CMA CGM to Partner with United Nations Ocean Conference 2025 in Support of Marine Preservation

The CMA CGM Group, a major player in global shipping, logistics, and media, has announced its role as an official global partner of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3), set to take place in Nice, France, from June 9–13, 2025. Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, the summit is expected to serve as a key moment in driving international cooperation on ocean conservation and sustainable maritime practices.

A Global Platform for Ocean Advocacy

Following previous editions in New York (2017) and Lisbon (2022), UNOC-3 will bring together a wide coalition of stakeholders—from governments and businesses to NGOs, scientists, and community leaders—to address critical challenges facing the world’s oceans. Priorities for this edition include the ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) treaty, combating overfishing, protecting 30% of ocean areas by 2030, and accelerating the decarbonization of maritime transport.

The CMA CGM Group’s participation aligns with its long-standing environmental commitments, particularly its goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

CMA CGM’s Environmental Commitment

Over the years, CMA CGM has taken proactive steps to reduce its environmental footprint. In 2017, the company began investing in a fleet powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), compatible with emerging low-carbon fuels. By 2029, the Group aims to operate 153 low-carbon vessels. It also made headlines in 2019 when it declined to use the Northern Sea Route, choosing instead to protect fragile Arctic ecosystems.

As part of its decarbonization strategy, CMA CGM is investing in digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, to optimize vessel performance and operations. The Group is also supporting the development of low-carbon marine fuels and contributing to the conservation of marine ecosystems through on-the-ground initiatives.

Active Participation at UNOC-3

During the summit, CMA CGM will participate in multiple panels and events focused on scientific research, blue economy development, and sustainable maritime logistics. The Group will also contribute to the “maritime decarbonization” pavilion, located in La Baleine, a 200 m² space showcasing innovations and projects aimed at reducing emissions and preserving biodiversity.

CMA CGM will highlight its approach to citizen science and data-sharing for ocean research, emphasizing collaborative environmental stewardship.

Local and Global Action for Biodiversity

In the Mediterranean, CMA CGM supports the deployment of Biohuts—artificial habitats to encourage marine biodiversity—in ports such as Marseille and Khalifa (UAE), in partnership with Ecocean. The company is also involved in the rehabilitation of the Callelongue semaphore within the Calanques National Park and organizes beach clean-ups with employee volunteers.

The CMA CGM Foundation runs environmental education programs for young people in Marseille, overseas territories, and Africa, while also supporting coastal reforestation and turtle protection projects.

Decarbonization Through Innovation

To meet its 2050 climate goals, CMA CGM is retrofitting approximately 100 vessels and expanding its fleet with ships powered by LNG and methanol. Onshore, the Group backs sustainable energy solutions such as the Thassalia marine geothermal project in Marseille, which provides low-carbon energy to its Jacques Saadé Tower.

AI-powered platforms like SmartShip and CMA CGM’s Fleet Center are being used to enhance fuel efficiency and operational performance. The company is also promoting low-carbon inland shipping, including the operation of electric barges in Vietnam.

Startups supported through the CMA CGM Startup Awards, including Aerleum and ZERO44, play a key role in driving forward CMA CGM’s energy transition agenda.