PONANT released its 2023 Sustainability Report, showcasing the company’s significant strides in redefining tourism through eco-friendly innovations and tangible reductions in its environmental footprint. PONANT is pushing boundaries and setting new standards for meaningful and sustainable travel.

A Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

“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,” says Wassim Daoud, Head of CSR and Sustainability at PONANT.

PONANT’s three-part sustainability roadmap focuses on reducing environmental impact while amplifying positive contributions through cutting-edge technologies. The company’s R&D team is actively developing projects aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.

Key Achievements in 2023

Reduction in CO2 Emissions: By investing in a modern fleet, PONANT has achieved an 11% reduction in CO2 emissions per cruise day compared to 2018. In 2023, the company trialed B100 biofuel, which generates 90% fewer CO2 emissions than fossil fuels. With 12 vessels certified for biofuel use, PONANT is on track to reach its 2050 goal of net-zero emissions. The PONANT Explorer vessel Le Champlain trailed B100 biofuel, produced from recycled edible oils in France, marking a significant milestone.

Zero Plastic Objective: PONANT’s state-of-the-art wastewater treatment systems and strict on-board waste sorting practices have made a positive impact. In 2023, 73% of on-board drinking water was generated from seawater through the Nordaq filtering system, installed on 92% of the fleet’s ships. This initiative has significantly reduced single-use plastics, avoiding more than 20 tons fleet-wide. The installation of water fountains and recyclable glass containers has led to the avoidance of nearly 820,000 plastic water bottles in 2023 compared to 2019.

Support for Local Communities: PONANT is committed to building partnerships with the communities they encounter. In French Polynesia, the m/s Paul Gauguin brought in doctors and nurses to visit remote communities, providing 40 medical consultations per year. A partnership with the Royal Arctic Line enabled Le Commandant Charcot to deliver food supplies to Inuit communities in Greenland, helping them emerge from winter isolation early.

PONANT Science Program: PONANT continues to support research into marine ecosystems and environmental changes. In 2023, Le Commandant Charcot hosted 31 scientific missions with two dedicated laboratories and equipment for various research activities in polar regions. The science budget increased to EUR 2.2 million, supporting over 175 researchers since 2021. The program will expand in 2025 to include additional vessels, enhancing support for scientific research globally.

Looking Ahead

PONANT’s 2023 Sustainability Report highlights the company’s dedication to pioneering sustainable travel. Through continuous innovation and collaboration, PONANT is leading the way in responsible tourism, advancing towards its long-term vision of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Discover the full 2023 CSR Report to learn more about PONANT’s journey and future initiatives.

PONANT’s efforts demonstrate that sustainable tourism is not just a goal but a continuous journey. As the company sets new standards, it inspires the entire industry to follow suit, ensuring a greener future for travel.