• Funding Boost: BNP Paribas Foundation commits €7 million to support 7-15 scientific research projects on ocean and coastal ecosystems.
• Global Recognition: The initiative is labeled “Ocean Decade” by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission.
• Call for Applications: Open from January 21 to May 4, 2025, for European scientific teams.

Driving Ocean & Coastal Research

The BNP Paribas Foundation is launching the 6th edition of its Climate & Biodiversity Initiative, focusing on ocean and coastal ecosystems. With ocean acidification, coastal erosion, and overfishing threatening marine environments, the Foundation aims to advance scientific research addressing these critical challenges.

“In response to the ongoing environmental issues, we are convinced that philanthropy is a key lever for change. By supporting the work of scientists, this call for projects is an opportunity for us to act in favor of ocean and coastal areas preservation.” — Isabelle Giordano, Head of Group Philanthropy, BNP Paribas Foundation.

Funding & Selection Process

• Total Budget: €7 million allocated for selected projects over three years.
• Eligibility: Open to European scientific teams conducting basic or applied research on climate and biodiversity in ocean and coastal ecosystems.
• Selection: A Scientific Committee will review applications after submissions close on May 4, 2025.

Related Article: BNP Paribas Launches €750M Low Carbon Infrastructure Equity Fund

UNESCO-Recognized Initiative

This initiative has been awarded the “Ocean Decade” label by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), aligning with the United Nations’ 2021-2030 Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

“We welcome this joint call for projects with the BNP Paribas Foundation, which perfectly illustrates the importance of multistakeholder collaboration for global ocean action.“ — Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of UNESCO-IOC.

A Legacy of Environmental Philanthropy

By 2025, BNP Paribas Foundation will have supported over 35 scientific research teams worldwide, investing a total of €24 million in environmental research—solidifying its status as France’s largest environmental philanthropy program.

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