Tourism4SDG is an initiative, co-financed by the European Union within the Interreg Europe programme, aiming to enhance local, regional and national policy instruments to effectively achieve sustainable tourism in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
La Rochelle became the hub for sustainable tourism discussions as it hosted the third interregional meeting of the Tourism4SDG project, bringing together partners from across Europe to exchange innovative solutions, policy insights, and best practices. Over two days, local governments, tourism stakeholders, and experts gathered to explore how sustainability can be integrated into tourism strategies to ensure long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits.
The event, hosted by the Communauté d’Agglomération de La Rochelle, began at TRIBORD Sailing Lab by Decathlon, where Ms. Sylvie Guerry-Gazeau, Vice President in charge of International Cooperation, European Projects, and Gender Equality, and Mayor of Clavette, and Ms. Chantal Subra, Community Councillor responsible for promoting visitor destinations within the La Rochelle Urban Community and for backshore tourism, and Mayor of Salles-sur-Mer, welcomed participants. The city’s commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainable tourism was a key focus, with discussions highlighting how La Rochelle is leading the way through the La Rochelle Zero Carbon Project, sustainable tourism initiatives, and collaborative efforts such as the Carbon Cooperative. These initiatives illustrate how tourism can be a driver for positive environmental change when integrated with broader sustainability strategies.
The meeting also provided a platform for partners from across Europe to present their progress in promoting sustainability in tourism. From climate-neutral tourism models and green mobility solutions to cross-border cooperation and responsible tourism monitoring, partners shared diverse approaches to ensuring tourism growth aligns with sustainability goals. Discussions emphasized the importance of policy engagement, stakeholder involvement, and innovative digital solutions to track sustainability performance and guide decision-making.
Local perspectives played a crucial role in shaping the discussions, with contributions from La Rochelle’s tourism actors who shared experiences in destination management and responsible tourism practices. Topics ranged from the role of eco-responsible third places like Les Cabanes Urbaines, which promote coworking and cultural activities with a strong focus on sustainability, to the impact of short-term rentals on housing availability and tourism balance. Businesses also highlighted their efforts in integrating sustainability into hospitality, destination management, and event planning, showcasing how different sectors can contribute to responsible tourism development.
Beyond the formal discussions, participants had the opportunity to gain deeper insights into La Rochelle’s sustainable tourism vision during a special reception at La Rochelle City Hall. Mr. Jean-François Fountaine, Mayor of La Rochelle, welcomed the delegation, sharing the city’s long-term ambitions for sustainable tourism and the strategies being implemented to balance economic development with environmental responsibility. The evening provided a moment to appreciate local traditions, as guests were invited to enjoy a tasting of Cognac Normandin Mercier, an emblematic regional product that embodies La Rochelle’s heritage and craftsmanship.
The event concluded with a study visit to the Chantier des Francofolies, where participants explored how cultural festivals are incorporating sustainability practices. The visit, led by Emilie Yakich, provided an opportunity to reflect on how large-scale events can minimize their environmental impact while fostering local cultural and economic benefits.
The discussions in La Rochelle reaffirmed that sustainable tourism is not just about reducing environmental impact but also about enhancing community well-being, preserving local heritage, and fostering economic resilience. The insights and best practices shared during the meeting will contribute to improving tourism policies across Europe, helping regions develop smarter, greener, and more inclusive tourism models.
As the Tourism4SDG project moves forward, La Rochelle’s role as a host city reinforces the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in building a more sustainable future for European tourism.
For more information about the Tourism4SDG project, please visit www.interregeurope.eu/tourism4sdg