Ponant emerges as a leader in maritime sustainability, exceeding environmental goals effectively.
- Ponant is the pioneer in achieving Green Globe certification, showcasing significant environmental strides.
- The company plans a groundbreaking zero-emission sailing ship by 2030, setting new industry standards.
- Experienced leadership under Belinda Hindmarsh reinforces Ponant’s commitment to sustainable travel.
- Ponant continues to innovate, focusing on reducing emissions and enhancing eco-friendly technology.
In a bold move towards environmental stewardship, Ponant is leading the charge in the cruise industry by exceeding set sustainability goals well ahead of schedule. The company’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact is underscored by its recent achievement of Green Globe certification, a testament to its rigorous environmental standards and practices. This recognition places Ponant at the forefront of sustainable maritime operations, significantly reducing its ships’ carbon footprints.
Ponant’s future-oriented vision includes the ambitious launch of a zero-emission sailing ship by 2030. This vessel is designed to operate entirely without greenhouse gas emissions in all phases of its operation – sailing, manoeuvring, and when stationed at port or anchorage. Such innovation not only highlights Ponant’s dedication to sustainability but also challenges the cruise industry to adopt more eco-friendly technologies.
Belinda Hindmarsh, who stepped into the role of group deputy chief executive last year, brings with her extensive experience in travel and sustainability. Her decision to join Ponant was heavily influenced by the company’s strong environmental ethos, which aligns with her values. Hindmarsh has been pivotal in steering the company towards new sustainable practices and leveraging her expertise to enhance Ponant’s environmental initiatives.
Sustainability is not just an initiative at Ponant; it is integrated into the very core of its operations, forming part of the company’s DNA from its inception. Founded on the principles of sustainable expeditions, Ponant has consistently prioritised eco-friendly travel, supported by forward-thinking shareholders committed to environmental causes. The company switched to more sustainable fuels in 2019, keeping it well ahead of industry targets and focused on reducing emissions further.
While travellers demonstrate a growing awareness and concern for sustainability, Ponant acknowledges that willingness to incur higher costs for eco-friendly travel remains limited. In this gap, Ponant has stepped up, driving innovation to offer near-zero carbon emission sailings, striving to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable maritime travel.
In addition to new vessels, Ponant is exploring ways to incorporate advanced technology into its existing fleet, further reducing emissions across all its operations. With a growing fleet that now includes the luxury icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot and the forthcoming Spirit of Ponant catamaran, the company is expanding its capacity for offering environmentally conscious cruises. This fleet expansion underscores Ponant’s leadership in both polar and tropical expedition cruises, showcasing its versatile approach to sustainable travel.
Ponant’s commitment to sustainability exemplifies a progressive vision in maritime travel, setting an example for environmental responsibility.
