The Siberian Odyssey, a practical dream

Nicolas Vanier took on an unprecedented challenge: to cross Siberia from east to west, from Lake Baikal to Moscow's Red Square. The purpose of this adventure:

• to explain the big issues associated with the future of the planet (climate change, biodiversity, deforestation),
• to encourage everyone to act, to adopt a few simple habits that will benefit the planet, 
• to encourage people to live in balance with nature.

A common vision and shared values

The partnership between Gaz de France and Nicolas Vanier is founded on:

• a common vision: only good management of resources can guarantee sustainable progress and the balance of nature. Human beings, like companies, need to think about using these resouces responsibly. 
• shared values:
  • respect for the environment: both partners are committed to fighting climate change, and recommend sustainable methods of production and consumption, 
  • excellence: Gaz de France and Nicolas Vanier seek to emphasise self-control, self-discipline, innovation and perseverance,
  • solidarity: linking people and land together and the commitment to humanitarian or environmental causes lie at the heart of the actions undertaken by the adventurer and the Group, 
  • accessibility: the Siberian Odyssey makes scientific knowledge accessible to everyone, raises awareness and encourages everyone to take action in their everyday lives.
• A sustainable partnership: for Gaz de France, protecting the environment is about long-term, reciprocal commitments. The partnership with Nicolas Vanier is no exception to this rule:
  • Gaz de France has backed Nicolas Vanier's projects since 2004. The Group was involved in the production of the explorer's first film: “The Last Trapper”,
  • Gazprom, Gaz de France's Russian partner, gave great support to the Siberian Odyssey (supply of equipment, food drops for the dogs, etc.).