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Whether in Lausanne for leisure or business tourism, visitors particularly appreciate the cleanliness, respect for nature, diligent upkeep of green spaces, as well as the energy-saving and anti-nuisance policies put in place by the city.
To further improve the quality of life of its residents, Lausanne has made sustainable development one of the spearheads of its policy for many years.
Soft and responsible mobility
Proud holder of the Swiss “Cité de l’énergie” label, Lausanne offers the opportunity to explore the region using a variety of environmentally friendly means of transport. As well as walking tours – individual or guided – encouraged by the city’s many pedestrian zones, self-service bicycles are available for hire. In addition, the M2 – the only automatic metro in Switzerland – and electric and natural gas buses are available for easy travel around the city and its region.
What’s more, tourists staying in an establishment that pays the tourist tax receive a Lausanne Transport Card & More (LTC), which allows them to use public transport in the urban area (bus, train, metro) freely for the duration of their stay (max. 15 days).
Waste management
Taxed bin bags, a collection calendar, awareness campaigns… In terms of recycling and waste management, the City of Lausanne has put in place a number of initiatives to help the population of Lausanne sort and recycle more effectively.
Eco-responsible projects
In addition, Lausanne can count on a number of major eco-responsible initiatives, such as Net’Léman – the largest lake clean-up in Europe. Every two years – for over 10 years now – this major clean-up of the lake’s shores and bed has been organised, enabling some 130,000 kilos of waste to be recovered.
Enhanced “terroir”
And what about the wealth of regional products? Local specialities, local produce and Vaud wines are “certified from here”, while more and more restaurants and accommodation are promoting the “Swissstainable” green label.
The “Swisstainable” programme
Set up by Switzerland Tourism, this virtuous programme promotes the sustainable development of Switzerland as a tourist destination. Thanks to the “Swisstainable” label, travellers who are committed to or aware of eco-tourism can identifiy more responsible places and holiday offers. From accommodation and restaurants to soft mobility, certified establishments are assessed and required to meet various quality criteria in terms of sustainability. Three levels are to be attained for a comprehensive commitment.
Ecotourism
In recent years, green (or soft) tourism has grown significantly, with visits to the town’s wine estates, ecotourism bed and breakfasts, inns serving local produce, pedestrian, cycling and horse-riding trails, as well as sporting activities that combine nature and exercise.
“Let’s create a solid, supportive and regenerative tourism economy.”
Since 2021, the LMCare 2025 programme – supported by Lausanne Montreux Congrès – has been working to promote the sustainability of the destination, the local tourism industry, its staff, visitors and civil society through a 5-year commitment.
Discover the Lausanners