In Porquerolles, a partnership for responsible tourism
Six permanent dry toilets are installed on the beaches of Porquerolles for a more responsible reception of visitors.
Since July 21, six dry toilets have been operational on the back-beaches of La Courtade and Notre-Dame, on the island of Porquerolles.
This initiative is the result of a partnership between the Métropole Toulon Provence Méditerranée, the Ville d’Hyères, and the Parc national de Port-Cros, united by the ambition to reconcile a quality welcome for visitors and the preservation of this unique natural heritage.
“To welcome better without denaturing. This is the commitment we are making for Porquerolles. This equipment improves the service provided to visitors while respecting an exceptional natural site. It is this alliance between quality of life, environmental protection, and concrete action that we want to bring to our territory,” declared Véronique Bernardini, mayor of Hyères and president of the Parc national de Port-Cros.
A double challenge: welcoming the public and preservation
Every summer, thousands of tourists visit the island's beaches, making the presence of sanitary facilities essential. The temporary chemical toilets, used until now, no longer met the environmental requirements of a classified site in the heart of a national park.
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The installation of these structures responds to a double challenge: improving the welcoming conditions for the public and preserving a fragile environment.
Strategically distributed, with four cabins on La Courtade beach and two on Notre-Dame, these installations will remain in place all year round to adapt to the island's visitor numbers in all seasons.
Ecological technology and circular economy
Designed by the company Lovely Toilettes, these cabins combine aesthetics, comfort, and environmental performance. Their waterless operation saves between three and six litres with each use, a precious resource on an island.
The technology is based on a system of separating liquid and solid waste, which facilitates their treatment and future recovery within a circular economy approach, and this, without the use of wood chips.
Daily cleaning and maintenance are provided by Phare, a company established in Porquerolles, guaranteeing a reactive local service and optimal operating quality throughout the year.
This achievement demonstrates the willingness of public actors to promote more sustainable tourism. By combining quality of services, protection of natural areas, and responsible development, the Métropole, the Ville d’Hyères, and the Parc national de Port-Cros are strengthening the attractiveness of Porquerolles while preserving its identity for future generations.
Photos Ville de Hyères.