We aim to develop our activity on a balanced basis for the benefit of all.
© Teddy Verneuil
Tourism activities must ensure harmonious relations between residents, tourism professionals and visitors, while protecting the environment. At a time when professionals are reflecting on the tourism of tomorrow, visitors are re-thinking their habits and we are all facing climate change, there is a clear need to reinvent the codes of urban tourism and events.
Numerous studies show that the expectations of tourists and event organisers are changing. According to a 2023 study by Atout France on tourist awareness of sustainable tourism, 75 to 95% of potential customers for France as a destination are aware of environmental issues, and at least 50% say they would prefer France to other destinations if it developed concrete actions in this area.
Residents, associations, professionals working in the tourism and events industries, elected local officials, neighbouring territories and representatives from institutions… We aim to involve all types of people whose lives are impacted by our activity in its governance.
This open and participative approach has enabled us to collectively build our 2022 roadmap for the Bordeaux metropolitan area: Building, together, a destination recognised for responsible tourism (‘Bâtir, ensemble, une destination reconnue de tourisme responsable’). This action plan fulfils the sustainable development goals set out by the United Nations. We want to create a synergy between public and private actors in order to encourage, accompany and highlight the constant development of environmentally responsible initiatives across the destination.
© Nicolas Duffaure
Ongoing actions at the Tourism and Convention Office
Bordeaux Métropole Tourism and Convention Office (OTCBM) is taking action for a tourism and events industry with a positive impact for residents, visitors and the environment. Since 2019, it has taken part in the GDS-Index and has been awarded the French “Qualité Tourisme” and “Tourisme et Handicap” labels, and received ISO20121 certification for the responsible management of its events industry.
The 4 axis of the Metropolitan strategy for sustainable tourism & events
Assisting tourist attractions and facilities in transitioning to responsible practices
Placing the inhabitant at the heart of tourism in a destination that espouses social conscience and solidarity
Developing professional meetings and large-scale events that have a positive impact on the area
Managing the economic development of tourism in a sustainable way