PONANT, world-leader in luxury expeditions, is at the forefront of efforts to minimise shore-side atmospheric emissions during port calls. Since the installation of the PONANT Explorer’s series by 2022, Le Bellot makes port calls in into Hafnarfjörður, Iceland, where the engines are powered down and the ship seamlessly connects to the port’s electricity network.
“We are exploring numerous options to achieve the goal of cutting our CO2-per-sailing-day emissions by 30% by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2040. We are among the first operators to invest in shore-side power connection systems. We can now partner with ports that have this facility to assess the effects and constraints of these technologies in real-life conditions. Our feedback will benefit the whole sector by contributing to ramping up the power of this equipment,” explains PONANT General Secretary, Patrick Augier.
100% of the PONANT fleet to be equipped with shore-side power connections by the end of 2026.
Four vessels from the PONANT Explorer’s series – Le Bellot, Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques-Cartier and Le Champlain – have shore power connections enabling them to link up with a port’s electricity grid. Two of the Sisterships – L’Austral and Le Boréal are scheduled to be fitted in 2024 with the entire fleet set to be equipped by 2026.
PONANT’s commitment to shore power involves a substantial investment of one million euros per ship. This strategic deployment not only decreases atmospheric emissions but also contributes to a substantial reduction in the company’s overall carbon footprint.
“At PONANT, we proudly lead the way in sustainable maritime practices, passionately dedicated to forging a greener future for responsible tourism both locally and globally,” affirms PONANT CEO for Asia Pacific and Special Advisor Chris Hall. “This commitment not only enhances our brand but also propels us to strive for significant milestones in sustainability, motivating us to work even harder towards achieving our ambitious goals.”
Decarbonisation – a major challenge for maritime transport.
Under the Fit for 55 legislative initiatives, the European Union has committed to a goal of decreasing its CO2 emissions by 55% between 1990 and 2030. The EU is striving for carbon neutrality within the maritime sector by the year 2050. Starting in 2025, additional taxes will be imposed on fossil marine fuels and as of 2024, maritime transport will be integrated into the European emissions trading system, involving CO2 quotas.
The entire industry and its stakeholders are now mobilising for more responsible tourism.
