The port of Saint-Tropez has just reached a significant milestone in its environmental commitment by obtaining the global ISO 18725 certification, “Clean Harbours Active in Biodiversity.” This distinction, which adds to the “Clean Harbours” certification obtained on December 15th, 2023, confirms the determination of the city and the port to become key players in the preservation of the environment and marine biodiversity.

What is the certification “Ports Propres Actifs en Biodiversité” Clean Harbours Active in Biodiversity ?

The Clean Harbour Active in Biodiversity certification has gained global recognition, strengthening its role in promoting environmental sustainability. This certification is awarded to ports that adopt exemplary practices to protect biodiversity while reducing their environmental impact. To obtain it, a port must meet strict criteria, including the implementation of sustainable management tools and concrete actions to support the local ecosystem.

CLEAN HARBOURS CERTIFICATON (MARCH 2024)

Click here to find out about the Clean Harbours certification.

Our actions

Since 2012, the city and the port have been striving each year to improve their services and expand eco-friendly initiatives.

Responsible Waste Management

Sorting and Collection: Several waste collection and sorting points have been set up, including “Point Propre” areas for toxic waste in the two renovated technical zones.

In 2024, following high demand from our boaters, two 60-liter drums were installed at the “Point Propre” area to collect used cooking oils, allowing for the recovery of approximately 150 liters of oil during the season.

“Tournée Pouet Pouet” Service: In 2024, a dockside waste collection service was launched. Harbor master’s office agents now collect waste bags directly from the stern of moored boats or at the reception dock for anchored vessels. This initiative has helped collect approximately 7.5 tons of waste, reducing illegal dumping and minimizing the risk of marine and land pollution.

“The Sea Starts Here (ici commence la mer)”: As part of the environmental policy initiated by Mayor Sylvie Siri in 2021, several drain baskets have been installed along the port’s quays. These devices trap waste before it reaches the drainage system and, ultimately, the sea, contributing to marine environmental protection. These systems are now implemented throughout the entire municipality.

anti-pollution free services

The port offers modern solutions for pumping wastewater and bilge water from boats, available year-round for boaters and free of charge for vessels moored in the port. This year, using its vacuum pump, the port has recovered the equivalent of seven Olympic swimming pools, totaling approximately 17,000 m³ of treated gray and black water.

Promotion of the biodiversity

Installation of around fifty Biohuts,  artificial habitats that promote the reproduction of juvenile fish.

Crédits photos : A. Fortin, A. Gudefin

REDUCTION OF WATER AND ENERGY CONSUMPTION

The port’s infrastructure has been optimized with water connections equipped with anti-leak systems. Users are regularly encouraged to reduce their consumption, with guidance and support from port agents.

Our goal reached !

In 2024, we set ourselves the ambitious goal of obtaining the global Clean Harbours Active in Biodiversity certification, just one year after achieving the Clean Harbours certification. Thanks to the commitment and continuous efforts of our team, we implemented concrete initiatives to reach this goal. Innovative actions were carried out across various areas, maximizing our impact on the public.

AWARENESS AND COMMITMENT

The port actively participates in several initiatives:

  • Je Navigue, Je Trie” (JNJT) Program: Raising awareness among boaters about waste sorting at sea.
  • Alliance Posidonia : A collective commitment to protecting Posidonia seagrass meadows, essential to the marine ecosystem.
  • SEA Index by the Superyacht Eco Association: Assessing and promoting eco-friendly superyachts with a ranking based on their CO₂ emissions.
  • Year-round reminders on social media about the services offered by the harbour master’s office for biodiversity protection and conservation.
  • Publication of the Port Magazine, featuring around twenty pages dedicated to ecology and best practices for port users.
  • Distribution of an environmental code of conduct specifically for port users, highlighting guidelines on waste management, marine ecosystem preservation, and adherence to noise and light pollution regulations.

 

distribution d’outils pratiques

Our clients receive in their Welcome Package bags for household waste, pocket ashtrays, and blotters, along with informative brochures on eco-friendly practices encouraging the return of waste to the dock and good practices at sea.

technology and innovations

The Port of Saint-Tropez is firmly committed to ecological transition through the adoption of green technologies. Driven by a vision of innovation and progress, the port has collaborated over the years with various companies to integrate cutting-edge solutions, such as Aqua stations, the DPOL, and the Jellyfishbot. These initiatives have not only enabled the adoption of sustainable technologies but also promoted them as solutions for the future. This year, we took a new step by collaborating with One Concept Marine for the installation and testing of the Meltem Dock, a first of its kind. This dock is equipped with:

  • Solar panels for clean energy.
  • Water recovery systems for sustainable resource management.
  • Infrastructure promoting marine biodiversity.

In 2024, a study on the CO2 emissions of service vessels was launched in partnership with Oria Marine, which develops connected devices to collect data on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. A real-time monitoring system was installed on three service vessels, enabling the port to better understand and reduce the emissions generated by its operations. Thanks to this application, the operation of the equipped vessels has improved, as evidenced by the increase in their eco-score since its implementation.

RAISING AWARENESS THROUGH ART

We have regularly shared messages about good environmental practices. Now, while continuing these efforts, we have chosen to explore a visual approach. The goal is to allow the public to discover, understand, and better appreciate the local wildlife and flora. By awakening their curiosity, we hope to inspire them to feel the need and desire to protect them.

  • Exhibition of eco-sculptures by artist Martin Heinisch representing marine life.
  • Photographs by Damien Mandin: Photos accompanied by explanatory texts to educate visitors about local biodiversity.
  • Social media campaigns: Videos showcasing the wildlife and flora discovered in the port

Sculptures by Martin Heinisch

Photos by Damien Mandin

TEAM TRAINING

In 2024, some team members were able to participate in the training “Clean Harbours Active in Biodiversity,” with the goal of training all staff members by 2025. We regularly organize anti-pollution drills to prepare ourselves to respond quickly and effectively in the event of an incident. Anti-pollution procedures are regularly updated to ensure compliance with current standards and best practices. All our staff are rigorously trained, ensuring enhanced safety and better management of emergency situations.

A FUTURE FOCUSED ON SUSTAINABILITY

This certification is a crucial step, but the city and the Port of Saint-Tropez do not plan to stop there. In 2025 and beyond, events and initiatives will continue to be organized by the city and its port to raise awareness among boaters, residents, and visitors about the need to preserve the sea and its environment.

The port, yes, but what about the rest?

On the land side: goal of green spaces and sustainable mobility

To promote local biodiversity, a new pesticide-free promenade, made up of Mediterranean plants, was developed in the port in 2023.

In 2025, through targeted actions, we aim to strengthen local biodiversity and encourage eco-friendly behaviors among the public.

Les partenaires