Sustainable tourism in France

Visited by millions of people every year, France is a favourite destination for tourists. The richness of its historical and natural heritage attracts many foreigners and French people alike who are looking to discover or rediscover the country’s most beautiful regions. Whether in towns or the countryside, by the sea or at the foot of a mountain, France offers a variety of landscapes, each as breathtaking as the next, ensuring there is something to satisfy every visitor. Faced with this influx of tourists, the French tourism sector has sought to implement sustainable tourism solutions aimed at reducing the impact of conventional tourism and visitors’carbon footprints.

What is sustainable tourism?

Sustainable tourism is an approach that aims to respect the environment by minimising the impact of tourism on nature. It is defined by the World Tourism Organisation as ‘tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, whilst meeting the needs of visitors, environmental professionals and host communities’. It is based on the three pillars of sustainable development: environment, economy and society. As the world’s leading industry, those involved in tourism – accommodation providers, restaurateurs and leisure organisations – have a vital role to play in the transition towards sustainable and more responsible tourism.

The challenges

The challenges facing sustainable tourism are economic, environmental and social. This approach encourages the creation of innovative solutions that areviable in the long term. The aim is to enable local communities to reap the benefits of sustainable tourism through job creation and economic gains, whilst making optimal use of environmental resources with a view to preserving and safeguarding natural resources and the environment.

To support micro-enterprises and SMEs in the hospitality and accommodation sectors located in rural areas, the Agency for Ecological Transition has set up a Sustainable Tourism Fund worth 50 million euros. This recovery plan aims to encourage the implementation of concrete environmental measures. The aim is to accelerate the transition of tourism provision and services towards models that are more sustainable, low-carbon, socially responsible and respectful of local communities’ quality of life.

How can you practise sustainable tourism in France?

Planning your trip

For your next holiday in France, opt for sustainable tourism and travel responsibly whilst respecting the environment. Whether it’s ecotourism, solidarity tourism or slow tourism, choose the form of tourism that best reflects your values.

Choosing your destination is a key part of sustainable tourism, so opt for cities or regions that aren’t too far away. Once you’ve made your choice, to get the most out of your destination, it’s best to plan a trip during the off-season, from October to March, to avoid the influx of tourists during the school holidays.

Next comes the time to book accommodation. To help you navigate the range of establishments in the area where you’ll be staying, look out for the labels and certifications they hold. The Marseille Tourist, Leisure and Convention Bureau encourages and supports establishments wishing to obtain them. Green Globe, Clef Verte, Écolabel, Écogite and Gite Panda all recognise tourist accommodation (hotels, holiday cottages, campsites and B&Bs) for their commitment to sustainable tourism. Obtaining these labels is based on an assessment of criteria set by the awarding bodies; these relate in part to environmental awareness, waste management, and water andenergyconsumption. Solidarity-based tourism encourages travellers to immerse themselves in their destination by staying with local residents; it is a way of building relationships with local communities and enjoying a unique experience.

When it comes to getting around, avoid flying and opt for public transport instead. There are now plenty of alternatives to polluting modes of transport available across France. Trains, buses, car-sharing, the metro, cycling or electric vehicles – with all these sustainable, low-carbon transport options, you’ll find the one that best suits your needs whilst you’re here. Marseille is one of the major cities that has developed its urban and inter-city transport network to make getting around easier and encourage people to use sustainable transport.

Activities play an important role in sustainable tourism; they must be in line with environmental protection whilst raising tourists’ awareness of conservation. Opt for outdoor leisure activities, such as an introduction to water sports: canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming in Lake Serre-Ponçon or Lake Annecy, or a simple trip on an electric boat on the River Rhône. France also boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that allow you to explore nature and its magnificent landscapes, from Corsica to Mont Blanc. If you prefer cultural activities, the country is home to numerous architectural gems that bear witness to its history. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille, Reims Cathedral, the Louvre Museum in Paris…so many French monuments that will amaze you with their splendour.