The Tourist Office is committed
In tune with the inspirations of the time, as an actor attentive to the progress of the world, We, Niort – Marais Poitevin Tourist Office, are fully committed to responsible and itinerant tourism.
We are looking for softer modes of transport, more environmentally friendly (like cycling rather than driving), accommodation and activities that support local economies et preserve local cultures and traditions.
We also offer visitors reduce their carbon footprint by limiting their energy and water consumption, choosing local products and reducing their waste. Responsible tourism is a global and conscious approach to travel which aims to maximize benefits for local communities and the environment, while minimizing negative impacts.
Here are some actions that we have been able to put in place in order to promote responsible tourism:
- Promoting soft mobility : we encourage visitors and locals to use more environmentally friendly modes of transport especially with the Tanlib bus network 100% free serving the entire Agglomeration Community of Niort and renting bikes to take full advantage of dense network of cycle paths.
- Encourage outdoor activities : we promote outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, boat trips, treasure hunts which allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while respecting the environment.
- Limit paper consumption : in order to preserve natural resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (due to paper manufacturing), we decided to promote digitization to share certain documents electronically, such as roaming cards or circuits. You will therefore hardly find any more paper in our tourist receptions.
- The purchase of a electric car : we acquired an electric car in 2022 to make our various trips in the territory (in particular the device Outside the walls stay advisors). By opting for an electric vehicle, we contribute to reduce our carbon footprint and thus participate in preserving the environment why preserved natural park.
- A new, more responsible website: On May 30, 2023, our new website is officially online. Concerned about reducing our digital impact, it was essential to find the compromise between performance and environmental impact. The selected agency offered us several features to implement in order to make the site less energy intensive. In fact, you will find during your navigation a headband where it will be possible for you “to activate eco-fashion”. Once this module is activated, a reduction in the loading of multimedia content will be made, making it easier to operate the website.
The territory is committed
Actions in favor of sustainable development are an integral part of the boxes to be checked when we are labeled Grand Site de France and Marais Poitevin Regional Natural Park.
Niort, a naturally sustainable city
01. Niort 2030 is now!
City Niort was the first city of its size to have integrated the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set by theONU. The goal of Niort 2030 is to set the city in motion to achieve these objectives. Its actions are broken down into eight challenges:
- A green and blue city, which allows human life in harmony with biodiversity.
- A sustainable city that combines climate preservation, quality of life and energy savings.
- A nourishing city where Local agricultural production provides healthy, quality food.
- A sober city with responsible lifestyles, production and consumption.
- A civic, cultural and safe city where each actor is co-responsible well-being and the common good.
- A fulfilling city for young people, through education and training, for better access to employment and good living conditions.
- A united city with inclusive practices which gives equal opportunities to all and strengthens ties to leave no one behind.
- A healthy and sporty city, which preserves and improves the health of all.
02. Galuchet: a nature reserve
The Galuchet marsh is an area of nearly 50 hectares located very close to the university campus. A summary of wet marsh very preserved which houses a fragile and rare fauna and flora. Alder-ash groves, meadows, reed beds... are places where otters, herons, frogs, bats, Alpine rosalies, migratory fish… The city and its partners are committed to obtaining its ranking in Regional nature reserve, encompassing the 70 hectares of the Chey and La Rousille. The largest natural area in an urban environment in France is on its way!
03. Urban nature park
The park of Pre-Leroy is an essential part of the Urban Natural Park. Few cities can boast of such a space located in their center. Public pool, playground, skate park, walking path and grassy areas make up this 2 hectare site.
04. The Gardens of the Brèche
In the heart of the city, a few steps from the shopping streets, it is a green space of 4 hectares. A lawn, paths lined with bushes and hundred-year-old plane trees, an esplanade with bars, cinema and restaurants gathered for your greatest pleasure. It is the meeting place for all Niortais and particularly in summer since the Jardins de la Brèche were designed to create islands of freshness during periods of extreme heat. There are also many water games to cool off there.
Eco-labelled municipalities
Saint-Hilaire-la-Palud labeled “Station Verte”
Station Verte is a national tourist label created in 1964 by the French Federation of Stations Vertes, in order to develop rural tourism while participating in the preservation of local areas and their economic dynamism. It works with its 500 municipalities to preserve the land and the quality of life of its inhabitants, while contributing to their economic dynamism. It is the 1st ecotourism label in France.
