What is the Tēnaka Project?
Tēnaka is about diving headfirst into regeneration and regenerative business. This social business bridges companies with ocean-based solutions, reconnecting corporate efforts to nature’s pulse. Rebuilding marine life—especially our coral reefs, mangrove forests, and endangered species—is key to mitigating the climate crisis. The project’s concept is crystal clear: by developing scientific, tailor-made programs, Tēnaka engages staff, customers, and stakeholders in a way that makes every corporate act part of saving the world’s oceans. It’s a fusion of deep ecological awareness and business drive, all wrapped up in an authentic mission to restore our planet’s lungs.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Several impressive numbers and facts underline the practical benefits:
- A Hawksbill Turtle, nearly extinct, found refuge in the Pomellato restored coral reef in Malaysia.
- Coral reefs are home to one-third of all marine biodiversity, highlighting their immense ecological value.
- A mangrove plantation in New Caledonia, initiated for Henner insurance group, saw 2,600 propagules planted in October 2023—doubling in size within a year at high tide.
- Mangroves capture five times more carbon than terrestrial forests, acting as vital coastal ramparts against erosion and storms.
- The Tēnaka Science® platform, re-developed with Orange Business EU, provides state-of-the-art impact reports and innovative CSRD support.
- CSR commitments are on the rise: 80% of investors now include socio-environmental impacts in funding decisions, and 70-88% of consumers (especially Millennials and Gen Z) support brands aligned with such values.
Innovative Technology and Data Initiative
Because climate disruptions are accelerating, Tēnaka has pushed the technological frontier with Station 16-1546. This initiative steps up marine protected area conservation by collecting, transmitting, and automating data from reefs. With a 5000msq reef restoration underway, the collaboration with Orange Business EU is transforming the Tēnaka Science® impact measurement platform. AI-driven scientific visualization now allows partners to engage customers and key stakeholders seamlessly, with large-scale reef data empowering eco-divers to monitor and protect marine biodiversity like never before… it’s innovation at its best.
CSR, HR, and Customer Programs
Tēnaka’s approach isn’t one-size-fits-all. The project offers tailored CSR programs that help companies meet evolving CSRD obligations while making their business truly regenerative. Then there’s the HR program—recognizing that 67% of young adults are ready to leave their employer if their social or environmental values aren’t reflected in workplace practices. This initiative builds unique engagement mechanisms around coral and mangrove restoration, boosting employee retention and differentiation. Also, the Customer Program is designed to help brands connect with the growing market of environmentally conscious consumers: 70% of customers adjust their loyalty based on socio-environmental commitments, reaching as high as 88% among younger demographics. Through curated tools, brands can integrate ocean regeneration into in-store experiences, product design, CSR reporting, and social media campaigns.
Impressive Case Studies
Real-world examples powerfully illustrate the Tēnaka impact. For instance, DoDo—an Italian jewelry house and member of the Kering group—has engaged its customers with ocean regeneration initiatives. Using products crafted from upcycled materials, consumers get exclusive access to the Tēnaka Science® platform, where they can virtually dive into the brand’s coral reef and mangrove forest. In just three days, these products often sell out. Another standout is the collaboration with Orange Business, part of the global Orange group known for sustainable digital transformation. Their ambitious coral restoration program engages 30,000 diverse employees around the globe. Additionally, Moonlike, a Parisian communication agency striving to be a pioneering ethical force, co-created the Moonlikes Ocean program. Operating somewhat like an investment fund through a fixed percentage of turnover and client quotes, the program finances coral reef restorations, further underlining the power of purpose-driven business.
Engaging Environmental Action and Future Value
The project is as much about transformative ideas as it is about impressive results. Tēnaka seamlessly combines digital innovation, sustainability programs, and real-life conservation efforts to make a measurable impact. With a blend of CSR, HR, and Customer initiatives, the project demonstrates how engaging employees and aligning with consumer values can elevate a company’s brand while actively restoring vital ecosystems. It’s a dynamic, forward-thinking approach that modern businesses can adopt to drive real change—a call to action that resonates with today’s evolving market landscape.
Project Impact and SDGs
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Enhancing natural carbon sinks and addressing global warming.
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – Protecting and restoring marine biodiversity and coral reefs.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Supporting coastal ecosystems like mangrove forests that safeguard shorelines.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Uniting businesses and conservation efforts for lasting impact.
Transformative Action for a Sustainable Future
Tēnaka is ranked among the top 200 companies worldwide with unparalleled power to boost coral conservation and restoration, as recognized by the G20 Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP). This accolade, set up by the G20, brings together the brightest minds to fast-track R&D solutions critical for saving coral reefs and marine life. It’s a project that not only enriches partner companies but also contributes meaningfully to global socio-environmental progress. By embedding sustainable transitions at the heart of business models, Tēnaka creates a ripple effect—transforming corporate responsibility into measurable environmental action. This unique blend of science, technology, and heartfelt corporate commitment paves the way for a future where every business act becomes a step toward a more regenerative and resilient planet.
