Contributing to ocean preservation
As the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) takes place this week in Nice, Societe Generale reaffirms its commitment to protecting marine ecosystems. Through responsible financing, rigorous sectoral policies, innovative partnerships, and growing engagement, the Group actively contributes to the transition towards a more sustainable maritime economy.
Oceans: A global issue with many dimensions
Oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, store 97% of its water, and play a vital role in climate regulation. They are also a source of life, food, and income for over three billion people around the world. Yet they face increasing pressures: climate disruption, plastic pollution, acidification, overfishing, and destruction of marine habitats.
In response to these threats, the international community has set a clear goal: to conserve and sustainably use marine resources (Sustainable Development Goal 14). In 2025, designated as the Year of the Ocean, initiatives are multiplying to accelerate action. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC), co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, represents a key milestone in this dynamic.
The key role of the financial sector
Financial institutions have a significant lever to support the transition of the blue economy. By directing capital towards sustainable projects, factoring environmental risks into decision-making, and supporting innovation, they contribute to the restoration and protection of marine ecosystem.
Societe Generale is fully committed to this momentum, with a structured approach built around four main pillars.
Financing the transition of maritime transport
A critical sector for global trade, maritime transport is also responsible for around 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Societe Generale plays an active role in the sector’s decarbonisation by:
- Financing low-emission vessels and alternative energy solutions (such as LNG, hydrogen, or wind propulsion)
- Supporting the adaptation of port infrastructure to enable "green corridors"
- Assisting in the modernisation of existing fleets to reduce their environmental footprint
As a co-founder of the Poseidon Principles, the Group is committed to aligning its shipping portfolio with the emission reduction targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), aiming for a 40% cut in carbon intensity by 2030.
Societe Generale also supports the development of innovative financing solutions to help shipowners reconcile their financial and operational goals with a reduced environmental impact. The Group is acting as exclusive advisor to Eurazeo for the “Maritime Upgrade” fund, a debt fund targeting both new vessels with alternative propulsion systems and the upgrade of existing fleets. This initiative aims to meet two objectives: extend the lifespan of existing assets while ensuring compliance with new climate and environmental standards.
Framing sensitive sectors with robust environmental policies
Societe Generale has implemented sectoral policies in areas such as fisheries, aquaculture, and maritime transport. These policies set clear criteria to limit overfishing, protect marine biodiversity, and prevent pollution risks.
For example, the policy on fisheries and aquaculture seeks to avoid destructive practices, while the one on maritime transport regulates ballast water management, requires respect for protected areas, and includes measures against oil spills.
The Group also excludes financing for vessels that do not comply with IACS safety standards, single-hull tankers, or projects located in ecologically sensitive areas, such as UNESCO-listed sites. These commitments are embedded in analysis and decision-making processes to encourage more responsible practices.
Supporting Conservation Initiatives
Beyond traditional financing, Societe Generale partners with innovative players in ocean protection. The Group supports The Ocean Cleanup, a non-profit organisation developing technologies to remove plastic from oceans and rivers.
This commitment combines financial backing, banking expertise, and network-building, reflecting an impact-driven partnership approach that goes beyond philanthropy.
Mobilising stakeholders around ocean issues
Employee engagement is essential to embed ocean-related issues into the Group’s culture. In 2025, several internal initiatives will support this momentum, including awareness campaigns, expert-led discussions, and strengthened solidarity efforts.
The Group also contributes to collective publications alongside other financial institutions, companies, and academic partners:
- A contribution to a publication coordinated by the Institute for Sustainable Finance, bringing together commitments and solutions from eleven financial sector players
- A brochure co-published with EpE (Entreprises pour l’Environnement) network, highlighting practical levers businesses can use to protect marine environments
A long-term commitment
Convinced that the transition to a sustainable ocean economy requires cooperation, innovation, and collective engagement, Societe Generale will continue to step up its efforts in the coming years. The ambition: to contribute to a regenerative blue economy that respects planetary boundaries and creates opportunities for communities, businesses, and future generations.
Learn more:
- Listen to or replay the 2050 Investors podcast: "The Nautilus Chronicles – Exploring the Future of the Oceans" (featuring Nisha Bakker, Director of Partnerships at The Ocean Cleanup)
- Reviving Water: Sustainable Solutions for a Scarcity-Stricken Future