against the side of the boat, it could be a sign that the boat is too close to shore.

It is also important to stay aware of your surroundings and be prepared to act quickly if necessary.

By following these safety tips, motorboating can be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Be sure to stay alert, follow local laws and regulations, and wear a life jacket to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Final Thoughts

Motorboating is a great way to explore the waters and take part in activities like fishing and waterskiing.

With the right knowledge and safety precautions, motorboating can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Now that you know how a motorboat works and the benefits and risks associated with it, all that’s left to do is get out there and have some fun!

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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• A-Z of motor boats: your ultimate guide

Motor boats don't often take centre stage in our magazine, but we're about to change that. This in-depth feature explores the different kinds of motorboats, their manufacturers, how they differ from sailboats, and weighs their pros and cons. We'll help you figure out if a motorboat is the right fit for you, when to best venture out on one, and we'll delve into the requirements and conditions for a skipper's licence. In essence, we're bringing you the complete motorboat rundown. All hail the engine!

Differences to a sailboat

The age-old debate of powerboat versus sailboat is a classic theme in many a nautical conversation. We're not here to pick a side between those who favour sails and those who prefer motors. Instead, our aim is to present you with a balanced view, packing all the necessary facts, insights, and knowledge into one comprehensive discussion.

Draft and bridges

A motorboat's draft is significantly shallower, thanks to the absence of a keel. Furthermore, the lack of a mast means there's no need to worry about the boat's height when it comes to passing under bridges. So from a depth and overhead clearance perspective, you're in safe waters with a motorboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: If you've never sailed under the renowned Pasman-Ugljan bridge, which has spelled disaster for numerous sailing boats, a motorboat provides the perfect chance!

Space and comfort

Broadly speaking, aside from mega yachts or specialist vessels, motorboats provide more space both below and on deck compared to similarly sized sailboats. They also typically feature multiple deck levels. So you can bask in the sunshine on one deck, and find shelter in the shade on another. Furthermore, on a motorboat, you don't have to fret about a precarious jib or the risk of tripping over winches or ropes. The deck tends to be more open and free from sailing gear, allowing for easier movement and relaxation.

If you have crew members who do not tolerate the heeling of a sailboat well, this concern is completely eliminated with motor boats. Unless you're faced with sizeable waves, the boat is likely to maintain stability and you won't need to worry about any significant tilting. This makes a motorboat a more comfortable choice for those sensitive to the motion of the sea.

You wouldn't find such a load on a motorboat

A leisure sailboat simply can't match the speed of a powerboat. While most sailboats average around 7 knots, motorboats can easily reach 15 to 20 knots. If you enjoy the thrill of speed and the feeling of wind in your hair, a powerboat is the perfect choice for you.

Consumption and costs

On the flip side, with the increased speed comes higher fuel costs. While on a sailboat, you might only need to refuel at the end of your trip or 2-3 times a week at most, resulting in a manageable fuel bill. However, if you're sailing for extended periods each day on a motorboat, you'll find yourself refuelling frequently, at a higher cost, and spending a significant amount of time waiting to fill up the diesel tank.

Level of effort and work

Starting a motorboat is straightforward; turn it on and off you go, cruising wherever you fancy. There's no need to fuss over ropes, the jib, sails, lazy bags, lazy jacks, or the whereabouts of the crank. Unlike on a sailboat where there's always something to keep you occupied, a motorboat offers pure relaxation and peace of mind. If you're seeking a laid-back cruising experience, a powerboat is the way to go.

Sailing direction

As long as there are no big waves and the Bora is not blowing against you, you can sail your motorboat comfortably pretty much anywhere you want. This isn't the case with sailboats, where you might have to cruise or alter your destination if the wind is blowing directly against you. While sailboat enthusiasts often say, "the journey is the destination," powerboat users are more about reaching their destination promptly and without fuss.

What is the difference between a motor boat and a sailboat?

Despite their differences, powerboats and sailboats do share some commonalities, with maintenance being the prime one. Regardless of the type of boat you own, upkeep is crucial. This includes taking care of the sails or engine and ensuring regular servicing. Moreover, marina fees apply uniformly to both. The harbour masters charge based on the length of the boat, irrespective of whether it's a sailboat or a powerboat. The only exception might be a catamaran, which typically incurs a higher fee due to its dual-hulled design, making it wider and potentially occupying the space of two conventional berths.

Disadvantages of motor boats

While motor boats offer numerous advantages, it's important to consider their potential drawbacks as well. Let's take off the rose-tinted glasses and delve into some of the downsides associated with powerboats.

Fuel dependency and non-environmental operation

Unlike a sailboat that can harness the wind as a natural and free power source, a motorboat is completely reliant on diesel fuel. Running out of fuel in the middle of your journey can leave you stranded. Furthermore, this dependence on fossil fuels also means that operating a motorboat has a greater environmental impact compared to sailing.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Speaking of ecology, check out our guide — Green sailing: 11 tips for eco-friendly yachting . 

Less stability in wind

Motorboats lack a significant keel, resulting in reduced stability when faced with waves and strong winds. Consequently, it is advisable to opt for motorboat rentals during the summer season, when occurrences of powerful winds and waves are comparatively infrequent.

Calm and the smell of the sea

The sound of the engine never leaves you during your voyage which can get on people's nerves. Likewise, the typical smell of burning diesel can start to bother you after a while.

Who is a motor boat best suited for?

A motor boat is well-suited for individuals seeking relaxation, tranquillity, and minimal effort. With the simple act of starting the engine, you can swiftly set sail without any additional concerns. Plus, a motor boat is highly recommended for those who desire to explore a wide range of places, including beaches and other scenic locations. It is particularly advantageous for covering long distances between islands and the mainland within the typical timeframe of a one or two-week vacation. Motor yachts are also a favourable choice for yachters who enjoy fishing, as they provide a comfortable and convenient means of transportation for navigating to different areas and indulging in fishing activities.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Find out what else you can do while sailing in our article — Top 12 fun activities to do on a sailing holiday .

Fishing is an great addition to a boating holiday.

For nature lovers seeking harmony and a closer connection to the natural environment, a sailboat is more preferable than a motorboat. Sailboats provide a serene atmosphere and allow for a deeper appreciation of nature. Additionally, if the aim is to foster teamwork and engage in shared experiences, a sailboat offers more opportunities as it involves handling ropes and sails.  But if you want to relax with a bunch of friends, there's nothing better than a powerboat.

Motor boat season

Unlike sailing boats that typically operate in Europe from April to November, motor boats have a more limited season. The majority of motor cruising occurs between June and September, with peak activity in June and July. Other times of the year, motor yachts are less commonly seen at sea. This is because before and after this season, conditions tend to be windier and the sea becomes cooler, which is more appealing to racers on sailing yachts rather than those seeking a tranquillity on a motorboat, particularly in destinations like Croatia.

YACHTING.COM TIP: What winds and weather will you encounter in the Mediterranean over summer? Check out our guide — The 7 most common winds you'll find in the Mediterranean . 

Motor boat licence

The licence needed to operate a motor boat depends on two criteria — the engine power and the area where you will be boating (whether sea or inland waters). If you want to cruise on a motor boat with an engine power of  less than 4kW , then you don't need a licence. This applies to houseboats or small boats, for example. You can sail a boat with a 4kW to 20kW  engine on inland waters with a VMP licence, but for the sea you'll need an international skipper's licence just as for a sailing boat and in some countries (such as Croatia), a radio licence . With engine power  above 20kW , for inland sailing and on the sea, you will need a certificate of engine experience for inland sailing in addition to the VMP.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Still hesitating about getting your skipper's licence? Take a look at our 5 reasons to take a skipper's course . Then check out our sailing courses and you'll soon be sailing the seas!

How to choose a motor boat?

Motor boats have a slightly different interior layout than sailboats. The smaller ones often have only one or two cabins and it is automatically assumed that the other couple sleeps in the saloon, often in the bow. Check before you make your final booking that you will have plenty of privacy. Small motor boats are designed for a couple or small family rather than several people who don't know each other.

Route planning

When choosing a boat, take note of how much the boat consumes. You may find that the fuel will cost you the same amount of money as the charter itself in a week's sailing. Plan your itinerary in advance so you know what to expect.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Want to enjoy your cruise to the fullest and without a care in the world? Try hiring a professional skipper or hostess for your yacht. They'll take care of running the boat, cleaning and cooking, leaving you to relax and spend time with your loved ones. Just ask our sales team.

Highly renowned motor boat brands in the charter industry

Here we have picked out the most popular types of motor boats from our search portal.

Probably the most infamous brand of motorboats is Merry Fisher. The Merry Fisher 795 models are among the best sellers and the Merry Fisher 895 is a common sight cruising the coastline of Croatia. Another sought-after model is the Antares 9 OB , which is generously equipped for a comfortable boating holiday, but if you're after something bigger, the Antares 11 Fly is a great choice. The Greenline 33 or its larger sibling, the Greenline 39 , are also fantastic options.

The popular Antares 9 OB model.

Other types of motor boats

Every motor boat is unique, and there can be a wide range of vessels categorized under the name "motor boat." Let's explore some intriguing and lesser-known motor boats that have distinctive features and stand out from the norm.

Small motorboat

Charter services also offer the option to rent small motor boats, which are perfect for day trips to secluded beaches, nearby islands, or bays that are inaccessible by foot. These boats are typically compact and may not have cabins, making them suitable for short excursions. They are particularly recommended for families who have rented an apartment by the sea and wish to explore the surrounding areas by water. In many cases, these small motor boats are equipped with relatively low-powered engines, and in several countries, you may not even require a skipper's license to operate them. We recommend, for example, the Zodiac Madline 2 or the slightly larger Four Winns H210 .

You can also rent a smaller boat.

Few people can buy a superyacht. And although many more people can rent one, it is still quite expensive. A superyacht or megayacht is considered to be a boat longer than 80 feet but you'll have to hire a professional skipper as only a handful of skippers have a licence for a boat of this length. For example, we offer the superyacht Azimut Grande 27 or MY Custom Line 52 m . These can cost up to 100,000 euros to hire for a week, but the price often includes a crew to look after the boat (including the professional skipper).

Superyacht Azimut Grande 27

The main difference from the motor boats we rent at sea is that houseboats sail on freshwater streams and are designed for exploring rivers, canals, lakes, ponds, and dams. Although houseboats generally have less powerful engines, this feature often allows them to be rented without a license in most destinations. It's important to note that these houseboats are far from mundane, offering a unique and enjoyable holiday experience on calm waters. Check out these breathtaking destinations you can explore on a houseboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Never been on a houseboat?  Take a look at our our guide —   First time on a houseboat: 25 things you need to know!

This is what one of the most popular houseboats, the Nicols Estivale Sixto Prestige, looks like.

Power catamaran

Recently, motor catamarans or power catamarans have become more and more popular. They combine the advantages of a catamaran (two hulls, stability, space, nets to lie on,...) while offering the speed, carefree and comfort of a motor boat. Never driven a catamaran? Check out our article — First time on a catamaran: what you need to know

Body of a two-hulled power catamaran.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Wondering what are all the types of boat you can charter? You will be surprised how many there are. Check out the article —  Boats for rent: what types of boats do charter companies offer?

How to operate a motor boat?

If you have sailing experience, driving a powerboat will seem like something very simple. You don't have to worry about ropes, sails, vignettes, masts or a flying jib. You simply start the boat and cruise wherever you want. Then it's the same as mooring with a sailboat.

One important aspect to be aware of when operating a motor boat is the  engine trim . Engine trim refers to the adjustment of the angle between the propeller and the bottom of the boat. Ideally, the propeller should be positioned vertically downward. As a motor boat gains speed, the bow of the boat may lift, causing the propeller to partially submerge. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the captain to intervene and adjust the engine trim to ensure that the propeller is aligned vertically and not at any angle other than 90 degrees to the water surface. This adjustment is crucial to prevent the boat from jumping or unnecessarily impacting the water with the bow. By maintaining the correct trim, the boat can navigate efficiently and provide a comfortable sailing experience for all on board.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Do you know how to operate the outboard motor on a dinghy? Read our article — Dinghy and outboard motor: what you need to know .

Where to sail with a motor boat?

We've selected 3 regions where you can enjoy a fantastic time with a motorboat and take advantage of its superior speed.

Vineyards and islands off Hvar

Start your journey from Split and make your way to the enchanting island of Solta or the sun-soaked Brac. For a glimpse of Croatia's renowned beaches, don't miss out on visiting Zlatni Rat. Proceed to the captivating island of Hvar, where we suggest exploring either the lively town of Hvar itself, the more serene town of Stari Grad, or the authentically charming Vrboska. Indulge in an overnight stay at a tranquil cove on the island of Ščedro, where you can delight in snorkeling alongside majestic clams. Depending on your available time and preferences, continue your voyage to the island of Vis and discover the picturesque village of Komiza, where you can experience the novelty of standing on a buoy or by the pier. During the day, take a trip to the island of Bisevo, home to the famed Blue Spila (blue cave).

Ionian Sea (and turtles!)

Rent a boat on the Greek island of Corfu. Upon taking over the boat on Saturday, take a leisurely stroll to the charming capital, Kerkyra, where you'll be enchanted by its delightful streets and atmosphere. Next, set sail south towards the island of Paxos, renowned for its breathtaking bays. During the day, make sure to indulge in a refreshing swim in Lefkada, a destination in the western part that boasts stunning beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean. Consider spending the night in the lively bay of Vasiliki, known for its vibrant nightlife and one of Greece's most famous kebab joints. The following day, continue your journey to Kefalonia and then proceed onwards to Zakynthos, famously known as the "island of turtles." If possible, sail as far south as you can towards Zakynthos, maximizing your exploration of this captivating destination.

Italian temperament

Experience the enchanting Bay of Naples, beginning in Baiae and venturing to Ischia, where you can navigate its waters at your leisure. Along the way, explore the quaint islet of Procida. Consider Ponza as an alternative to the bustling island of Capri. If time permits, visit the renowned Positano. Carry on to the breathtaking town of Amalfi, with its cliffside houses. Above all, indulge in la dolce vita.

Whether it's a motorboat or a sailboat, I'll find you the perfect choice. Give me a call.

Denisa Nguyenová

Faq motor boats.

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• Published: 01 September 2001

Neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the understanding and imitation of action

• Giacomo Rizzolatti 1 , 2 ,
• Leonardo Fogassi 1 &
• Vittorio Gallese 1  

Nature Reviews Neuroscience volume  2 ,  pages 661–670 ( 2001 ) Cite this article

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What are the neural bases of action understanding? Although this capacity could merely involve visual analysis of the action, it has been argued that we actually map this visual information onto its motor representation in our nervous system. Here we discuss evidence for the existence of a system, the 'mirror system', that seems to serve this mapping function in primates and humans, and explore its implications for the understanding and imitation of action.

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A variant of the transcranial magnetic stimulation technique, in which two coils are used to generate magnetic fields in quick succession over the same cortical region or in different regions at the same time.

Also known as the Hoffmann reflex, the H reflex results from the stimulation of sensory fibres, which causes an excitatory potential in the motor neuron pool after a synaptic delay. Exceeding the potential threshold for a given motor neuron generates an action potential. The resulting discharge will cause the muscle fibres innervated by that neurone to be activated.

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A philosophical movement founded by the German Edward Husserl, dedicated to describing the structures of experience as they present themselves to consciousness, without recourse to theory, deduction or assumptions from other disciplines, such as the natural sciences.

Stimuli devised by the Swedish psychologist Johannson to study biological motion without interference from shape. Light sources are attached to the joints of people and their movements are recorded in a dark environment.

A technique used to stimulate relatively restricted areas of the human cerebral cortex. It is based on the generation of a strong magnetic field near the area of interest which, if changed rapidly enough, will induce an electric field sufficient to stimulate neurons.

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Rizzolatti, G., Fogassi, L. & Gallese, V. Neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the understanding and imitation of action. Nat Rev Neurosci 2 , 661–670 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1038/35090060

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The development of motor behavior

Karen e. adolph.

New York University

John M. Franchak

University of California, Riverside

This article reviews research on the development of motor behavior from a developmental systems perspective. We focus on infancy when basic action systems are acquired. Posture provides a stable base for locomotion, manual actions, and facial actions. Experience facilitates improvements in motor behavior and infants accumulate immense amounts of experience with all of their basic action systems. At every point in development, perception guides motor behavior by providing feedback about the results of just prior movements and information about what to do next. Reciprocally, the development of motor behavior provides fodder for perception. More generally, motor development brings about new opportunities for acquiring knowledge about the world, and burgeoning motor skills can instigate cascades of developmental changes in perceptual, cognitive, and social domains.

Introduction

Motor behavior includes every kind of movement from involuntary twitches to goal-directed actions, in every part of the body from head to toe, in every physical and social context from solitary play to group interactions. The development of motor behavior bridges the entire lifespan from the first fetal movement to the last dying breath.

Although movements fundamentally depend on generating, controlling, and exploiting physical forces, managing forces requires more than muscles and biomechanics. At every point in development, adaptive control of movement relies on core psychological functions 1 , 2 . Perception and cognition are required to plan and guide actions 3 . Social and cultural factors spur and constrain motor behaviors 4 . Motor behaviors, in turn, provide the raw material for perception, cognition, and social interaction 5 , 6 . Movements generate perceptual information, provide the means for acquiring knowledge about the world, and make social interactions possible.

According to a developmental systems view, motor behaviors cannot be understood in isolation, divorced from the bodily, environmental, and social/cultural context in which they occur 7 . Movements are inextricably nested in a body-environment system. The body and the environment develop in tandem. New or improved motor skills bring new parts of the environment into play and thereby provide new or enhanced opportunities for learning and doing. Caregiving practices facilitate and constrain motor development. As a consequence, differences in the way caregivers structure the environment and interact with their children affect the form of new skills, the ages when they first appear, and the shape of their developmental trajectory.

New motor behaviors can emerge from a mix of interacting factors, some so pervasive that we mistakenly take them for granted, and some so subtle or non-obvious that we fail to recognize the link. Developmental changes in one domain can have cascading effects on development in other domains, sometimes far afield from the original accomplishment 8 , 9 . Moreover, the context in which behavior develops can be very different for individual children, resulting in developmental pathways that sometimes converge at the same outcome and sometimes veer off in unique directions.

This article is organized around four basic action systems—posture, locomotion, manual actions, and movements in the face and head. We focus primarily on the infancy period, when basic action systems are acquired.

Posture is the most fundamental of motor actions. It is the foundation upon which other actions are built 10 . The instant that any part of the body breaks from the support surface—merely raising an arm while supine or lifting the head while prone—torque acting on the body part creates disequilibrium. This is why novice sitting and standing infants lose balance just from turning their heads or lifting their arms. Posture must be sufficiently stable to allow movements of the extremities, and maintaining a stable posture sets up the necessary conditions for looking around, handling objects, holding conversations, or going somewhere. As such, the emergence of most skills—including those not obviously related to posture—must await the development of sufficient postural control. Like every action, posture is perceptually guided and maintained.

Overcoming Gravity

Gravity and the surrounding media (e.g., air, water, the ground beneath the feet) are so quietly pervasive, so hidden in plain sight, that these important factors are often overlooked as causal forces in development. But they are central for motor development. Before birth, the buoyant uterine environment supports a variety of postures. Large body movements—whole body flexion and extension, stretching and writhing, and vigorous leg kicks that somersault the fetus through the amniotic fluid—peak at 14 to 16 weeks gestation 11 , 12 . As the growing fetus occupies increasingly more space in the uterus, the propensity for movement is masked until the fetus can no longer extend its limbs or turn its head. Many of the movements practiced by the fetus are present in the repertoire of the neonate 12 , but after birth begins the real struggle against gravity.

Postural development is the attainment of increasingly erect postures poised over an increasingly small base of support. Think of a newborn struggling to lift its head, a toddler’s wide walking stance, and an older child dancing on pointe. Indeed, the most common images of motor development are milestone charts of postural development ( Figure 1 ). The milestone charts suggest an orderly, age-related march through a series of stages, but developmental pathways can differ and individual infants do not strictly adhere to the normative sequence derived from average onset ages. Infants can acquire skills in various orders, skip stages, and revert to earlier forms 13 – 15 . Moreover, the skills highlighted on the milestone charts reflect the cultural biases of the initial researchers and samples 4 . In some cultures, for example, many infants do not crawl, or they do so after they learn to walk 16 .

Typical example of milestone chart illustrating age-related changes in postural development. Adapted from 4 .

Generally speaking, infants’ gradual triumph over gravity precedes top down from head to feet. The top down progression is especially striking in the development of sitting. At first, head and trunk control is so poor that unsupported infants fold in half, falling chest to legs. Increasing control moves slowly down the spine—neck, shoulders, waist, hips 17 , 18 . Infants eventually “tripod sit” by stabilizing their torso with arms propped between their outstretched legs. Finally, around 6 months of age, infants sit independently with hands freed from a supporting role 19 , and over the ensuing weeks gain sufficient stability to manage the destabilizing forces caused by turning the head, twisting the torso, and moving the arms. The skill progression is not locked to a strict maturational timetable. Differences in childrearing practices affect the timing and trajectory of sitting 4 , 20 . In cultures where caregivers routinely exercise and massage their infants, the babies sit independently before 5 months of age, and they do so with such assured stability that their mothers regularly perch them on high furniture and leave the room to do chores.

Like sitting, standing typically begins with manual support of balance. Infants pull to stand and hold themselves upright by gripping furniture for support 15 . Toward the end of the first year, they stand freely and cruise holding furniture for support 19 . Locomotion in prone, sitting, crawling, and upright postures appears only after infants can keep balance in one place, and transitions between postures (shifting from prone to sitting, sitting to standing, and so on) typically emerge last.

Basis for Action

A stable postural base opens up new possibilities for acquiring knowledge and acting on the world. The ability to maintain head position while held in caregivers’ arms allows infants to look around 21 and maintain gaze with caregivers 22 . The ability to sit and stand upright provides new vantage points for visual exploration 23 . Stability in a sitting posture frees the arms for reaching and the hands for manual exploration 17 , 24 – 26 .

Indeed, reaching and manual exploration have different developmental trajectories for prone, supine, and sitting postures 25 , 27 . While prone, bimanual exploration is difficult because one arm is occupied in holding the chest off the floor. While supine, infants struggle to raise objects against gravity and have difficulty exploring them visually. But while sitting, more sophisticated bimanual object exploration is possible because head, arms, and hands are more free to move.

Developmental changes in postural control instigate a cascade of far-flung changes: Independent sitting facilitates more sophisticated bimanual object exploration such as fingering, transferring, and rotating, which in turn facilitate learning about the three-dimensionality of objects 28 . Improvements in manual skills are also linked with shifts in infants’ attention to changes in object appearance 29 , object size 30 , multimodal information about objects 31 , and other people’s intentions to grasp objects 32 , 33 . The path from posture to prehension to perceptual learning is not immediately obvious, but it is there nonetheless.

Dynamic Postural Control

Movement is ubiquitous in every posture. Even while lying down, the body is in motion. Similarly, sitting, crawling, and standing postures may appear stationary to casual observation, but they are not. Rather, the body gently sways back and forth within the base of support 18 , 34 . A torque-induced sway in one direction must be met by a muscle-induced compensatory sway in the opposite direction. Standing infants are sensitive to perceptual information for body sway and can control swaying movements with merely a light touch of the hand on a support surface 35 , 36 .

Visual information for body sway is extremely powerful. Slight movement of the walls around a sitting or standing infant in a “moving room” creates the illusion of postural sway ( Figure 2 ), and infants compensate for the visual information for body position by leaning in the opposite direction 37 – 39 . However, infants do not use visual information for postural control as efficiently as older children and adults. Whereas adults rock gently back and forth like puppets in tune with the wall oscillations, infants’ compensatory sways are excessive and they often stagger and fall.

Toddler losing balance in a “moving room.” Child stands on a solid floor surrounded by walls that move back and forth along a track. Here, the walls move toward the child creating the visual illusion of the body swaying forward; the child compensates by swaying backward. Adapted from 39 .

Summary: Posture

Posture is the core ingredient of motor skill. With no postural control, most motor behaviors are impossible. The development of postural control instigates a cascade of new skills and opens up new possibilities for looking, social interactions, manual actions, and locomotion. Postural development is partly a perceptual accomplishment because even while sitting and standing, the body is always slightly swaying and perception plays a key role in keeping the body inside the base of support. Postural control emerges from the interaction of a growing body dealing with the constraints of the physical environment—gravity, air, the properties of the support surface, and so on. Caregiving practices can speed up or delay postural control and the cascade of new skills that follow.

Precursory locomotor movements are exhibited during fetal and neonatal periods, but locomotion is not reflexive or hardwired. Rather, locomotion is creative and infants must learn to control locomotion adaptively. Locomotion improves with practice, and practice can lead to extraordinary performance 4 , 7 , 40 .

Newborn Reflexes

When newborns are held upright with their feet on a hard surface, they move their legs in an alternating pattern that resembles walking. This phenomenon is called the “newborn stepping reflex” because the movements appear to be elicited by contact with the ground surface and do not require cortical control 41 . Stepping typically disappears by 2 months of age and reappears at 8–10 months when infants begin walking with support. The fact that newborns produce alternating, upright leg movements led researchers to believe that walking is hardwired in the nervous system 42 – 44 . Similarly, the curious disappearance and reappearance of stepping was attributed to a hardwired developmental mechanism: Cortical maturation inhibits the reflex and increased myelination of the corticospinal tract allows stepping to return under volitional control.

However, the so-called stepping reflex is not, in fact, reflexive, and alternating leg movements do not, in fact, disappear. Newborns “air-step” without an eliciting physical stimulus and they step in response to optic flow 45 , 46 . Infants can deliberately modify their leg movements 47 in various configurations of alternating, simultaneous, and single-leg kicks 48 , 49 . They spontaneously kick their legs while supine 50 and supine leg kicks are kinematically equivalent to upright steps, and are produced by the same muscle activations 50 . Moreover, supine kicking continues unabated throughout the period when upright stepping disappears 51 , and upright steps instantly reappear when infants are held on a motorized treadmill 52 , 53 or when their legs are submerged in a tank of water 54 . With daily practice in an upright posture, the stepping movements never disappear 55 , 56 . Changes in the body, not the brain, explain the U-shaped trajectory of upright stepping: Between 2–8 months of age, gains in leg fat typically outstrip gains in muscle 54 . In an upright position, infants cannot lift their chubby legs against gravity, but in a supine position gravity helps to flex the legs; on a treadmill, the moving belt does the work of pulling infants’ legs backward and in a tank of water, the medium alleviates the effects of gravity. Upright practice makes leg muscles stronger.

Creative Solutions

Individual infants find different ways to solve the problem of moving. Their first success at mobility likely involves a prone position with minimal balance constraints. They may log roll from place to place or pivot in circles using auditory information to calculate the shortest rotational distance to their caregivers 57 . As shown in Figure 3 , some infants belly crawl, using limbs, head, and belly in various combinations for support and propulsion 58 , 59 . The belly rests continually on the floor or bumps up and down during each cycle. Every form of precursory prone movement helps: Infants who pivot, belly crawl, and so on are twice as proficient when they begin crawling on hands and knees compared with infants who don't display the earlier forms 58 . In fact, simply spending a few minutes a day in a prone position accelerates the onset of rolling and crawling 60 .

Variations in infants’ crawling patterns. Left column shows four different crawling styles: “army” crawling with the abdomen continually resting on the ground, “inchworm” crawling with the belly on and off the ground during each cycle, standard hands-and-knees crawling, and hands-and-feet “bear” crawling. Center column represents combinations of arms and legs used to propel the body. Right column shows combinations of belly, hands, knees, and feet used to maintain balance. Each row shows a unique crawling pattern. Adapted from 58 .

On hands and knees, balance constraints increase because the belly is off the floor. As a consequence, most infants quickly settle into a relatively stable, near-trot gait pattern 58 , 61 . But they also crawl on hands and feet, and combine hands, knees, feet, and buttocks into various forms of hitching and bum-shuffling positions that blur the line between sitting and crawling 40 . Balance constraints are more severe while upright, but learning to walk is likewise an exercise in creative problem solving with various falling, twisting, and stepping strategies for inducing enough disequilbrium to take steps but not so much loss of stability to cause a fall 43 , 62 , 63 .

Generating new forms of locomotion can involve cognitive skills such as means-ends problem solving, representing goals and spatial locations, and tool use. As illustrated in Figure 4 , when confronted with challenging obstacles such as steep slopes, cliffs, and stairs, infants search for alternative means of descent—scooting, crawling, sliding, and backing strategies 64 – 66 . Backing is most difficult because it requires infants to initially turn away from the goal, coordinate backward movements, and steer without visual guidance. On narrow bridges, infants use a sturdy wooden handrail as a tool to augment their balance, but they reject the handrail if it is too far from the bridge 67 – 69 . With only a wobbly rubber handrail for support, they test the potential utility of the rail, and invent various strategies for distributing body weight over the bridge and handrail ( Figure 4 ).

(A) Some of the strategies infants use to descend slopes: Scooting down in a sitting position, crawling on hands and knees, sliding head-first while prone, and turning their bodies to back down feet first. (B) Some of the strategies infants use to cross bridges holding a wobbly handrail for support. Infants employ a “hunchback” strategy by pushing down on the rail to make it taut, walk sideways while leaning backward as if “windsurfing”, walking forward and pulling back on the rail as if “mountain climbing”, and “drunkenly” leaning against the rail as they staggered forward. Adapted from 64 , 68 .

Learning to Walk

Infants take their first walking steps at 12 months, on average 19 , but like all motor milestones, onset ages have a wide range (8–18 months). Walking onset awaits sufficient strength and balance to support the body on one leg as the other leg swings forward 43 , 70 , 71 . Both experimental and cross-cultural studies show that experience standing, stepping, and moving upright facilitates gains in strength and balance and accelerates the onset of walking 4 , 7 , 40 . A few minutes of daily practice with upright stepping causes infants to begin walking weeks earlier than infants who receive only passive exercise 55 , 56 . Similarly, in Caribbean and African cultures where parents deliberately exercise their infants’ upright skills as part of daily massage and bathing routines ( Figure 5 ), infants walk sooner than those from the same ethnic backgrounds who do not receive practice 16 .

Formal massage and exercise routines used in Africa, India, and the Caribbean that facilitate motor development. (A) Massage; (B–C) Suspending the infant from the arms and feet; (D) Mother providing sitting practice; (E–F) Practicing stepping in an upright posture. Adapted from 179 , 180 .

Infants’ first steps are wobbly and uneven, with a wide side-to-side distance between feet, a small front-to-back distance between steps, long periods when both feet are on the floor, and short periods when one foot is in the air 72 , 73 . But soon the base of support narrows, step length increases, double support periods decrease, and infants are racing across the floor. The steep developmental trajectory for walking resembles the negatively accelerated performance curves characteristic of most motor learning tasks. Initial rapid improvements in the first 3–6 months of walking reflect infants’ discovery of the relevant parameters that control upright balance and propulsion 72 , 74 – 76 . A protracted tapering-off period ending between 5–7 years of age reflects subtle fine-tuning of gait parameters 70 , 77 . Practice, not merely maturation, underlies improvements 72 , and infants accumulate immense amount of practice. In one hour of free play, the average toddler takes about 2400 steps, travels the length of about 8 American football fields, and falls 17 times 78 .

Sufficient practice can lead to improvements in endurance, strength, coordination, and balance far beyond the norm for Western walkers 4 , 40 . Tarahumaran children engage in long-distance running as part of daily activity. As a consequence, endurance running exceeds the abilities of most Western ultra-marathoners: Tarahumaran children routinely run 10–40 km in a few hours and adults race 150–300 km over 24–48 hours 79 . From childhood, East African women and Nepalese porters of both genders carry prodigious loads on their heads. Adults in these cultures have learned to alter the biomechanics of gait so as to carry loads greater than their body weight with reduced energetic cost 80 , 81 .

Obstacle Navigation

Perception-action coupling makes locomotion functional. To navigate the everyday cluttered environment, children must select the appropriate movements and modify them accordingly, whether crawling, walking, or riding a bicycle 82 . Children generate the requisite perceptual information through exploratory movements—looking, touching, and testing various options 7 , 64 , 83 . The first studies of obstacle navigation tested infants on a “visual cliff,” a drop-off covered in safety glass 84 . But infants in such studies can feel the glass and, after one trial, they learn that the drop-off is only illusory—and so they cross 85 . As shown in Figure 6 , recent researchers have used real cliffs, bridges, waterbeds, foam pits, water pits, slippery surfaces, barriers, apertures, monkey bars, car-filled streets, and other obstacles to test the development of prospective control of locomotion 65 , 66 , 82 , 86 – 92 . Because visual and haptic information are not in conflict on these apparatuses, children can be tested in dozens of trials (an experimenter follows alongside to ensure their safety). Many of the apparatuses are adjustable, allowing precise assessment of children’s ability to gauge possibilities for locomotion.

(A) “Visual cliff” with safety glass covering an apparent drop-off. (B) Real cliff with adjustable height of drop-off. (C) Sitting at the edge of an adjustable gap. (D) Cruising an adjustable gap in the handrail. (E) Walking across adjustable bridges. (F) Crawling down an adjustable slope. (G) Walking down a slope with a Teflon-coated section. Adapted from 180 .

Prelocomotor infants are sensitive to visual flow for heading 93 and depth information for a drop-off 94 , but sensitivity is not enough. Mobile infants must learn to navigate. In their first weeks after acquiring a new posture—sitting, crawling, cruising, and walking—infants plunge repeatedly over the edge of impossibly steep slopes, high cliffs, and wide gaps. Over weeks of experience with each posture, judgments improve so that infants attempt safe increments within their ability and avoid risky obstacles beyond their ability 7 , 40 .

A surprising finding is that learning does not transfer from earlier to later developing postures. The same infants who perceive that a large gap precludes scooting or leaning over the edge in an experienced sitting posture will repeatedly attempt to crawl over the gap in a novice crawling posture 95 . The same infants who perceive that a large cliff or slope is impossible to descend in an experienced crawling posture will repeatedly attempt to walk when tested in a novice walking posture 64 – 66 . In a cruising posture, pre-walking infants perceive precisely how large of a gap they can span with their arms, but not with their legs 14 . Clearly, failure to transfer from earlier to later developing postures is not due to fear of heights because the gaps, slopes, and drop-offs are high above the ground in every posture 96 . Moreover, infants are not learning fixed facts about the environment or their abilities because possibilities for action change from week to week as locomotor skills improve. Instead, infants are learning to generate and use perceptual information about the current status of their body relative to the environment 7 , 40 . They are learning the relevant parameters for each new posture in development and the relevant exploratory behaviors for calibrating those parameters in a new situation.

Summary: Locomotion

Fetuses and neonates can produce leg and arm movements that grossly resemble locomotion, but locomotion is not hardwired or reflexive. Instead locomotor development is tremendously plastic and responsive to caregiving practices. And locomotion is wildly creative. Every infant discovers a unique solution for their first crawling, walking, bum shuffling, or rolling “steps.” And then they must learn to generate information for perception and cognition to find the right solution to suit the local constraints of the cluttered, obstacle strewn everyday environment.

Manual Action

Manual actions begin prenatally, but outside the womb, infants require a stable postural base to support arm movements and perceptual information to guide movements adaptively. Tools extend children’s manual abilities 7 , 97 , 98 .

Spontaneous Motility

Like all actions, manual actions appear long before birth. Ten-week-old fetuses flex and extend their arms, wiggle their fingers, and clench their fists 99 , 100 . By 14 weeks, fetuses manually explore their own bodies, the umbilical cord, and the surface of the uterine wall 101 . By 16 weeks, fetuses bring hand to mouth to suck their thumbs 102 . Even these early actions are perceptually guided and planned: Infants open their mouths in anticipation of, not in reaction to, the arrival of their thumb 103 .

Spontaneous arm and hand movements continue after birth. Throughout the first year, infants flap their arms, rotate their hands, and wiggle their fingers, and exhibit bouts of rhythmical waving, rubbing, and banging while holding objects 51 , 104 , 105 . Ironically, such so-called “stereotypies” may not be stereotyped at all. Infants’ first banging movements are highly variable in terms of arm trajectory. Banging becomes increasingly uniform with the arm repeatedly tracing the same upward and downward path 98 , 106 .

Reaching and Grasping

As in locomotion, the contextual influences of infants’ bodies, physical environment, and social/cultural environment affect the development of manual skills. And individual infants forge their own developmental trajectories. Some infants learn to reach in the context of spontaneous arm flaps; they stiffen the arm joints to dampen inertial forces and direct the arm more in the direction of the target 107 . Other infants learn to reach more conventionally, by powering up their stationary arms in the presence of a target. In both cases, initial attempts are usually unsuccessful.

Goal-directed reaching requires perceptual information about the location of the object vis-a-vis the hand. Given appropriate postural support, neonates and young infants show precursors of visually guided reaching, extending their arms more frequently while looking at a toy 108 , 109 . Successful toy contacts appear between 11 and 24 weeks of age 110 – 112 , but reaches are jerky and crooked; the arm speeds up, slows down, and changes direction several times prior to contact. It takes years before children’s reaches become as smooth and straight as those of adults 110 , 113 . Infants “reach” with their feet at a slightly younger age than they reach with their hands ( Figure 7 ), showing that cephalocaudal (head to feet) development is only a rule of thumb, not an obligatory law of development 114 .

Three-month-old infant “feet reaching” by contacting an object with the foot. From 180 .

At about the same age that infants contact stationary targets, they show evidence of prospective control in dynamic situations by intercepting moving targets. As the toy moves along a horizontal path, infants time their arm movements so that their hand arrives at the location where the object will be, rather than where it was at the start of the reach 115 – 117 . Visual information for frontally approaching targets is different: The toy expands in the field of view. By 8 to 9 months of age, infants precisely gauge whether balls approaching at different speeds are catchable and they initiate interceptive arm movements based on visual information for time to contact 118 .

Older children and adults rely on view of the hand as well as view of the target to guide reaching 119 , 120 . However, young infants do not benefit from being able to see their moving hand. Researchers can measure the importance of continual visual feedback by turning off the lights once a reach begins (the toy glows to mark its location) or by occluding sight of the hand and arm with a cloth barrier. Infants begin reaching for objects in the light and dark at the same age, and are equally successful in both conditions 112 . Moreover, the kinematics of infants’ reaching trajectories in the light and dark are indistinguishable 121 and do not require sight of the hand 122 . In other words, infants’ zigzag reach trajectories do not necessarily mean that they visually track their hand because infants display equally jerky reaches when they cannot see their hand. Jerky trajectories may result in part from postural constraints 17 and unanticipated reactive forces 110 .

Much to infants’ frustration, getting the hand to the right place is only part of the problem. Reaching precedes grasping because control of the arms precedes control of the hands. Normally, 3-month-olds merely swat at objects because they lack the requisite hand control for grasping and do not use perceptual information about object properties to plan the grasp. However, with the help of sticky Velcro mittens and Velcro covered toys, swats are sufficient to pick up an object, thereby allowing “pre-graspers” to reap some of the benefits of grasping objects that only older infants normally experience 123 . These early benefits have both immediate and long-lasting effects on manual skill 124 – 126 . With increased hand/finger control, infants adapt their grip configuration to object properties, but they do so after contacting the object, not prospectively during the reach 127 . Prospective control of grasping based on visual information for object size, orientation, and substance appears months after infants begin reaching 128 – 131 .

Exploring Objects

An object in hand opens up new opportunities for visual, manual, and oral exploration, and with increasing skill, object exploration becomes increasingly multi-modal 132 , 133 . At first, infants use their hands only to bring objects up to the face for looking and mouthing 134 . Increased grip strength allows infants to alternate between looking and mouthing, providing multimodal information about object properties. Soon, manual skills progress beyond mere holding. Infants heft, rub, squeeze, and finger objects 31 , 133 , 135 . Later, infants coordinate visual and manual exploration by transferring objects from hand to hand and rotating them in front of their eyes 25 . Hands begin to serve complementary functions, one supporting the object and keeping it in view, the other generating information about object properties by fingering or palpating 136 . Infants explore the relations between object and surface properties by banging a hard block against a rigid surface to make a noise or rubbing a soft block against the surface 105 .

Extending Abilities with Tools

Tool use has its roots in early motor actions and relies on motor actions for its execution 97 , 98 , 106 . Young infants’ spontaneous banging and rubbing become preschoolers’ hammering and drawing. Fetal hand-to-mouth behaviors become self-feeding with a spoon. Exploring relations between objects and surfaces sets the stage for using objects as effective tools.

Tool use requires infants to perceive that a goal is beyond their abilities, recognize that an object can serve as a means to augment their abilities, and execute the necessary movements to use the tool. Each of these steps in real time must first be acquired in development. For example, very young infants perceive when an object is out of reach 137 . Months later, they use hooks, canes, and rakes to acquire out-of-reach objects, but only if the target object is already placed inside the crook of the tool 138 – 140 . And still later they perceive the full implications of the spatial relations by orienting the tools to place the target in the crook. Observing caregivers or other adults use a tool effectively provides a powerful impetus for learning 140

Implementation often stands in the way of functional tool use. Nine-month-olds grasp a spoon filled with applesauce by the bowl end rather than by the handle (getting a handful of applesauce), or with a grip that points the food away from the mouth so that they cannot eat ( Figure 8 ). Eighteen-month-olds perceive the optimal grasp for delivering food to their own mouth and plan their grasp prospectively, but their planning is less efficient when feeding a doll 141 – 143 . Two-year-olds adapt their grasp to use a spoon with a bent handle 144 . But even 4-year-olds fail to realize that they must use an underhand grip to grasp a spoon or hammer pointing away from their dominant hand 145 . Implementing a writing or drawing instrument poses similar problems for older children 146 . Three-year-olds use eleven different grip configurations to draw straight lines (including using both hands to hold the pen) and individual children vary their grips from trial to trial ( Figure 8 ). Variability decreases by 5 years of age when most children begin formal schooling, and children converge on one of the two common adult grips.

Nine-month-old infant grasping a spoon (A) by the bowl or (B) with an ulnar grip that points the bowl away from the mouth. (C) An 18-month-old using a radial grip that correctly brings food to the mouth. (D) Variety of pen grips used by 3- and 5-year-olds and adults. Adapted from 142 , 146 .

Summary: Manual Action

Beginning prenatally, manual actions are perceptually guided and serve exploratory functions. Many of infants’ spontaneous arm and hand movements are co-opted for goal-directed manual actions and tool use. Infants use vision to locate the target of a reach and to preshape their hand for grasping, but they do not require sight of their hand to get it to a target. Exploring objects is a multimodal activity involving eyes, hands, fingers, and mouth. Boosting up manual skills can jump-start the cascade of opportunities for learning.

Facial Action

All the parts of the face begin moving prenatally, including the eyes while they are still fused shut. After birth, infants continue to produce spontaneous facial movements, but facial actions become integral to everyday function. The simple ability to swallow is critical for suckling, eating, and talking. Vocalizations and facial expressions are fundamental for communication. Head and eye movements provide the basis for visual exploration of the environment.

Swallowing, Sucking, and Chewing

Actions like swallowing are normally so innocuous that we don’t recognize the tremendous coordination required. Fetuses make swallowing, sucking, and breathing movements, but since they do not breathe air or eat, the movements are not coordinated 147 . However, to nurse without choking or swallowing air, newborns must coordinate movements of tongue, jaws, and lips to create suction, draw liquid into the mouth, pull the liquid into the pharynx, and divert the liquid to the esophagus while pulling air into the trachea 148 – 150 . Infants solve the timing problem by coordinating suck-swallow-respiration patterns at a ratio of 1:1:1 or 2:2:1 151 – 153 .

Chewing solid food is more complicated because the food must be masticated before it can be swallowed. Newborns can mush up a small piece of banana and move it around the mouth with jaws and tongue 154 . However, infants rely on lateral jaw movements to do most of the work of chewing, whereas older children and adults use rotary jaw movements and incorporate more prospective actions of the lips and tongue 155 . Infants produce the same chewing movements regardless of the type of food, whereas older children select appropriate jaw movements and muscle forces based on the food consistency 155 .

Facial Gestures and Speech

Facial expressions and vocalizations appear long before infants can convey feelings and communicate ideas. Fetuses produce smiles, grimaces, and facial movements that resemble adult-like expressions of laughter, crying, and pain 156 , 157 . Neonates produce characteristic facial gestures to strong stimuli such as nose wrinkling and furrowed brows to noxious smells 158 . Newborns smile most while asleep, about one smile every five minutes 159 , 160 . Awake infants begin to display social smiles and laughter by 2 to 5 months of age while gazing at caregivers or in response to positive stimulation 161 . Perhaps because they are so critical for social interaction, facial expressions are highly redundant so that muscles distributed throughout the face work in concert; eyebrows can convey basic facial expressions as effectively as the mouth. In fact, infants who lack the ability to move specific parts of their faces due to severe craniofacial anomalies, cleft lip/palate, or hemangiomas produce recognizable smiles, cries, and interested expressions 162 .

The movements needed for speech production are perhaps the most complex movements children learn 163 . The jaws, lips, and tongue must be precisely positioned to shape each sound as air travels through the oral and nasal cavities. Both speed and accuracy are major challenges in speech development. Adult-like speech is incredibly fast, encompassing up to 15 sounds per second 163 . As in the development of chewing, infants discover functional strategies to produce speech sounds, but their movements are not adult-like. For example, adults use quick simultaneous movements of the jaws and lips to babble (baba, mama), whereas infants rely primarily on jaw movements, which are easier to control 164 . Between 2–6 years of age, children gain better control over their lips and incorporate those movements into the previously established jaw movements, allowing them to produce a greater variety of speech sounds 148 .

Visual perception involves pointing the eyes in the right direction. But looking usually involves more than moving the eyes. It involves coordination among body, head, and eyes to bring a desired location into view 165 . For newborns who can barely turn their heads, the control problem is simplified: They typically watch whatever happens to be in front of them, whether faces, hands, objects, or more complex scenes 166 – 168 . Even after posture improves and infants can sit, crawl, and walk, much of what they see is opportunistic. Toddlers are less likely to tilt their head up to look at mother’s face than to point their gaze straight ahead at her knees; they see what’s in their hands or someone else’s hands because the hands are already in their field of view 23 , 169 – 171 .

Like other motor actions, looking is more functional and adaptive when eye, head, and body movements are controlled prospectively. To track a moving object, infants must anticipate its speed and trajectory to keep their eyes moving at the right pace. Large targets moving in predictable ways are easier for young infants to smoothly pursue with their eyes 172 . When the target moves too quickly, the eyes lag behind, so infants often make corrective saccades to catch up to the target. Over months of practice, infants track smaller targets at faster speeds 173 , resorting less often to corrective saccades. Initially, infants keep their eyes on the target, but their head lags behind. By 4–5 months, infants coordinate movements of eyes and head to smoothly follow moving objects 174 . While watching an object move repeatedly behind an occluder, 4-month-olds keep their eyes on the point where the object disappeared and then struggle to catch up to its motion after it appears on the other side; 6-month-olds visually anticipate the location where the object will reappear, indicating their understanding that the object exists even when it is out of sight 175 .

As in the case of walking, infants amass tremendous amounts of experience while learning to look. In one day, infants shift their gaze roughly 50,000 times 176 . By 2 months of age, infants have accumulated 200 hours of visual experience 175 and by 3.5 months of age, researchers estimate that infants have produced 3–6 million eye movements 177 . However, researchers know very little about what infants actually see outside of the laboratory. Head-mounted eye tracking provides a new method for observing infants’ eye movements during unconstrained, spontaneous activity. As shown in Figure 9 , infants wear two small cameras that record their eye movements and field of view for real-time gaze processing. Toddlers seamlessly distribute visual attention among multiple motor tasks, looking toward obstacles to guide crawling and walking, fixating objects to guide the hand while reaching, and glancing occasionally at caregivers to initiate or respond to social interactions 169 . Visual guidance becomes increasingly efficient over the course of development. Quick glances toward obstacles from a distance elicit more costly types of exploration such as touching 83 . Infants’ short bodies serendipitously contribute to successful obstacle navigation because their field of view includes more of the floor compared with older children and adults, who primarily guide locomotion with visual information from the periphery 178 .

(A) Head-mounted eye-tracker worn by a 14-month-old infant. An outward facing “scene camera” records the infant’s field of view, and an inward facing “eye camera” records movements of the infant’s right eye. Computer software calculates point of gaze. (B) Processed gaze video with red crosshair showing the infant’s point of gaze. From 169 .

Summary: Facial Action

Facial actions include many of our most prized and basic social skills—talking, facial gestures, eating and drinking, and looking at others and at the environment. And each of these skills sets off a new cascade of interactions. Infants’ solutions for moving the various parts of their face often differ from those of adults, but they get the job done in that developmental niche.

The study of motor development is really the study of behavioral development. As such, it can provide a useful window into general processes of development because the topic of study—movement—is directly observable. Researchers in motor development have always recognized the importance of the bodily context 7 . How could they do otherwise? Movements depend on physical forces and the moment-to-moment changes and developmental status of the body affect forces. The developmental systems perspective encourages researchers also to consider a larger context that includes the physical and social/cultural environment, and to view motor behaviors as potentially both cause and consequence of developmental change in other psychological domains. Although prominent developmental theorists have long recognized the importance of motor development for psychological development more generally 5 , 6 , only recently have researchers begun to systematically map out these developmental pathways.

Acknowledgments

The writing of this article was supported by NICHD Grant R37-HD33486 to K. E. Adolph.

Contributor Information

Karen E. Adolph, New York University.

John M. Franchak, University of California, Riverside.

Further Reading

• Adolph KE, Berger SE. Motor development. In: Kuhn D, Siegler RS, editors. Handbook of child psychology: Vol. 2 Cognition, perception, and language. 6th. New York: Wiley; 2006. pp. 161–213. [ Google Scholar ]
• Gibson EJ, Pick AD. An ecological approach to perceptual learning and development. New York, NY: Oxford University Press; 2000. [ Google Scholar ]
• Smitsman AW, Corbetta D. Action in infancy: Perspectives, concepts, and challenges. In: Bremner JG, Wachs TD, editors. The Wiley-Blackwell Handbook of Infant Development. 2. Chichester, West Sussex, England: Wiley-Blackwell Ltd; 2010. pp. 167–203. [ Google Scholar ]
• Thelen E. Motor development: A new synthesis. American Psychologist. 1995; 50 :79–95. [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

Our resources are running out. These charts show how urgently action is needed

“With decisive action by politicians and the private sector, a decent life for all is possible without costing the Earth," says the IRP’s Co-Chair, Janez Potočnik. Image:  Unsplash/NASA

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.chakra .wef-9dduvl{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-9dduvl{font-size:1.125rem;}} Explore and monitor how .chakra .wef-15eoq1r{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;color:#F7DB5E;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-15eoq1r{font-size:1.125rem;}} Future of the Environment is affecting economies, industries and global issues

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Stay up to date:, sustainable development.

• Global natural resource consumption is forecast to rise 60% by 2060, compared with 2020 levels, according to the United Nations.
• Increasing demand for resources is due to urbanization, industrialization and a growing population, which is leading to severe consequences such as biodiversity loss, water stress, climate change and air pollution, it says.
• Disrupted supply chains for critical goods and resources were among the top risks identified in the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2024 .

We’re racing into a resources crisis that’s set to intensify unless urgent action is taken.

Global natural resource consumption is predicted to increase by 60% by 2060, compared with 2020 levels , according to the United Nations Environment Programme's Global Resources Outlook, a report by the UN's International Resource Panel. That’s after material use grew more than three times over the past 50 years, it said.

Resources include crops for food, wood for energy, fossil fuels, metals like iron, aluminium and copper, non-metallic minerals, as well as land and water.

“It is no longer whether a transformation towards global sustainable resource consumption and production is necessary, but how to urgently make it happen,” said Janez Potocnik and Izabella Teixeirq, International Resource Panel (IRP) co-chairs.

The pace at which we’re using our planet’s resources has a connection to almost every aspect of our lives. This exploitation is the main driver for the triple planetary crises , which are defined by the United Nations as the climate crisis, biodiversity loss and the pollution crisis, according to the IRP.

The Global Rewiring report highlighted that collective thinking on global value chains is changing due to increasing disruptions driven by geopolitical tension, climate change, and technological shifts.

The World Economic Forum’s Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains is at the forefront of future-proofing the global manufacturing industry. It supports sustainable growth by fostering innovation and accelerating the adoption of inclusive technology.

Learn more about our impact:

• The Global Lighthouse Network : We have brought together 132 manufacturing factories from various industries who are applying advanced technologies to boost productivity, enabling them to scale and replicate innovations.
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• Resiliency : In partnership with Kearney, we developed the Resiliency Compass to help guide companies in navigating supply chain disruptions and enhancing their resilience.

Want to know more about our centre’s impact or get involved? Contact us .

Disrupted supply chains for critical goods and resources were among the top risks identified in the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2024 for the current risk landscape. Environmental risks were another significant concern identified in that report, with extreme weather ranked as the top risk likely to cause a global crisis in 2024.

Even so, the writers of the report still see scope to reduce resource use while growing the economy and achieving the other UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This will require a “decoupling” so that the environmental impacts of resource use fall, while the well-being contributions increase, they say.

“Reorienting demand and allowing resource use to grow where it is most needed will open pathways to achieving the SDGs and a shared and equitable prosperity for all,” the report says. Bold policy action will be required and there must be a “much stronger focus on demand-side – consumption – measures”.

High-income countries use six times more materials per capita and are responsible for 10 times more climate impacts per capita than low-income countries. Material inequalities must be addressed as a core element of any approach, the report warns.

In areas where consumption levels are high, there needs to be a focus on lowering resource and material consumption levels and on efficiency. This could help reduce around 30% of resource use around the world compared with historical trends, it says. In countries where resource use needs to grow, it is possible to use strategies that maximize the value we get from resources.

Directing finance towards sustainable resource use is one potential solution, the report suggests, by making sure the true costs of resources are reflected in the structure of the economy. Providing consumers with information and access to sustainable goods and services is also crucial.

Regulation has an important role to play in disincentivizing or banning resource-intensive options – for example non-essential single-use plastic products, the report points out. Business models that build in refuse, reduce, eco-design, reuse, repair, and recycling initiatives are also necessary.

Much needs to be done to transform our built environments, and the ways we move around, and consume food and energy. High- and upper-middle-income countries could also shift away from animal protein.

“We should not accept that meeting human needs must be resource intensive, and we must stop stimulating extraction-based economic success,” said the IRP’s Co-Chair, Janez Potočnik. “With decisive action by politicians and the private sector, a decent life for all is possible without costing the Earth.”

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Sec charges lordstown motors with misleading investors about company’s flagship electric vehicle, company’s former auditor charged with violating auditor independence standards.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2024-29

Washington D.C., Feb. 29, 2024 —

The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged Lordstown Motors Corp. with misleading investors about the sales prospects of Lordstown’s flagship electric pickup truck, the Endurance. Lordstown, which filed for bankruptcy in 2023, went public by merging with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) in 2020.

According to the SEC’s settled order, Lordstown exaggerated the demand for the Endurance, claiming that the company had received more than 100,000 nonbinding “pre-orders” for the vehicle from commercial fleet customers when, in reality, most of the pre-orders came from companies that did not operate fleets or intend to buy the truck for their own use. The SEC’s order also found that Lordstown misrepresented the company’s timeline for delivering the Endurance by failing to account for production delays partially due to Lordstown’s inability to access many critical parts.

“We allege that, in a highly competitive race to deliver the first mass-produced electric pickup truck to the U.S. market, Lordstown oversold true demand for the Endurance,” said Mark Cave, Associate Director of the Division of Enforcement. “Exaggerations that misrepresent a public company’s competitive advantages distort the capital markets and foil investors’ ability to make informed decisions about where to put their money.”

The order finds that Lordstown violated certain antifraud, proxy, and reporting provisions of the federal securities laws. Without admitting or denying the SEC’s findings and subject to bankruptcy court approval, Lordstown agreed to a cease-and-desist order and disgorgement of $25.5 million, which will be deemed satisfied by payments of up to $25.5 million by Lordstown and other defendants to resolve certain pending class actions against them.

The SEC also instituted a related, settled administrative proceeding against Lordstown’s former auditor, Clark Schaefer Hackett and Co. (CSH). CSH provided certain non-audit services, including bookkeeping and financial statement services, to Lordstown during CSH’s audit of the company’s financial statements when it was a private entity. CSH then audited the same financial statements in connection with Lordstown’s merger with the SPAC and thus violated auditor independence standards of the SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. Without admitting or denying the SEC’s findings, CSH agreed to a censure, a cease-and-desist order, the payment of more than $80,000 in civil penalties, disgorgement, and interest, and certain undertakings to improve its policies and procedures.

The SEC’s investigation, which is ongoing, was conducted by Carolyn Winters, Mark Oh, and John Higgins, with assistance from David Baddley, Suzanne Romajas, and Peter Lallas, and supervised by Jeff Leasure, Kristen Dieter, Alistaire Bambach, James Carlson, and Mr. Cave.

Related Materials

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Snyder's Soapbox: Spring training results don't mean much, but we can and should enjoy the games all the same

There's simply no reason to be that guy who yells at the people who like spring training action.

Welcome to Snyder's Soapbox! Here I pontificate about a matter related to Major League Baseball on a weekly basis. Some of the topics will be pressing matters, some might seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things and most will be somewhere in between. The good thing about this website is it's free and you are allowed to click away. If you stay, you'll get smarter, though, that's a money-back guarantee. Let's get to it.

Spring training is fun. It's time for players to prepare for the season that actually matters, unlike these exhibition games. Just get up to speed for the regular season and don't get hurt, please. As for fans, there's a sweet spot for us to not take it too seriously and instead just enjoy it for what it is. As always here on the Soapbox, I'll explain. 

Late in spring training of 2016, I got a text message from a friend of my dad's who is also a die-hard Cubs fan (hi, readers who are new here! I'm a Cubs fan and and it hasn't ever been a secret ). He wondered if there was any reason for concern with the woeful W-L record the Cubs were posting in spring training. I told him no, there was absolutely no reason to worry. 

The Cubs would end up going 11-19 that spring. Then they won 25 of their first 31 regular-season games en route to a 103-win regular season and World Series title. 

So, no, there was no reason for concern, as I correctly noted during the spring. There never is in the spring unless there are major injuries. It is practice. Some players are looking to perform their best in order to make the team, but some veterans are just getting in their work before hitting the golf course. There are youngsters out there looking to make their mark and old guys working on a tweak. 

Back in 2014, Edwin Jackson threw 50 pitches in a spring game and every single one was a fastball . He was working on fastball command that day, a perfect illustration of how -- in the parlance of Allen Iverson -- we're talking about practice, man . 

In these practice games, we're going to see the best players make some good plays. We're also going to see bad from good players and good from players we might never see in the majors. It's all over the board. Obviously, that means the team performances just don't mean anything at all. Just look at last year. 

• The Cardinals were 17-7 in the spring and then finished last in the NL Central. 
• The Marlins were a Grapefruit League worst 7-16 and then made the playoffs for the first time in a full season since 2003.
• The Rangers were 13-15 in Cactus League action and then started the regular season 14-7. Oh, and they won the World Series. 
• Which two teams had the best record in the Cactus League? Why, the Angels and Royals , of course. Everyone knew that, right? 

You can find good teams that played well and bad teams that played poorly, too. It's just all over the board with no correlation to regular-season performance. The same goes for individual performances. 

The top five in spring OPS last year included Corbin Carroll and Corey Seager . The other three? Blake Sabol , Ezequiel Duran and Robbie Grossman . The spring leader in home runs was Matt Olson ! The next two were Mike Brosseau and Romy Gonzalez . Marcus Semien was in the bottom five in OPS. Once the games mattered, he was good enough to finish third in MVP voting. 

Needless to say, I don't pay any attention at all to spring performance on the team level or really on a player level either. Sometimes it can be instructive to what how a player looks when he's coming off major injury. It's always interesting to follow a would-be rookie and see him play well (such as Wyatt Langford of the Rangers last weekend ). 

Generally, though, you don't want to be the person worried about spring training numbers when drafting a fantasy team, making predictions or placing wagers on the season to come. It just doesn't translate and never has. 

Of course, there's a balance to be had here and I want to be clear. I absolutely loathe the person who tells others what they are allowed to enjoy. I am not saying to ignore spring training. Going to a spring training game is much more affordable than the regular season, generally speaking (there are always exceptions and circumstances). It is great fun. Most of the time you'll get great weather and a good number of players will cycle through the game. You'll see a mix of big-leaguers and unproven youngsters. You can socialize instead of paying attention to every single pitch and sometimes it's more fun to just kick back and mindlessly enjoy things. 

If you've ever gone to minor-league games, I find it similar other than the setting (since I'm from the Midwest, I don't exactly see palm trees or cactuses at minor-league parks, for example). 

Watching spring training action on TV, I find focusing too much on every intricate detail like we do in the regular season (pitch velocity, exit velocity, etc.) is overkill, especially since these are practice games. BUT! Some people really like worrying about that when they are watching any game. There's no harm in a to each his/her/their own stance. That's one of the core tenets of my personality here in my middle-aged years. 

By all means, please enjoy the ever-living hell out of the spring training action. I'm absolutely not saying you can't or shouldn't. I wouldn't do that. I'm just saying to please keep in mind that the results of what you are watching just don't have any bearing on the regular season and/or playoffs. If anything, this should help you enjoy it even more. Remove the stress and just have fun spectating.

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FHP: Motorcyclist dies after colliding with light pole

TAMPA, Fla. — A motorcyclist is dead after he collided with a light pole in Tampa early Sunday morning, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) said.

Officials said a Harley Davidson motorcycle was traveling north on U.S. 301 approaching Stannum Street when the rider failed to navigate a curve in the roadway.

As a result, the motorcyclist left the roadway and hit a utility light pole.

The rider, a 68-year-old Brandon man, was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from injuries suffered during the crash.

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