The European Commission adopted the Ocean Pact on 5 June 2025, ahead of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice (France). Described by the Commission as the EU’s first comprehensive ocean governance framework, the pact includes six priorities: restoring ocean health, boosting blue economy competitiveness, supporting coastal & island communities’ resilience, advancing marine research and innovation, enhancing maritime security, and strengthening international ocean diplomacy and governance While it does not create a common European “blue fund,” the pact nevertheless paves the way for an “Ocean Act” by 2027, with even more ambitious legal and financial leverage. In the meantime, the Ocean Pact guides future EU funding orientations amidst negotiations for the future European multiannual financial framework, with EMFAF focusing more on restoration, Horizon program successor boosting marine research and cohesion funds supporting coastal resilience.

As part of its sustainable development approach, the Port of Québec (Canada) is announcing the implementation of its greening plan. This approach is an integral part of its overall strategic vision for 2035, with which the port aims to be a leader in greening Quebec City. Nature is at the heart of the project, with a commitment to achieve 30% canopy cover on its non-industrial territory. The port is committed to concrete, sustainable actions, with around thirty projects, including twenty projects to beautify the port area and ten demineralization initiatives. These include tree planting, landscaping, greening of fences, and the development of a green network. The stated aim of combating climate change involves improving the quality of the air and urban life, as well as projects to ensure harmonious cohabitation with the local population.

In Valparaiso (Chile), the process for the strategic plan for coastal zones is entering its final phase. The initiative, led by Empresa Portuaria Valparaiso (EPV), is a continuation of the Valparaiso agreement and aims to implement the commitments made. Supported by the regional government and the City of Valparaiso, the initiative has achieved consensus and is fostering dialogue through a process of citizen participation, encouraging multi-sectoral and collaborative work among public and private stakeholders. This strategic plan is an opportunity to move from ideas to design thanks to the four guidelines identified following the territorial diagnosis. The idea is to restore access to the sea while upgrading production and port infrastructures as well as public spaces. This sustainable strategic vision echoes another initiative in Valparaiso, where the Terminal Pacifico Sur (TPS) is launching two environmental certifications: “HuellaChile” and “Actua Verde”.

One year after the conference on the Decade of the Ocean organized by UNESCO in the city of Barcelona (Spain), the city has been selected to host one of the “Ocean Decade Collaborative Centers.” This will be a space focused on the blue economy, promoting public-private exchanges at the international level. It will serve as a repository of actions and best practices that can be replicated. The municipality, the port, the autonomous community, and other research organizations are involved in this project. This global initiative will be supported by a very dynamic local ecosystem and will be complemented by a working group on the protection of Barcelona’s coastline.

During Indonesia Maritime Week 2025, the Ministry of Transportation of Indonesia highlighted its role in decarbonization, digitalization, and maritime training. They are committed to achieving zero carbon emissions in the maritime sector by 2060 through ship modernization, alternative fuels, and OPS in ports. The B35 biodiesel program, increased renewable energy, and participation in IMO GreenVoyage2050 reinforce this step. Another country taking similar action is Mexico, which recently launched its National Action Plan for maritime decarbonization with support from IMO’s GreenVoyage2050. A stakeholder workshop in Mexico City brought together government, industry, and civil society to explore cleaner fuels, port upgrades, and regulatory alignment. The initiative begins with a baseline assessment of maritime emissions, aiming to align national efforts with broader climate goals.

The port of Nantes Saint-Nazaire (France) will participate in the 4th edition of the nautical and cultural event “Débord de Loire”, which will take place from June 12 to 18, 2025. As a partner of the event alongside Nantes Métropole, the port will organize indoor activities for the general public over three days. Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in an escape game to explore the port of the future, fly over port sites using virtual reality, and visit the Cheviré logistics and port area. An interactive terminal and information points will also be available to the public. The program will be rounded out by conferences, dance workshops, and exhibitions. The event will be an opportunity for anyone interested in the nautical world and the port industry to meet today’s professionals.