Bordeaux Pours Sustainability Into Every Glass

Bordeaux has positioned responsible tourism as a core part of its destination identity, offering a strong example of how cities can embed sustainability into both tourism communication and operations. The city recognizes the challenge of balancing rising visitor numbers with the protection of cultural and natural resources, and it has responded by making sustainability a visible, accessible, and integral part of its tourism brand.

For Travelers

A dedicated sustainability webpage provides travelers with practical guidance on how to explore the region responsibly. Organized under clear subheadings, the page highlights everyday actions visitors can take such as choosing eco-friendly transportation, booking sustainable accommodations, and respecting local communities. This approach not only raises awareness but also makes responsible choices straightforward and actionable for travelers.

Partners

One of Bordeaux’s most effective strategies is the promotion of eco-certified partners. Hotels, restaurants, shops, museums, wine châteaux, and tour operators that carry official certifications are highlighted with a recognizable sticker (green leaf). This system builds trust with tourists while strengthening partnerships with the local business community. It ensures that sustainability is not only communicated but actively practiced across multiple sectors of the tourism economy.

Viticulture

What makes Bordeaux stand out globally is its integration of responsible viticulture into its sustainability story. Wine is central to the region’s identity, and by 2020, 75% of Bordeaux vineyards had adopted a certified environmental approach. This large-scale commitment demonstrates how an iconic industry can embrace change and use sustainability as a selling point, enriching the visitor experience “from the vineyard to the glass.”

Through these initiatives, Bordeaux demonstrates that sustainability can be embedded into a destination’s brand, its partnerships, and its core operations.

Key Takeaways

• Clear communication matters. Organizing information under accessible subheadings helps visitors quickly understand how to act responsibly.
• Local partnerships are essential. Highlighting eco-certified partners builds credibility and supports businesses invested in sustainability.
• Identity integration creates impact. By connecting responsible tourism to its wine heritage, Bordeaux makes sustainability a defining feature of the visitor experience.
• Scalability is possible. With three-quarters of vineyards certified, Bordeaux shows that entire industries can transition toward sustainable practices.