CSRD: what is double materiality?

Double materiality is a concept introduced in the CSRD that requires companies to consider and report on both financial and environmental/social impacts.

Traditionally, materiality in financial reporting focuses solely on information that could influence investors’ decisions.

Double materiality broadens this perspective by adding a second dimension: the impact of the company’s activities on society and the environment.

Financial Materiality

Financial materiality remains a critical component, requiring companies to disclose information that affects their financial performance and position. This includes risks and opportunities related to sustainability that could impact the company’s value, such as regulatory changes, market shifts, and resource availability.

Environmental and Social Materiality

Environmental and social materiality, the other dimension of double materiality, compels companies to disclose how their operations impact the environment and society. This encompasses a wide range of factors, such as greenhouse gas emissions, resource usage, labor practices, and community relations. Companies must report on their contributions to climate change, biodiversity loss, human rights issues, and other societal impacts.

The introduction of double materiality is a game-changer for corporate sustainability reporting. Here are some key reasons why it is important:

Holistic Reporting

Double materiality promotes a more comprehensive view of a company’s impact, encouraging transparency about both financial and non-financial factors. This holistic approach ensures that stakeholders, including investors, customers, employees, and communities, receive a fuller picture of a company’s performance and impact.

Enhanced Risk Management

By considering environmental and social impacts, companies can better identify and mitigate risks. For instance, a company heavily reliant on water resources might identify risks related to water scarcity and take steps to manage them, thereby safeguarding both its operations and the surrounding communities.

Improved Accountability

Double materiality holds companies accountable for their environmental and social impacts. This accountability drives companies to adopt more sustainable practices, leading to positive changes in their operations and contributions to global sustainability goals.

Informed Decision-Making

Investors and other stakeholders can make more informed decisions based on comprehensive data. Understanding both the financial and non-financial impacts of a company’s activities enables better assessment of long-term viability and ethical considerations.

While the benefits of double materiality are clear, its implementation poses several challenges:

Data collection and reporting

Collecting accurate data on environmental and social impacts can be complex and resource-intensive. Companies need robust systems and processes to gather, analyze, and report this information.

Standardization

Standardizing the metrics and methodologies for reporting on double materiality is crucial. Consistent and comparable data ensures that stakeholders can accurately assess and compare companies’ sustainability performance.

Regulatory compliance

Adapting to new regulatory requirements under the CSRD requires significant effort. Companies must stay informed about evolving regulations and ensure their reporting practices comply with the latest standards.

The concept of double materiality under the CSRD represents a significant shift in corporate sustainability reporting. By requiring companies to consider both financial and environmental/social impacts, it promotes a more comprehensive and transparent approach to reporting. While the implementation of double materiality comes with challenges, its benefits in terms of holistic reporting, risk management, accountability, and informed decision-making make it a crucial element of modern corporate governance.

As companies adapt to these new requirements, they not only enhance their sustainability practices but also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world. The concept of double materiality is here to stay, driving the future of corporate reporting and sustainability.

2024-06-03

Environment & climate change French laws

French Legislation on Sustainable Development, Ecology, and Corporate Social Responsibility

France has been at the forefront of environmental and social governance, consistently implementing progressive legislation to address sustainable development, ecological conservation, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). This blog post provides an overview of significant French laws in these areas, highlighting their main points and historical context.

Early 20th Century Foundations

1. Early Environmental Efforts (1900-1950)

In the first half of the 20th century, France’s focus on environmental protection was limited, mainly due to the two World Wars and the subsequent need for economic recovery. However, some basic regulations began to emerge, addressing public health and industrial pollution.

The Environmental Movement Gains Momentum

2. Loi relative à la protection de la nature (1976)

This landmark law was one of the first comprehensive pieces of environmental legislation in France. It aimed to protect natural spaces and wildlife. Key aspects included:

Creating protected natural areas
Regulating activities that impact biodiversity
Promoting environmental education

3. Loi sur l’air et l’utilisation rationnelle de l’énergie (1996)

The Air and Rational Energy Use Act focused on reducing air pollution and promoting energy efficiency. Key provisions included:

Establishing air quality standards
Encouraging the use of cleaner energy sources
Implementing local air quality plans

Entering the 21st Century: A Focus on Sustainability

4. Loi relative à la solidarité et au renouvellement urbains (2000)

Known as the SRU Law, this legislation aimed to promote sustainable urban development and social inclusion. Highlights included:

Mandating a minimum percentage of social housing in urban areas
Promoting public transportation and reducing urban sprawl
Integrating environmental considerations into urban planning

5. Loi sur les nouvelles régulations économiques (2001)

This law introduced the concept of CSR into French legislation, requiring companies to include social and environmental information in their annual reports. Key points were:

Enhancing transparency in corporate reporting
Encouraging companies to adopt sustainable practices
Promoting responsible business conduct

6. Loi Grenelle I (2009) and Loi Grenelle II (2010)

These two laws, known collectively as the Grenelle Laws, marked a significant step in France’s commitment to sustainable development. They resulted from extensive stakeholder consultation and focused on:

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
Improving energy efficiency in buildings
Promoting renewable energy
Enhancing biodiversity protection

Recent Advances in Environmental and CSR Legislation

7. Energy Transition for Green Growth Act (2015)

This ambitious law aimed to transform France’s energy system, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote renewable energy. Key provisions included:

Reducing nuclear energy’s share in electricity production to 50% by 2025
Increasing the share of renewable energy to 32% by 2030
Cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030

8. Corporate Duty of Vigilance Law (2017)

This law introduced mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence for large French companies. Highlights included:

Requiring companies to identify and prevent human rights abuses and environmental harm in their supply chains
Holding companies accountable for violations
Promoting greater corporate transparency

9. Climate and Resilience Law (2021)

The Climate and Resilience Law is one of the most comprehensive pieces of environmental legislation in recent years. It aims to align French law with the objectives of the Paris Agreement. Key elements include:

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in various sectors, including transport, housing, and agriculture
Strengthening biodiversity protection
Implementing stricter regulations on waste management and plastic use

Conclusion

From the early steps in the 1970s to the ambitious goals of recent laws, French legislation on sustainable development, ecology, and CSR has evolved significantly. These laws not only aim to protect the environment and promote sustainability but also enhance corporate accountability and social responsibility. As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, France’s legislative framework serves as a model for other countries striving to achieve sustainable development and ecological balance.

2024-04-292024-05-21

The 9 planetary boundaries

What are the 9 planetary boundaries?

In the grand tapestry of Earth’s existence, there are certain boundaries that define the safe operating space for humanity.

These boundaries, known as planetary boundaries, encompass critical environmental thresholds that, if crossed, could lead to irreversible changes in our planet’s systems.

In this article, you’ll delve into these 9 limits, exploring their definitions, major challenges, and real-world examples that highlight the urgency of respecting them.

And you know what? Only 3 planetary boundaries are not already passed, let’s find them out:

We have passed the safety threshold for all of the planetary boundaries apart from ocean acidification, stratospheric ozone depletion, and air pollution (atmospheric aerosol loading, not yet quantified in 2024).

Focus in French about the current status of the nine planetary boundaries

The concept of the nine planetary boundaries was introduced to provide a scientific framework aimed at identifying the environmental limits beyond which humanity cannot safely operate. This framework was proposed in 2009 by a group of 28 scientists led by Johan Rockström from the Stockholm Resilience Centre and Will Steffen from the Australian National University. The primary goal was to define critical thresholds for key processes that regulate the stability and resilience of the Earth’s system.

1 – Climate change

Climate change is perhaps the most widely recognized planetary boundary.

What is climate change, an expression that is repeated everyday?

Climate change refers to the long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place.

The primary challenge lies in the increase of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide. These gas emissions result from human activities such as burning fossil fuels (oil, gas, and coal) and deforestation. Real-world examples include the melting of polar ice caps, extreme weather events like hurricanes and droughts, and shifts in agricultural patterns affecting food security.

2 – Biodiversity loss

Biodiversity loss encompasses the decline in the variety and abundance of species within a particular ecosystem. There is not one biodiversity but there are biodiversities.

Human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, overexploitation, and introduction of invasive species contribute to this phenomenon.

Major challenges include the extinction of species, disruption of ecosystem services like pollination and water purification, and loss of genetic diversity essential for resilience.

Examples include the dwindling populations of iconic species like elephants and tigers, and the collapse of coral reefs due to ocean acidification.

3 – Nitrogen and phosphorus cycle

Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus inputs into ecosystems disrupt natural nutrient cycles, leading to pollution and ecosystem degradation.

Agricultural runoff, industrial processes, and sewage discharge are primary sources of these pollutants. Challenges include eutrophication of water bodies, harmful algal blooms, and the creation of oxygen-depleted dead zones.

Real-world examples include the Gulf of Mexico’s “Dead Zone” caused by fertilizer runoff from the Mississippi River and the decline of fish populations due to oxygen depletion.

4 – Land system change

Land system change involves alterations in land use, such as deforestation, urbanization, and conversion of natural habitats for agriculture or infrastructure development. If you want to read further, have a look at our soil erosion article.

The major challenge is the loss of biodiversity-rich ecosystems and their services, along with the release of stored carbon into the atmosphere.

Examples include the Amazon rainforest’s rapid deforestation for cattle ranching and soy cultivation, leading to habitat loss for countless species and contributing to climate change.

5 – Freshwater use

Freshwater use refers to the extraction and consumption of freshwater resources for various human activities, including agriculture, industry, and of course domestic use.

The challenge lies in unsustainable water extraction rates, leading to water scarcity, depletion of aquifers, and deterioration of freshwater ecosystems.

Real-world examples include the depletion of the Ogallala Aquifer in the United States due to intensive agricultural irrigation and the drying of rivers and lakes worldwide due to over-extraction.

6 – Ocean acidification

This is for me the scariest planetary boundary noun, not because all the others are less important but rather that it could be the title of a scary movie or serie. Authors, directors and producers, be ready to go on this passionate matter, please, sensibilise the whole world!

I am very impacted by ocean acidification given that I eventually discovered the immensity of salty water and its role in the balance of Planet Earth, regarding CO2 absorption, biodiversities, mix of green and blue waters, and the ratio land Vs. salty water.

Ocean acidification is the decrease in pH levels of the Earth’s oceans, primarily caused by the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

This phenomenon poses a significant challenge to marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as corals and shellfish.

Examples include the bleaching of coral reefs due to increased acidity and the disruption of marine food webs as key species struggle to adapt.

7 – Stratospheric ozone depletion

Stratospheric ozone depletion refers to the reduction of the ozone layer in the Earth’s stratosphere, primarily due to the release of ozone-depleting substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons.

The major challenge is the increased exposure of living organisms to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, leading to skin cancer, cataracts, and damage to ecosystems.

Real-world examples include the Antarctic ozone hole and the recovery efforts following the implementation of the Montreal Protocol.

8 – Atmospheric aerosol loading

Atmospheric aerosol loading involves the release of fine particles and droplets into the atmosphere. Primarily they come from human activities such as industrial processes, transportation, and biomass burning.

The challenge lies in the impact of aerosols on human health, air quality, and climate change.

Examples include smog in urban areas, which contributes to respiratory illnesses, and the formation of haze from forest fires, affecting visibility and regional climate patterns.

9 – Chemical pollution

Chemical pollution refers to the release of harmful synthetic chemicals into the environment, including pesticides, industrial pollutants, and household chemicals.

The major challenge is the widespread contamination of air, water, soil, and food, posing risks to human health and ecosystems.

Real-world examples include the contamination of water bodies with mercury from industrial processes, leading to bioaccumulation in fish and potential health risks for consumers.

Conclusion

The planetary boundaries framework provides a holistic perspective on the complex interactions between human activities and the Earth’s systems.

Respecting these 9 planetary boundaries is crucial for safeguarding the stability and resilience of planet Earth and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

By understanding the definitions, challenges, and real-world examples of each limit, we can collectively strive towards more responsible stewardship of our shared planet Earth home.

Spread relentlessly the message worldwide, and take the time to explain to your friends and family what the 9 planetary boundaries are made of.

Here are the reasons why these planetary boundaries were established:

Prevent Irreversible Environmental Changes: By defining boundaries, scientists aim to prevent environmental disturbances that could cause irreversible changes to the Earth’s ecosystems.
Ensure a Safe Operating Space for Humanity: The boundaries are designed to delineate a “safe” zone where human activities can occur without compromising the natural systems that support life.
Promote Global Environmental Governance: The concept of planetary boundaries provides a scientific basis for guiding international policies and fostering global cooperation in environmental management.
Raise Awareness and Educate: Clearly identifying critical thresholds helps to raise awareness among policymakers, businesses, and the public about environmental risks and the importance of sustainability.
Address the Challenges of the Anthropocene: We are in a geological epoch where human activity has become the dominant force of change in the Earth’s environment. The planetary boundaries help to measure and manage this influence.

The nine identified planetary boundaries are as follows:

Climate Change: Concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Biodiversity Loss: Rates of species extinction and decline in populations.
Biogeochemical Flows: Disruptions in the nitrogen and phosphorus cycles.
Land-System Change: Deforestation and conversion of natural lands.
Freshwater Use: Global consumption of freshwater resources.
Ocean Acidification: Changes in the pH levels of the oceans.
Stratospheric Ozone Depletion: Concentrations of ozone in the stratosphere.
Atmospheric Aerosol Loading: Concentration of particulate matter in the atmosphere.
Introduction of Novel Entities: Release of new chemicals and materials into the environment.

2024-04-212024-05-21

Soil erosion issues

What is Soil Erosion?

Soil erosion is the process by which the top layer of soil is removed by natural forces such as wind, water, and human activity. This topsoil is rich in nutrients and organic matter, making it essential for plant growth and agricultural productivity. Unfortunately, soil erosion poses a significant threat to the environment, agriculture, and food security worldwide.

The Main Issues of Soil Erosion

Loss of Arable Land: One of the most immediate impacts of soil erosion is the reduction in the quality and quantity of arable land. As the nutrient-rich topsoil is stripped away, the remaining soil becomes less fertile, leading to lower crop yields and decreased agricultural productivity.
Water Pollution: Eroded soil often finds its way into rivers, lakes, and streams, carrying with it pesticides, fertilizers, and other pollutants. This can lead to the contamination of water bodies, affecting aquatic life and human health.
Sedimentation: Soil erosion leads to the accumulation of sediment in waterways, which can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, reduce water quality, and increase the risk of flooding. Sedimentation can also clog irrigation systems and reservoirs, reducing their efficiency and lifespan.
Loss of Soil Organic Matter: The topsoil contains organic matter that is crucial for maintaining soil structure, fertility, and water retention. When this layer is eroded, the soil becomes less capable of supporting plant life, leading to further degradation and desertification in extreme cases.

Facts About Soil Erosion

Global Impact: According to the United Nations, soil erosion affects an estimated 33% of the world’s land surface. This has significant implications for food security and environmental sustainability.
Economic Cost: The economic impact of soil erosion is substantial. It is estimated that soil degradation costs the global economy up to $400 billion per year in lost agricultural production and other damages.
Human Activity: While natural processes contribute to soil erosion, human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, and poor land management practices accelerate the rate of erosion. Agriculture, in particular, is a major driver due to the clearing of vegetation and the disturbance of soil through plowing.

Solutions to Combat Soil Erosion

Conservation Tillage: This practice involves reducing the amount of tilling, which helps maintain soil structure and organic matter. Techniques such as no-till farming leave the soil intact and protect it from erosion.
Cover Crops: Planting cover crops, such as clover or rye, during off-season periods helps protect the soil from erosion. These plants provide ground cover, reduce water runoff, and improve soil health.
Terracing: On sloped land, terracing can reduce soil erosion by creating level steps that slow down water runoff and allow it to infiltrate the soil. This method is particularly effective in hilly and mountainous regions.
Contour Farming: Planting crops in rows that follow the natural contours of the land can help reduce water runoff and soil erosion. This technique encourages water to infiltrate the soil rather than wash it away.
Windbreaks: Planting trees and shrubs around fields acts as a barrier to wind, reducing wind speed and the potential for wind erosion. Windbreaks also provide additional benefits, such as habitat for wildlife and improved biodiversity.
Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees on degraded land can help stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, and restore the ecosystem. Trees and their root systems play a crucial role in holding the soil together and preventing erosion.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Soil erosion is a pressing environmental issue that requires immediate attention and action. By understanding the causes and consequences of soil erosion, we can implement effective solutions to protect our valuable soil resources. Conservation practices such as conservation tillage, cover cropping, and terracing, along with reforestation efforts, can significantly reduce soil erosion and promote sustainable land management. It is crucial for governments, communities, and individuals to work together to combat soil erosion and ensure a healthy and productive environment for future generations.

By addressing soil erosion, we not only protect our agricultural productivity and food security but also safeguard the health of our ecosystems and the quality of our water resources. Let us take the necessary steps today to preserve our soil and secure a sustainable future. Eventually, soil erosion is part of the nine planetary bounderies.

2024-04-162024-05-17

FISE World Montpellier First Edition 1997

2024-03-212024-05-21

How do we eat, drink and breathe microplastics?

Let’s start with a quick reminder in numbers:

Worldwide plastic trade generates $1 trillion (about 1 000 000 000 000€) per year, which accounts for 5% of the global merchandise trade (UNCTAD).

Plastic trade represents 460 million tons per year. Annual production has more than doubled in 20 years to reach 460 million tons, according to a report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in February 2022. It could triple by 2060 if nothing is done.

Globally, only 9% of plastic waste is currently recycled, which means that 91% of plastic waste is potentially thrown away in the environment, burnt or hidden in soils.

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters (0,19685 inch) in size that come from a variety of sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic items and the shedding of synthetic fibers.

These minuscule fragments pose a significant environmental threat due to their pervasiveness in the environment, where they can be ingested by marine life and enter the food chain, ultimately impacting human health.

Understanding the origins and implications of microplastics is crucial for implementing effective mitigation strategies to combat their widespread presence in ecosystems.

Sources of Microplastics

Cosmetic and Personal Care Products
- Many personal care products contain microbeads, which are washed down the drain and enter water systems. Despite bans in some regions, they remain a significant source in areas without regulations.
Synthetic Clothing
- Washing synthetic textiles releases microfibers into wastewater, which are not fully captured by wastewater treatment plants and end up in water bodies.
Plastic Waste
- Mismanaged plastic waste, such as littering and inadequate disposal, breaks down over time into microplastics through physical, chemical, and biological processes.
Industrial Processes
- Industrial abrasives, such as plastic pellets used for sandblasting, contribute to microplastic pollution when improperly managed.
Packaging and Single-use Plastics
- Items like plastic bottles, bags, and wrappers degrade into microplastics when exposed to environmental conditions.
Agricultural and Aquaculture Activities
- Use of plastic films for mulching, plastic piping, and equipment in aquaculture can degrade into microplastics.

Sources of Microplastics

Cosmetic and Personal Care Products
- Many personal care products contain microbeads, which are washed down the drain and enter water systems. Despite bans in some regions, they remain a significant source in areas without regulations.
Synthetic Clothing
- Washing synthetic textiles releases microfibers into wastewater, which are not fully captured by wastewater treatment plants and end up in water bodies.
Plastic Waste
- Mismanaged plastic waste, such as littering and inadequate disposal, breaks down over time into microplastics through physical, chemical, and biological processes.
Industrial Processes
- Industrial abrasives, such as plastic pellets used for sandblasting, contribute to microplastic pollution when improperly managed.
Packaging and Single-use Plastics
- Items like plastic bottles, bags, and wrappers degrade into microplastics when exposed to environmental conditions.
Agricultural and Aquaculture Activities
- Use of plastic films for mulching, plastic piping, and equipment in aquaculture can degrade into microplastics.

May be the issue would rather be microplastics: Vs. biodiversities?

Why biodiversities? If you want to know ore about biodiversity.

Microplastics in the Environment

Marine Environments
- Microplastics are widely distributed in oceans and seas, affecting marine life. They are ingested by a wide range of organisms, from plankton to whales.
Freshwater Systems
- Rivers and lakes contain microplastics primarily from urban runoff, wastewater effluent, and atmospheric deposition.
Soil and Terrestrial Ecosystems
- Microplastics are found in agricultural soils, often due to the application of sewage sludge and plastic mulch. They can also be transported through wind and water runoff.
Atmosphere
- Microplastics can become airborne and are found in atmospheric dust, leading to deposition in remote areas far from their source.

#ClimateActionNow
Microplastics have become an unseen threat that has permeated our daily lives. We are inadvertently ingesting, inhaling, and consuming these microscopic plastic particles through various means.

These tiny plastic fragments can penetrate biological barriers, including the gut, skin, and placental tissue. Worryingly, microplastics can act as carriers for harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A, phthalates, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which have been linked to various health issues, including hormonal disruptions, reproductive harm, and even cancer.

Furthermore, the presence of microplastics in the lungs and bloodstream raises concerns about their potential to cause respiratory and other systemic health problems. Inhalation of microplastics can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, and potential mitochondrial damage in human respiratory cells.

While the full extent of the health implications is still being studied, experts agree that reducing our exposure to microplastics is a prudent step. Practical measures, such as avoiding heating food in plastic containers, drinking tap water instead of bottled water, and consuming more fresh produce, can help minimize our intake of these ubiquitous particles.

2024-02-212024-05-21

What are CO2 emission scopes?

CO2 emission scopes are categories defined to classify and manage the various sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with an organization’s activities. These scopes are established by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, which provides a standardized framework for measuring and managing GHG emissions.

The three scopes are:

Scope 1: Direct Emissions

Scope 1 emissions are direct GHG emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the organization. These include:

Fuel Combustion: Emissions from burning fossil fuels in company-owned or controlled assets such as boilers, furnaces, vehicles, and machinery.
Process Emissions: Emissions released during industrial processes, such as chemical production, cement manufacturing, and steelmaking.
Fugitive Emissions: Emissions that are not released through a confined air stream, such as leaks from equipment and refrigerants.

Scope 2: Indirect Emissions from Energy

Scope 2 emissions are indirect GHG emissions from the consumption of purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling. Although these emissions occur at the facilities where the energy is generated, they are attributed to the organization that uses the energy.

Purchased Electricity: Emissions from the generation of electricity purchased and consumed by the organization.
Purchased Steam, Heating, and Cooling: Emissions from the generation of steam, heating, or cooling purchased and consumed by the organization.

Scope 3: Other Indirect Emissions

Scope 3 emissions are all other indirect emissions that occur in the value chain of the reporting company, both upstream and downstream. These are not owned or directly controlled by the organization but are a consequence of its activities. Scope 3 emissions are often the largest share of an organization’s total GHG emissions. They include:

Purchased Goods and Services: Emissions from the production of goods and services that the organization purchases.
Capital Goods: Emissions associated with the production of capital assets such as buildings, machinery, and vehicles.
Fuel- and Energy-Related Activities: Emissions related to the production of fuels and energy purchased by the organization that are not included in Scope 1 or Scope 2.
Transportation and Distribution: Emissions from the transportation and distribution of goods, both upstream (supplier to organization) and downstream (organization to customer).
Waste Generated in Operations: Emissions from the disposal and treatment of waste generated by the organization’s operations.
Business Travel: Emissions from employee business travel in vehicles not owned or controlled by the organization.
Employee Commuting: Emissions from employees commuting to and from work.
Leased Assets: Emissions from the operation of assets leased by the organization.
Processing of Sold Products: Emissions from the processing of products sold by the organization.
Use of Sold Products: Emissions from the use of products sold by the organization.
End-of-Life Treatment of Sold Products: Emissions from the disposal and treatment of products sold by the organization.
Franchises: Emissions from the operation of franchises.
Investments: Emissions related to investments made by the organization.

Conclusion

Understanding and managing CO2 emission scopes is crucial for organizations aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and mitigate climate change. By categorizing emissions into Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3, organizations can better identify the sources of their emissions, develop strategies to reduce them, and track their progress over time. This comprehensive approach is essential for achieving sustainability goals and improving environmental performance.

2024-02-032024-06-03

European Union legislation on sustainable development goals

Over the last century, European Union has become a global leader in legislation promoting sustainable development, ecological preservation, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). This blog post highlights key pieces of European legislation in these areas, outlining their main points and historical context.

Early 20th Century Beginnings

1. Early Environmental Awareness (1900-1950)

While formal legislation was sparse in the early 20th century, this period laid the groundwork for future laws. Awareness of industrial pollution’s impact began to grow, particularly after World War II, as Europe rebuilt and industrialized rapidly.

The Environmental Awakening

2. The European Community’s First Environmental Action Programme (1973)

The European Economic Community (EEC), a precursor to the EU, introduced its First Environmental Action Programme. This 1973 initiative marked the first coordinated effort to address environmental issues at a European level. The programme focused on:

Reducing pollution
Improving environmental health standards
Integrating environmental policy with economic policies

3. Birds Directive (1979)

The Birds Directive was one of the first major legislative actions in environmental protection, aimed at the conservation of wild birds across Europe. Key points included:

Protecting all European wild bird species
Designating Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for threatened species

The 1990s: Strengthening Environmental Protections

4. Habitats Directive (1992)

The Habitats Directive aimed to safeguard biodiversity by protecting natural habitats and species. It led to the creation of the Natura 2000 network, a cornerstone of European nature conservation policy. Highlights include:

Preserving over 200 habitat types
Protecting more than 1,000 animal and plant species

5. The Fifth Environmental Action Programme (1993-2000)

This programme built on previous efforts, introducing the concept of sustainable development explicitly into EU policy. Key focus areas were:

Climate change
Acidification and air pollution
Sustainable use of natural resources

21st Century: Integrating Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility

6. The Lisbon Strategy (2000)

Launched in 2000, the Lisbon Strategy aimed to make the EU the most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world, with a focus on sustainable economic growth. It emphasized:

Environmental sustainability
Social inclusion
Economic competitiveness

7. REACH Regulation (2006)

The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation revolutionized chemical management in the EU. It aimed to:

Protect human health and the environment
Ensure the safe use of chemicals
Promote alternative testing methods to reduce animal testing

8. The Climate and Energy Package (2008)

In response to growing climate concerns, the EU introduced the Climate and Energy Package, which set ambitious targets for 2020:

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% from 1990 levels
Increasing the share of renewable energy to 20%
Improving energy efficiency by 20%

9. The European Green Deal (2019)

The European Green Deal is the EU’s flagship strategy to transition to a sustainable economy by 2050. It encompasses a broad range of policies, including:

Achieving climate neutrality by 2050
Decoupling economic growth from resource use
Ensuring no one is left behind in the transition

10. The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) (2022)

Replacing the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), the CSRD requires companies to disclose information on how they operate and manage social and environmental challenges. Key aspects include:

More detailed and standardized sustainability reporting
Extending the scope to include more companies
Ensuring data is comparable and reliable

Conclusion

From its early steps in the 1970s to the ambitious goals of the European Green Deal, European legislation on sustainable development, ecology, and corporate social responsibility has evolved significantly. These laws not only protect the environment and promote sustainability but also enhance the EU’s global leadership in these critical areas. As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, Europe’s legislative framework serves as a model for other regions aiming to achieve sustainable development.

2024-01-182024-05-21

Fertilizers: The basics

Fertilizers are essential inputs in agriculture and gardening, providing the necessary nutrients to promote plant growth and improve crop yields. Understanding the basics of fertilizers, including their purpose, application methods, and the role of biofertilizers, is crucial for effective and sustainable plant cultivation.

Why Use Fertilizers?

Plants require nutrients to grow, develop, and produce food. While some nutrients are available naturally in the soil, they are often insufficient to meet the needs of crops, especially in intensive farming systems. Fertilizers help by supplying these essential nutrients, ensuring that plants receive the optimal amounts for healthy growth.

Nutrient Supply: Fertilizers provide essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), often referred to as NPK, which are critical for various plant functions.
Improved Yield: By enhancing nutrient availability, fertilizers can significantly boost crop yields, ensuring better food production and economic returns for farmers.
Soil Fertility: Regular use of fertilizers can help maintain soil fertility, preventing nutrient depletion that can occur due to continuous cropping.

Where to Use Fertilizers?

Fertilizers are used in various settings, including:

Agriculture: On farms to enhance crop production, especially in nutrient-depleted soils.
Horticulture: In gardens, nurseries, and landscaping to promote healthy growth of flowers, shrubs, and trees.
Forestry: To improve the growth of trees and other plants in managed forests and plantations.
Lawns and Turf: On lawns, golf courses, and sports fields to ensure lush, green, and healthy grass.

How to Use Fertilizers?

The application of fertilizers involves several considerations to ensure effectiveness and prevent environmental damage:

Soil Testing: Before applying fertilizers, it is important to test the soil to determine its nutrient content and pH. This helps in choosing the right type and amount of fertilizer.
Right Time: Fertilizers should be applied at times when plants can absorb the nutrients efficiently, often during the growing season or at specific growth stages.
Right Place: Placement of fertilizers can vary; they can be broadcasted over the soil surface, incorporated into the soil, or applied directly to the plant roots (banding).
Right Amount: Applying the correct amount of fertilizer is crucial to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to nutrient runoff, pollution, and plant damage.
Right Type: Selecting the appropriate type of fertilizer (synthetic or organic) based on the crop needs and environmental considerations.

Biofertilizers: An Eco-friendly Alternative

Biofertilizers are natural fertilizers that contain living microorganisms. These microorganisms enhance the availability of nutrients to plants through natural processes such as nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, and the decomposition of organic matter. Biofertilizers offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilizers and have several benefits:

Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria: Rhizobium, Azotobacter, and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can use.
Phosphate-Solubilizing Microbes: Fungi like mycorrhiza and bacteria such as Pseudomonas increase the availability of phosphorus to plants.
Decomposers: Microorganisms like Trichoderma help decompose organic matter, enriching the soil with nutrients.

Benefits of Biofertilizers

Sustainability: Biofertilizers support sustainable agriculture by reducing the dependency on chemical fertilizers.
Soil Health: They improve soil structure, enhance microbial activity, and increase organic matter content.
Eco-friendly: Biofertilizers are environmentally friendly, reducing the risk of soil and water pollution associated with chemical fertilizers.
Cost-effective: They can be cost-effective for farmers, particularly in resource-poor settings, as they are often cheaper than synthetic fertilizers and can be produced locally.

Conclusion

Fertilizers play a crucial role in modern agriculture by supplying essential nutrients that support plant growth and productivity. Understanding the types, application methods, and benefits of both synthetic and biofertilizers helps ensure their effective and sustainable use. As the world moves towards more sustainable farming practices, biofertilizers represent a promising solution to enhance soil fertility, protect the environment, and ensure food security.

Read this summary regarding Fertilizers basics pdf made by Fertilizers Europe

2023-11-202023-12-14

Pump up the jam foiling by F-ONE

What is the Jam by F-ONE?

The Jam is a product made by the French famous brand F-ONE.

First of all, this Jam foil is mainly made for dock starts and pump foiling.

It has a 10 aspect ratio which means the foil has a great potential in gliding.

Take-off is supposed to be easy and fast for all riders.

2019-02-112023-01-04

Alicia Keys, a voice and two pianos for a very special medley

We selected delicious and unknown videos of Alicia Keys for your ears’ pleasure, including the two pianos medley at Grammy Awards. Listen…

Continue reading “Alicia Keys, a voice and two pianos for a very special medley”

2018-08-022022-12-13

Palawai Surf School Wave Garden

Palawai Surf School, le Jardin Des Vagues

Bérenger was the surf teacher for Kids from 4 years old who wish to discover sensations in riding waves, by the way did you recognize the power and period of Mediterranean waves? Continue reading “Palawai Surf School Wave Garden”

2017-12-052022-12-13

Angèle, a singer to discover, listen to and listen to again

Angèle, a singer with a sweet and malicious voice

I can not tell you a lot about this young Belgian girl who bathed her childhood in the artistic spiral (lucky her by the way), promised you will know much more the day when I will have the chance to interview her (as well as the members of her artistic family, it would be fun). Continue reading “Angèle, a singer to discover, listen to and listen to again”

2017-10-312022-12-13

MC Solaar, a French rap singer and poet

MC Solaar singing “Solaar pleure” with Bambi Cruz

Can you feel the energy made by both MC Solaar and his friend and producer Bambi Cruz? Continue reading “MC Solaar, a French rap singer and poet”

2015-07-102022-12-13

Portraits of people

A snap view of people

I have always been looking for emotions within portraits I made of people, which is a pretty hard job to fulfill I admit. Continue reading “Portraits of people”

2015-06-182017-12-05

Picture of a group of doctors from GORTEC GETTEC

GORTEC GETTEC Meeting in Montpellier

It is always a pleasure to be hired for making a picture of a bunch of people. I love the adrenaline and excitation before taking the pic.
And on this occasion I had the chance to have all eyes staring at me at the same time. Thanks doctors!
The shooting took place just in front of the University of Medicine of Montpellier, France.

Fabrice Delobette, photographer

Thanks for the kindness and professional job of the printings made by Alize Photos.

2015-05-132019-06-20

Titik Lopes in (his) Parais

Titik Lopes and his playgroung

Thanks my friend for this interview in Cape Verdean creol and for the show on majestic Ponta Preta.

2015-04-192017-12-05

Papy Duarte Strapless Art of Kitesurfing

A piece of Art with Papy Duarte

Masterchief of strapless kitesurfing
Filmed in Sal, Cabo Verde 2013

All clothes are Kitaddict

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2015-03-312017-12-05

Uzès

Uzès Portfolio

Uzès is a small and lovely village situated near Pont du Gard in south of France, not so far from the Mediterranean coast. If you have the chance to move up to Languedoc or Provence, have a look at this admirable and amazing place.

Fabrice Delobette, photographer

2014-10-282017-12-05

Parais, a web serie by Fabrice Delobette

Six years after the shooting of my first web doc in 2006/2007, I was back to my “second home” for another staying.

I had taken my camera with me, and after realizing that Santa Maria had changed since, I truly decided to make another documentary film but in another way, more adapted to web with shorter videos, like a web serie.

Back to France after a couple of weeks spent in Santa Maria do Sal, I actually had a lot of hours of rushes. Many interviews to be translated into English, in addition to my daily work in a web agency and as a freelance in web marketing : when can I find enough time to figure out this project?

I finally decided to start editing a web serie with a portrait of Cape Verdean people.

The first episode is focused to Matchu.

I promise to finish the project.

2014-10-042015-06-11

Strapless Kitesurf Matchu Almeida “Nha Vida”

Matchu Strapless Kitesurfing Cabo Verde

Parais is a web serie I shot in Cabo Verde in 2013 with Matchu impressive strapless kitesurfing, action and other talented surfers, such as Djo Silva, Titik Lopes, Airton Cozzolino Lopes, Papy Duarte and Mitu Monteiro.

Please, watch “Matchu, Nha Vida” in HD :

What

This video was made from the inside of Cabo Verde’s life. A young and talented boy is presented, you’re shown his passion to board sports, especially strapless kitesurfing.

Where

We are in the Island of Sal, Cabo Verde. This archipelago offers a lot for surfers. The swell is perfect, with windy and dry weather. It’s a small piece of desertic land. Beautiful. My second home, always a pleasure to come over and go surfing those giants or filming the local mates, and meeting the population.

Meeting Matchu

Marciel Lopes Almeida known as Matchu, is one of the first Cape Verdean I met When I was living in Santa Maria do Sal. Matchu is a young boy very happy of his waterman life. He was 13 years old when I first met him, he had his windsurfing gear in a center at Ponta Leme Bejde. Six years later, I emerged my camera and shot Matchu and friends kitesurfing strapless, showing his huge talent and kindness.

Many thanks Mat, I wish you the best in your life. Always a pleasure filming you.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2014-09-262023-11-17

Manera Exo Harness

Exo Harness by Manera

This is actually a deceptive advertising for both brands Manera & F-One International, featuring Mitu Monteiro exercising his art of strapless on Ponta Preta wave in Cabo Verde in winter, 2013.

Mitu Monteiro Strapless Manera Exo Harness

Mitu Monteiro is riding strapless Ponta Preta in Cabo Verde with his red harness named Exo :

Exo Harness by Manera & F-One International featuring Mitu Monteiro

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2014-09-112015-06-11

Strapless Ponta Preta Kitesurf Sal Cabo Verde Fabrice Delobette Surf Kite

My Ponta Preta strapless dream

One day it finally happened… A childhood dream is done : surfing one of the most beautiful and huge wave (a right) of the world.

Since I firstly came over to Cape Verde in early 2006 when I discovered the most awesome outdoor show just in front of my eyes, I spent many hours watching and shooting all the riders who could reach to surf fantastic Ponta Preta wave.

And I said to myself : “I would love to be able to surf such a big giant wave one day”.

Six years later, my friend Titik coached me on huge Ponta Preta wave, my first surfs were done, my dream came true, and here are the film shot by my friends :

Thanks Titik Lopes for your advice and incentive & Raphaël Salles & F-one team for your support and confidence.

2014-02-022015-07-11

Marta Federici’s Portfolio

Marta Federici photographer

Marta is a fabulous and hilarious lady I met in Cape Verde. We instantly shared our common passion, photography.

I enjoy the beautiful shots Marta made of us when we were riding Ponta Preta and Leme Bedje waves in Cabo Verde.

Marta Federici makes fantastic pics of people and landscapes.

Mitu Monteiro

Place : Ponta Preta, Sal, Cabo Verde

Titik Lopes

_MF72695

Place : Ponta Preta, Sal, Cabo Verde

Fabrice Delobette

Place : Ponta Preta, Sal, Cabo Verde

_MF72299

Place : Ponta Leme Bedje, Sal, Cabo Verde

Thanks Marta for these great shots!

Photographer : Marta Federici

2014-01-112019-01-23

Manera Exo Harness with Mitu Monteiro Strapless

Mitu Monteiro Strapless hooked by his Exo Harness made by Manera

This is actually a deceptive advertising for both brands Manera & F-One International, featuring Mitu Monteiro exercising his art of strapless on Ponta Preta wave… winter 2013.

Mitu Monteiro is riding strapless Ponta Preta in Cabo Verde with his red harness named Exo :

Exo Harness by Manera & F-One International featuring Mitu Monteiro

Fabrice Delobette, film director & photographer

2013-05-122017-12-05

Dakhla Nomade Camp

Dakhla Nomade Camp kitesurf windsurf surf stand up paddle

nono portrait kite

It is the story of Arnaud, a French passionate rider and traveler who decided to settle down in Dakhla, Morocco, with a very special offer :

I had the opportunity to test all the spots and beautiful places from Dakhla to the Mauritanian border, and made photos and this video for Arnaud’s business and web site.

base mobile mer

This journey was absolutely fantastic and definitely unforgettable : we met a few people in this place situated between ocean and desert and we saw uncountable landscapes. We were offered lobsters by Moroccan fishermen, we had local mint tea time and conversations with soldiers based along the coast.

It is luxury to be able to discover countries in such a way with such a good vibes thanks to Arnaud.

presentation ws2

pano desert mer soleil

dune mer

couchant falaise mer

cratere eau

If you wish a different way of traveling Morocco and Dakhla, check and book on Dakhla Nomade Camp.

Fabrice Delobette, film director and photographer

2013-03-112017-12-05

Strapless Kitesurf Matchu Lopes Almeida “Nha Vida”

Matchu Strapless Kitesurfing Cabo Verde

Please, watch “Matchu, Nha Vida” in HD :

What

This video was made from the inside of Cabo Verde’s life. A young and talented boy is presented, you’re shown his passion to board sports, especially strapless kitesurfing.

Where

Meeting Matchu

Many thanks Mat, I wish you the best in your life. Always a pleasure filming you.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2013-03-112017-12-05

Papy Duarte Art of Strapless Kitesurfing

A piece of Art with Papy Duarte

Masterchief of strapless kitesurfing
Filmed in Sal, Cabo Verde 2013

All clothes are Kitaddict, a French trademark for kiteboarding clothes.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2013-02-112018-12-03

Strapless Ponta Preta Surf Kite Sal Cabo Verde Fabrice Delobette

And Ponta Preta strapless dream came true

One day it finally happened… A childhood dream is done : surfing one of the most beautiful and huge wave (a right) of the world.

And I said to myself : “I would love to be able to surf such a big giant wave one day”.

Six years later, my friend Titik coached me on huge Ponta Preta wave, my first surfs were done, my dream came true, and here are the film shot by my friends :

Thanks Titik Lopes for your advice and incentive & Raphaël Salles & F-one for your support and confidence.

2013-02-032019-02-27

Mitu Monteiro Strapless Kitesurf Cabo Verde

Mitu Monteiro Strapless session at home

After seven years I shot “Sal, Nos Terra” with Djo Silva, Titik Lopes and Mitu Monteiro, it was a pleasure to shoot again Mitu Monteiro from F-One International kiteboarding team.

Mitu is definitely one of the most talented watermen on planet Earth, especially when he puts his feet “around” a surfboard, doing his passion : kitesurfing strapless.

Have a look at the video shot in Sal, Cabo Verde in 2013.

Music is talented “C2C – Down The Road”. Please, watch Mitu’s video in HD :

Thanks again my dear Mitu for letting me put on a Gopro within your kite lines, which is not very comfortable for riding, but the result with the images is awesome.

This video is part of “Parais”, a web series I shot in Cabo Verde in 2013 with Mitu and other talented surfers, such as Djo Silva, Titik Lopes, Airton Cozzolino Lopes, Papy Duarte and Matchu Almeida.

You liked it? Watch the deceptive ad for EXO harness I made with Mitu Monteiro on Ponta Preta wave, the same year.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2013-01-262017-12-05

Titik Kite School Cabo Verde

Titik Kite School Cabo Verde featuring Fabienzinho

This is the story of a young guy named Titik Lopes, born in Santa Maria, Cape Verde, who decided to create his own school, his own business, and try to make his clients happy and succeed in kiteboarding.

Here is the result with one of his client #happy to figure out to do a back loop :

For more information go and visit http://www.titikkitesurf.com/

Titik Kite School on Tripadvisor

Titik Kite School on Facebook

Titik Kitesurf School

2012-04-122017-12-06

Palavas Stand Up Paddle Surfing

Palawaï Stand Up Paddle Surfing

Sunday evening session stand up paddling.

Isn’t it a nice way of ending a weekend with friends?

The gopro was set on a helmet, do not imagine the looking we had.

Still, the images are really fun, and we had a nice swell and very good times altogether.

And a few shots of stand up paddle in Palawaï alias Palavas-Les-Flots, France. Who said there is no cute wave in the Mediterranean sea?

2010-06-292017-12-06

Hoalen

Hoalen Ocean Store

Somewhereontheearth supports the work made by Hoalen in Breizh.

unnamed-1

Hoalen’s motto

“We surf, we row, we sail, we fish and we create what we wear.”

“Hoalen” means “salt” in Breton (French dialect in Brittany). The trademark was founded in 2006 by Eric and Virginie Cantineau in Lilia-Plouguerneau in Finistère, France .

Hoalen was born from the desire to offer high-end clothing for adults inspired by board sports, such as surfing, longboarding…

Alongside its traditional on-line distribution network, Hoalen opened in 2010 its first Ocean Store in Lilia-Plouguerneau, a very special place totaly dedicated to the world of Hoalen’s brand and also a meeting point for board sports enthusiasts.

Hoalen now has 6 Ocean Stores.

2010-05-142017-12-06

Portsall in Breizh

Portsall, a lovely harbor in Breizh

2009-04-122017-12-06

Mitu Monteiro Kite Loop Freestyle Session

Mitu Monteiro training kite loop with friends Airton Cozzolino Lopes & Titik Lopes

Featuring the “diva aux pieds nus” Cesaria Evora singing “Petit pays” and shot with a basic camera

At that time, when Mitu Monteiro was one of the best riders in both freestyle and strapless, Pascal Laborde, a very famous French photographer, made the pics :

2008-09-282017-12-06

London

City of London

London city. The most cosmopolitan city of Europe, settled down in the south east of the island of UK.

The new mayor of Great London, Boris Johnson, has just been elected. I discover Barbican Center, one of the most original and magnificent places of London city.

It is a good opportunity to walk a common path with an architect in such a beautiful sunny city, lucky us.

Raising my head to see the surprising show of buildings everywhere in down town, my camera is stuck to my right hand and after staring at these stunning structures all around us, I keep on shooting and I feel good. London is absolutely warm and full of beauty and admiration.

Fabrice Delobette, photographer

2008-09-092017-12-06

Coldplay Viva La Vida Tour Bercy Paris France

Coldplay playing “Viva La Vida Tour” in Bercy

Paris, France
9 September 2008

That day the place to be was a very special night at Paris Bercy

Many thanks for your invitation guys! I will always remember.

2008-07-062017-12-06

L’appel au voyage (short film)

L’appel au voyage, a short film by Tristan Larsen

Produced by Tristan Larsen & Fabrice Delobette

Artistic team

Natacha : Emmanuelle de Malleray

Darwin : Manuel Olinger

Waiter : Philippe Lobgeois

Technical team

Film writer : Tristan Larsen

Film director : Tristan Larsen

First assistant director : Fabrice Delobette

Technical consultant : Alain Choquart

Camera : Marion Gaillard

Additional camera : Fabrice Delobette

Editors : Cécile Pradère & Fabrice Delobette

Sound : Franck Lawrence

Costume and make-up : Sabrina Fauda-Role

Stage manager : Sébastien Floris

2007-03-212017-12-06

Kauli Seadi Vs. Josh Angulo Ponta Preta Cabo Verde Final PWA Windsurfing

2007-03-062017-12-06

Shark Zone Fashion Cabo Verde

Shark Zone 100% Cabo Verde

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2007-03-062017-12-06

Titik Lopes featuring Windsurfing Vs. Kitesurfing

Titik Lopes Windsurfing Vs. Kitesurfing lesson

This video had a big viral impact on Youtube in so far as the title of the vid is like a legal case. I had a lot of compliment concerning the images and I could read in the numerous comments all the arguments for and against each sport.

This was my first viral video with social media, in early 2008.

Note : Very funny to remember that time when we used a lot the split screen. I have always thought that using it had to be justified to use the split screen.

Within this video of Titik Lopes which teaches us what windsurfing and kitesurfing styles are, I do think the split screen shows how talented is Titik in both sports, wearing the famous orange Shark Zone (c) board short.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2007-02-122017-12-06

Carnaval Santa Maria do Sal Cabo Verde

Carnaval do Sal, Cabo Verde MC Malcriado

2007-02-032017-12-06

Boujmaa Guilloul Mitu Monteiro Djo Silva Titik Lopes

2007-01-122017-12-06

Windsurfing World Cup 2007 Sal

Windsurfing World Cup 2007 Sal Cabo Verde Intro

2007-01-122017-12-06

Baptiste Gossein Ponta Preta Cabo Verde Windsurfing Giant F61

Baptiste Gossein in Ponta Preta Windsurfing Giant Ponta Preta Wave

2007-01-122017-12-06

Mitu Monteiro Dancing Ponta Preta

Mitu Monteiro kiting with Jorge Neto

2007-01-112019-02-27

Kauli Seadi Vs. Josh Angulo Ponta Preta Cabo Verde Final PWA Windsurfing

Final of PWA Windsurfing on Ponta Preta wave in Cape Verde

February 2007

For the first time the PWA stops in Sal. A gift given to me since I am living in Cape Verde. This is defenitly the best outdoor show I have ever seen, being behind my lens, so close to these extreme riders. The final was inbelievable.

By the way… Windsurfing in Cabo Verde : isn’t it a dream of riders? To answer such a question, I am fraid you must go and stand right in front of the wave of Ponta Preta. Then you’ll literaly understand.

Where?

Ponta Preta, which means “Black Point”, is one of the most beautiful waves in the world. The best swell is coming from the north west and breaks on a little area made of rocks and besieged by beautiful beaches.

The video

I am very proud to present you this high class windsurfing action surrounded by Mozart. It is for sure one of my favourite videos.

This short video is the final between Cape Verdean – American Josh Angulo, one of the best windsurfing riders on Planet Earth, especially on “his” wave he has known for more than a decennary, and Brazilian world champion Kauli Seadi.

You will defenitly observe the difference between their riding style.

During the shooting

It was a great experience to shoot the first Final of PWA 2007 Windsurfing Cabo Verde World Cup event between riders Kauli Seadi from Brazil & Josh Angulo from Cape Verde (born in Hawaï, U.S. citizen). Actually, I had the opportunity to be part of this unique international event since I was living in Santa Maria, Island of Sal during the winter season of 2007.

I spent a lot of time on the rocks of Ponta Preta, in the south of the Island of Sal, Cabo Verde. It is always magic to come and sit in front of this wave which offers a majestic show. I think the best moment of the day is the sunset because the sun slowly disapears on the horizon behind this huge wave, and offers many pure and amazing colors.

I have been filming for many hours, especially windsurfing, also surfing and bodyboarding, and kitesurfing when Mitu Monteiro was starting strapless in 2007. It was a brilliant experience to improve how to shoot those guys, feeling how their positioning is going on during long seconds or minutes. Indeed, each rider has its own style and own reading of the wave. I learnt a lot about how to surf such a big, long, swift and massive wave.

I defenitly respect more and more elements after such a priceless experience, nevertheless I was only watching Ponta Preta wave or shooting it with my camera. Never riding this giant wave! In life sometimes you need to be patient.

Post-production

Finaly, I decided during the editing of this short to cover the frames with classical music and especially Mozart (Symphony No. 40 in G) whom I highly appreciate.

I do not regret the choice of the sound selected for this video of Windsurfing Cabo Verde and I will forever keep beautiful images in my mind of this spot situated somewhere on the Earth.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2007-01-042017-12-06

Matchu Lopes Almeida & João Lopes

Matchu Lopes Almeida & João Lopes Interview PWA 2007

2006-12-162019-02-20

“Narina” by Zifa

“Narina”

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2006-12-162019-02-20

“M’Cria Ser Poeta” by Zifa

M’Cria Ser Poeta

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2006-12-132019-02-20

Josh Angulo windsurfing Ponta Preta wave in Cabo Verde

Josh Angulo, the Cape Verdean “Hawaïan” citizen windsurfing Ponta Preta

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2006-10-062019-02-20

Kitesurfing Soma Bay Egypt

Kitesurfing Soma Bay Egypt with Daniel & Ninja Bichler

This video is my first video of kitesurfing, shot in Egypt, Soma Bay, where I had the chance to meet both sister and brother Bichler : Ninja Bichler is a very nice person and excellent strapless kitesurfer (and very good windsurfer too), and Daniel Bichler is a unique person who taught me properly how to kite.

It was in Club Mistral Safaga where I had my first planning kitesurfing, an amazing sensation (I used to have a sail in front of me). Many thanks again mates.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2006-09-302017-12-06

Windsurfing Sidi Kaouki

Windsurfing huge conditions in Sidi Kaouki

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2006-01-232017-12-06

Björn Dunkerbeck Raphael Salles Titik Lopes Ponta Leme Bedje

Sunset meeting with Björn Dunkerbeck, Raphaël Salles & Titik Lopes riding Ponta Leme Bedje in Sal Island, Cape Verde

I had the chance to meet talented riders Björn Dunkerbeck windsurfing, Raphaël Salles & Titik Lopes kitesurfing, this was my first day in Cape Verde. A present of life.

Al of them were riding Ponta Leme Bedje in Sal Island, Cape Verde for the sunset session, in perfect and beautiful waves.

I will always remember the colors of the sky during this sunset.

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2006-01-122017-12-06

Cabo Verde Shore Break Sal windsurf & kitesurf

Cabo Verde Shore Break Santa Maria do Sal windsurf & kitesurf

2006-01-122019-02-20

Mitu Monteiro windsurfing Ponta Leme Bedje wave

Mitu Monteiro windsurfing cabo Verde

Did you know Mitu Monteiro is an excellent windsurfer?

2006-01-122017-12-06

Santa Maria do Sal

Santa Maria do Sal Cabo Verde

Early 2006… which means cold winter in France, the best time to travel far away in a warm and windy place.

A friend (who owns an interesting blog SEO & Marketing & Online Travel) had told me about Sal Island and its virtues for relaxing, hanging around, sailing and meeting a very nice population. I decided to take a return airplane ticket from Paris with a friend. I never regretted it and I will always remember such a fantastic time spent in a very small village called Santa Maria situated in Island of Sal in Cape Verde.

We landed in a lovely boarding house called “Nha Terra” (which actually means “my land” in Portuguese and spent a lot of time on the beach at Club Mistral in the bay of Santa Maria, and obviously on the majestic ocean.

The first music in this video is a local Cape Verdean artist I heard during the breakfast in the pension Nha Terra. I asked the staff who was singing, they whispered the name of Jorge Neto, excellent for taking along my film. Watch it out !

2006-01-062017-12-06

Mitu Monteiro Windsurf Ballet

Fabrice Delobette, film director

2006-01-062019-02-20

Windsurfing Ponta Preta Cabo Verde Dreamin’

Windsurfing Josh Angulo, Brasilian and Cabo Verde teams

This video was shot in Ponta Preta. I love the first plan introducing US rider Josh Angulo, followed by local cape verdeans Titik Lopes, Djo Silva & Mitu Monteiro. And because language has the power to unify people, their new friends were riding with them (and more in this video of a windsurfing trip in Sal, cape Verde) Ricardo Campello, Marcilio Browne & Kauli Seadi.

2006-01-032017-12-06