The sustainable tourism market - France

The sustainable tourism market has witnessed significant growth, with the global market valued at around 203.4 billion euros in 2019 and projected to reach approximately 340.4 billion euros by 2027. This market is evolving with a compound annual growth rate of 23.2% from 2021 to 2027.

France, being a pivotal tourist destination, contributed 48 million international tourists in 2021 and is actively working towards sustainability, as 46% of the French population consider sustainability when planning vacations. The French market for sustainable tourism was estimated at 0.757 billion euros in 2021, and it is forecasted to grow by 20% annually, potentially doubling in size by 2026.

Although there's a high demand for sustainable tourism—driven by environmental concerns—growth is somewhat limited by higher costs and a lack of adequate supply. In response, the French government allocated 50 million euros to reform the industry, focusing on sectors like catering and accommodation. There is an evident trend towards more eco-friendly travel practices, yet financial constraints remain a challenge, as over half of travelers find sustainable options expensive. Associations and public sector interventions are crucial in guiding this transition, with associations like Acteurs du Tourisme Durable and label initiatives like the Clef Verte playing significant roles. Despite the challenges, the trends indicate a robust shift towards sustainable tourism practices on a global scale.

Demand for Sustainable Tourism in France: A Conscious Shift Towards Greener Travel

In recent years, the awareness and importance of environmental sustainability in tourism have gained significant traction in France. French travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint while on vacation, with a marked shift toward sustainable practices. Approximately half of the French population, or between 30 and 35 million people, are sensitive to sustainable tourism, showing a preference for eco-friendly travel options. The demand is not only driven by individual awareness but also by a desire to preserve the environment, support local economies, and respect the cultural integrity of travel destinations. In 2021, France welcomed between 45 and 50 million international tourists, highlighting the necessity to manage tourism sustainably to mitigate the impacts of overtourism.

Despite a growing interest in eco-conscious travel, there are challenges that curtail the acceleration of sustainable tourism. Economic factors play a significant role, with over half of travelers concerned about the costs associated with sustainable travel options, which are perceived to be more expensive. The rising inflation rates, which have hovered around 4% in recent years, further exacerbate concerns about affording sustainable tourism. Moreover, supply-side limitations pose another critical obstacle. Around 24% of French tourists claim that insufficient information and visibility of sustainable tourism offerings limit their ability to opt for greener travel choices. The lack of comprehensive and readily accessible sustainable travel options and organizations complicates the decision-making process for travelers seeking to lessen their impact on the environment.

Despite these challenges, the French government and numerous non-profit organizations are championing the shift towards sustainable tourism. Through the establishment of funds like the Sustainable Tourism Fund and commitments to national plans, the public sector is investing in the transformation of France into a sustainable tourism hotspot.

Drivers of Sustainable Travel: Key Players Championing Eco-Conscious Journeys

As the world gravitates towards more environmentally friendly and sustainable practices, the tourism sector is no exception. Several pioneering companies and organizations are steering the shift towards conscientious travel, creating memorable experiences that leave a light footprint on our planet. Each player, from boutique agencies to global associations, contributes uniquely to the tapestry of sustainable tourism.

Boutique and Specialized Travel Agencies

Fueling the demand for eco-responsible travel are specialty travel agencies that have emerged as fervent promoters of sustainable tourism.

• Voyageurs du Monde offers environmentally conscious travel packages, tailoring experiences that are sustainable yet luxurious.
• Other agencies like Akaoka and Atalante focus on adventure and exploration, ensuring that their treks and tours respect the delicate balance of nature and local cultures.
• Culturescontact and Men and mountains approach sustainable tourism with a holistic perspective, integrating cultural sensitivity with nature conservation in their offerings.
• Meanwhile, Chamina voyages pioneers in slow travel, encouraging travelers to embrace the journey as much as the destination.
• Agencies such as Saiga and Vision du monde put emphasis on genuine encounters with local communities, fostering a sense of global solidarity and ethical tourism.

Emerging Tour Operators with a Vision

The tour operator segment is marked by a commitment to curate eco-friendly travel itineraries.

• Amatera and Double Sens - Voyage et Partage stand out for designing trips which serve a dual purpose: delighting travelers and benefiting local economies.
• Grand Angle points its compass towards nature excursions that celebrate bio-diversity without compromising it.
• Les ateliers du voyage and Les Maisons du Voyage are lauded for crafting cultural experiences that are as enriching as they are mindful of local heritage and practices.
• Voyages d'exception does justice to its name by handpicking destinations and experiences that are unique in flavor but unified in their commitment to sustainability.

Associations Spearheading the Sustainable Movement

• At the heart of the movement for a greener tourism industry are significant associations like Acteurs du Tourisme Durable and Agir pour un Tourisme Responsable (ATR). These organizations band industry players together and drive collaborative efforts to transition toward responsible tourism practices.
• Additionally, international groups such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and the Association pour le Tourisme Equitable et Solidaire (ATES) work

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 05/09/2023

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Trends in the size of the global sustainable tourism market
• International tourism receipts: percentage of 2019 levels recovered in the first quarter of 2023
• Change in the proportion of travelers intending to stay in sustainable accommodation at least once in the coming year
• Growth in the size of the sustainable tourism market (prospective)
• Answers to the question "Are you very, rather, rather not or not at all careful, when you go on a trip, to respect the environment and the lives of local people?"
• Answers to the question: "Have you ever travelled responsibly?
• Answers to the question "When you're on vacation, do you try to reconcile tourism and ecology?"
• Ranking of countries receiving the most international tourists
• Inflation trend
• Answers to the question "Which of the following do you consider when planning your vacation?"
• Poll: "Would you be willing to pay more for the following items when traveling?"
• Answers to the question: "Should there be proposals for responsible holidays on travel sites?"
• Answers to the question: "For you, a sustainable vacation is a way to:"
• Responses to the question: "During your vacations, what proportion of products do you consume from local producers and artisans?"