Preserving the environment and reducing our ecological footprint are part of the daily priorities of the Aquarium La Rochelle. This approach is now backed by the NF Environnement Sites de visite certification, awarded by AFNOR Certification, which recognizes tourist attractions committed to a concrete sustainable development approach.

For over 60 years, the Aquarium La Rochelle has been raising visitors’ awareness of the richness and fragility of the Ocean through its mission: to inspire wonder and understanding of the sea in order to better protect it. This certification highlights a long-standing commitment to marine biodiversity, the environment, and more responsible tourism.

Actions and commitments

« Because there is no such thing as big and small actions for the planet. »

Building energy and performance

Managing energy consumption is a major focus of the Aquarium La Rochelle’s environmental approach. The site regularly invests in high-performance equipment and has tools in place to precisely monitor its consumption and continuously improve its energy efficiency.

104 m² of photovoltaic panels installed on the Aquarium’s roof.
High-performance heat pumps upgraded to reduce energy consumption.
Building Management System (BMS) for controlling heating, air conditioning, and lighting.
Detailed consumption monitoring through dedicated sub-meters.
100% of lighting replaced with low-energy equipment.

Preserving water resources

Because preserving the Ocean also starts with responsible freshwater management, the Aquarium La Rochelle implements various solutions to reduce its consumption and optimize the use of this resource on a daily basis.

Water-efficient taps and sanitary fixtures.
Rainwater harvesting across nearly 570 m² of roofing.
Eight storage tanks supplying the tropical greenhouse.
Use of water-retaining granules to significantly reduce watering needs.

Reducing and recovering waste

Waste reduction and recovery are an important focus of the Aquarium La Rochelle’s environmental approach. The site implements sorting, recycling, and recovery solutions tailored to the diversity of its activities in order to limit its impact on the environment.

Over 20 waste streams sorted with the La Rochelle eco-network Biotop.
Biowaste recovery with Alter Gaïa.
Composting of 2 to 2.5 tonnes of green waste from the tropical greenhouse each year.
Ongoing reduction of single-use products.

More responsible purchasing

Because every purchase has an impact, the Aquarium La Rochelle favors suppliers, products, and service providers who share its environmental values and, wherever possible, promotes local supply chains.

49.5% of suppliers are located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Use of certified, eco-labeled paper.
Use of eco-labeled cleaning products.
Collaboration with service providers committed to recognized environmental initiatives.
Use of Imprim’Vert-certified printers for major communication materials.

An inclusive and community-minded company

Accessibility, inclusion, and environmental awareness are among the values of the Aquarium La Rochelle. The establishment works to make discovering the marine world accessible to as many people as possible, while guiding its teams toward more responsible practices and supporting community initiatives.

Tourisme & Handicap label for welcoming visitors with motor, hearing, and cognitive disabilities.
Staff awareness training on eco-friendly practices and the establishment’s environmental approach.
Promotion of soft mobility and cycling among employees.
Prevention of discrimination and promotion of respect for everyone.
Regular support for community associations and initiatives.
Participation in initiatives promoting access to culture, science, and environmental awareness for all.

A committed player in its local region

As a major player in the La Rochelle area, the Aquarium is involved in numerous cultural, scientific, and educational projects. Through its partnerships and participation in local events, it helps raise public awareness of issues related to the Ocean and marine biodiversity. The Aquarium uses its strong local roots as an essential lever for its mission of raising awareness and preserving the marine world.

Participation in the Fête de la Science every year.
Hosting the International Adventure Film and Book Festival (FIFAV).
Organization of educational activities for teachers and school groups.
Partnerships with local authorities, educational institutions, and local stakeholders.

A responsible company