As world leaders gathered in Nice for the 3rd UN Ocean Conference, Rogers proudly stood among them. The Group reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a sustainable future for the ocean and the communities that depend on it.
A shared vision for a living Ocean
From 2 to 13 June 2025, the city of Nice, France, hosted the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3). This event brought together 175 countries, dozens of heads of state, ministers, scientists, academics, private sector and civil society leaders. More than 12,000 delegates participated in what became a defining moment for global ocean governance.
Rogers was represented at UNOC3 by Mickaël Apaya, Head of Climate Resilience and Regeneration at Rogers, Flavio Joseph, Sustainable Development Executive at Heritage Resorts and Pourani Chinapian, Marine Research and Outreach Coordinator at the Heritage Marine Education Centre. Together, they brought the voice of the Indian Ocean region to this historic global gathering and reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to ocean resilience.
From high-level declarations to real-world impact
UNOC3 resulted in several landmark decisions and initiatives:
• The upcoming ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty to protect biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions
• Commitments to end illegal fishing, reduce plastic pollution, and protect fragile marine ecosystems
• Over €8.7 billion in new investments to build a sustainable and inclusive ocean economy
• A pathway for the full decarbonisation of maritime transport by 2050
The conference placed particular emphasis on the role of island states and coastal communities. These are realities that Rogers understands well. From logistics to hospitality, the Group works every day in close connection with the ocean.
Rogers' thematic priorities and participation
Throughout the event, the Rogers delegation engaged in a series of strategic workshops, reflecting the Group’s commitment to addressing complex ocean and climate challenges through multi-sector collaboration and science-driven action. The delegation focused on key thematic areas, including:
• One Ocean Science Congress
• Forum Mondial des Îles
• Blue Finance and Carbon Markets
• Deep Sea Exploration
• Climate Justice with Big Ocean States Initiatives
• The Plastic Odyssey and UNESCO Partnership
These sessions aligned closely with Rogers’ broader vision for environmental stewardship: one rooted in knowledge, responsibility, and partnerships.
Reflecting on his participation, Mickaël Apaya quoted a statement from one of the scientists, which resonated strongly with him:
“When science provides clarity, bold leadership is our responsibility. When uncertainty persists, we act with humility and accountability. Above all, we recognise that true stewardship begins with knowledge.”
Taking action for our coastlines
The journey does not end in Nice. It is here that Rogers’ commitment to continuous learning takes shape, with a mindset grounded in both courage and humility. While the world has made its share of mistakes, what matters now is how we choose to move forward with responsibility and purpose.
One example of this commitment in action is the Jacotet Bay river regeneration project in Bel Ombre. Guided by science and focused on long-term impact, the initiative follows a ridge-to-reef approach. Rogers is carrying out a detailed diagnostic phase before implementing any intervention. This includes the use of drone-based aerial mapping, GIS technology, detailed imagery, and environmental DNA (e-DNA) sampling. These tools ensure that restoration efforts are guided by data, adapted to local ecosystems and designed for long-term impact.
Continuing the journey, together for the Ocean
The Group remains firmly committed to purposeful action, guided by its core values, informed by science, and inspired by a global community of changemakers. The future of our ocean is a collective responsibility, and Rogers will continue to play an active role in driving solutions.
