The Paul Ricard Oceanographic Institute, a corporate scientific philanthropy initiative of the Pernod Ricard Group, works to “understand, explain and protect the sea” through research programmes and conservation actions to preserve the ocean, climate and biodiversity. Created in 1966 by Paul Ricard and Alain Bombard in response to one of the first cases of industrial pollution in the Mediterranean, the Institute operates today on a public-private-philanthropic partnerships (PPPP) model.
More than ever, nature-based or bio-inspired solutions are at the heart of the Institute’s research and activities in the field of sustainability science. The Institute takes part in European and private programmes and focuses on various areas of expertise: innovative and sustainable aquaculture, ecological restoration, nature-based solutions, biomimicry, biodiversity monitoring, environmental DNA, and bioacoustics. This enables the teams to strengthen knowledge sharing and skills transfer on sustainability issues for marine activities. Since its creation, the Institute has been supported by Pernod Ricard France, which provides the researchers, who are also divers, with technical support to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to face environmental challenges.
Created in 2017, the Martell Foundation (Fondation d’entreprise Martell) has become a platform of research and experimentation for designers, artists and researchers, as well as a place of learning and understanding for the general public.
The Foundation is committed to supporting a new generation of creators who are sensitive to ecological and social issues, and who are eager to develop a mindset and design approach centered on resilience in connection with different regions. Its programme of exhibitions, residencies, conferences, and workshops is dedicated to supporting, without borders, the emergence of projects that aim to chart new paths toward a fairer future.
In 2024, the exhibitions JB Blunk - Continuum and Chemin creux - Mathilde Pellé highlighted both historical and contemporary figures committed to combining simplicity with creativity. Nineteen laureates were selected for a residency focused on artistic experimentation and production within the Foundation’s studios. The cultural programme offered monthly meetings with resident creators, as well as the Ordinaire Extra! programme dedicated to young audiences during school holidays. To broaden the reach of its initiatives, the Foundation also occasionally organises off-site events during major moments such as Paris Design Week or Art Basel Paris.