Industries often face criticism when it comes to environmental issues due to their significant contributions to climate change. The responsibility they bear is vast and complex, reflecting the scale of their impact on our planet. However, these industries are always striving to reduce the climate impact, particularly through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. And here’s where the journey begins.
CMA-CGM, the world’s leading shipping company based in France, is deeply committed to sustainability—striving to balance economic growth with environmental preservation. One of its key initiatives is The CMA-CGM Foundation, established in 2005 and chaired by Tanya Saadé Zeenny. The foundation addresses pressing social needs with a focus on solidarity, responsibility, and entrepreneurship, mirroring the values of the CMA-CGM Group.
In line with these values, the foundation harnesses its expertise in transport and logistics to deliver essential humanitarian supplies and support access to quality education. Its areas of focus include professional training, social innovation, and educational initiatives. To date, the foundation has transported 43,000 tons of humanitarian aid to 88 countries and supported over 550 education projects in France, Lebanon, and globally.
In Indonesia, CMA-CGM has operated for over 25 years, with six branch offices across the country, including one in Surabaya. Reflecting its mission to enhance education worldwide, the foundation has committed to renovating two schools in Surabaya. This year, SMP Tri Guna Bhakti has been selected as a beneficiary of this transformative project. The foundation’s efforts have not only improved school facilities through renovations but also supported environmental conservation by utilizing eco-brick construction. This initiative has recycled 1.7 tons of plastic waste and reduced 3.9 tons of carbon emissions, creating a tangible and lasting impact.
The vast impact of this transformative project is mesmerizing, from this initiative, there are 780 students and more than 3500 community members impacted. Not only renovating the school, this initiative has a sustainable impact – contributing to the enhancement of teaching and learning quality, and even to school financial management, ensuring the school will operate sustainably and effectively for years to come. These efforts not only support day-to-day operations, but are a long-term investment.
Uniquely, the CMA-CGM Foundation also provides a container library, which represents the mother company business and fostering collaboration in enhancing reading interest for SMP Tri Guna Bhakti students. It’s also equipped with hundreds of books, ranging from fiction and non-fiction books to enable their minds to expand and explore new ideas. These books serve as windows to the world, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning among the students.
By addressing these key areas, improving quality education is at ease. A holistic approach needs to be established – ensuring the benefits of the improvements are not only immediate but also enduring, creating a lasting positive impact for the community around. Let’s join together in this transformational movement – changing thousand lives through our hand is a reality now!
