Meeting the expectations of tourism-sector clients and event organisers
On 13 June 2019, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs announced the “Responsible International Destinations” programme. Implemented during the G7 in August 2019 in Biarritz, this programme aims to create momentum in the territories to make France a responsible destination. Rennes Métropole is one of the nine pilot destinations chosen to implement ISO 20121 standard. The nine destinations chosen are: Rennes, Marseille, Metz, Deauville, Nancy, Cannes, Bordeaux, Nantes and Biarritz.
“We are delighted to be participating in this international process that recognises and extends the work of metropolitan actors in tourism and professional meetings. This approach to environmental responsibility, primarily in terms of civic affairs, is also a response that is expected by tourists and event organisers, meaning that it is an asset that boosts the appeal of our city” explains Jean-François Kerroc’h, Managing Director of Destination Rennes
A pilot programme in favour of commitment to environmental responsibility at tourist destinations
During the G7 in August 2019, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs wanted to launch a pilot programme in favour of commitment to environmental responsibility at tourist destinations, in collaboration with France Congrès & Evénements and the Green Evénements consultancy firm. The writing of the “Responsible International Destinations” reference document will be based on the experience of nine destinations in France that have been singled out for their remarkable actions and ambition with regard to the environment and responsible commitment. Rennes Métropole is one of these nine destinations involved in the joint creation of the reference document, which was presented to the global tourism sector at the end of August 2019 in Biarritz. This completes the ISO 20121 standard “Responsible management systems applied to the events industry” that is already in place.
In this context, Green Evénements has met with various businesses in Rennes in order to identify the environmentally responsible policies and actions led in the region. Among the main initiatives that allow Rennes Métropole to stand out from the national level the following examples can be cited:
- The Climate Air Energy Plan adopted in April 2019 and its objectives aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions per resident by 2030 and thereby ensure a healthy living standard for residents
- The Commitment to Environmental Responsibility Charter for actors in tourism and business meetings
- Actions have been taken at the Couvent des Jacobins to reduce the environmental impact of events: green mobility to reach the site, proximity of hotels and restaurants, a water filtration system to reduce the use of plastic, reducing and separating waste, actions taken with the company Phenix to avoid food waste, to name a few.
- ISO 20121 certification for several actors in the events and entertainment industry
The objective of this approach launched by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs is to aim for ISO 20121 certification in the regions by assisting them in their strategies for sustainable development. While it has, until now, been directed at those in the events industry, the ISO 20121 standard aims to overcome social, economic and environmental impacts. Its range will now enable territories that are popular for leisure and business tourism to have their commitment acknowledged as being “Responsible International Destinations”.
The work undertaken by Destination Rennes in this strategy will involve all actors in the industry.