Ponant provides update on three-pronged sustainability strategy

A three-pronged sustainability strategy is being employed by Ponant as the expedition line target net-zero emissions by 2050.

The French company outlined the ‘Blue Horizon’ objectives in its latest sustainability report, which claimed an 11% reduction in CO2 emissions per cruise day last year compared to 2018.

The 62-page report covering 2023 details efforts to protect nature, improve wellbeing in the workplace and raising awareness of efforts to cut the company’s ecological footprint     

The initiatives focus on reducing environmental footprint and enhancing the 13-ship line’s positive contribution, “leveraging the best available technologies”. 

The company added: “Alongside ongoing onboard initiatives, Ponant’s R&D team is working on concrete projects towards carbon neutrality.”

The company trialled the use of biofuel, which generates 90% fewer CO2 emissions than fossil fuels. 

“With 12 vessels already certified for biofuel use, Ponant has laid the groundwork for reaching the 2050 goal of net-zero emissions,” according to the report.

All onboard waste is now separated and sorted on ships and 73% of drinking water was generated from seawater through a filtering system installed on 92% of the fleet’s ships.

“Single-use plastics were reduced, and more than 20 tons were avoided fleet-wide,” the report added.

Pontant also continues to support research into marine ecosystems and environmental changes with an increased budget of €2.2 million last year.

This science programme will be expanded in 2025 to include additional vessels, enhancing support for scientific research across different remote areas of the globe.

Head of CSR and sustainability Wassim Daoud said: “Although we are proud of our accomplishments, we acknowledge that the journey toward sustainable tourism is ongoing. 

“Through innovation and collaboration, Ponant aims to set the highest industry standard for more accountable and transparent sustainability practices.”