Sustainability

Amsterdam is the first city in the world to adopt the doughnut economic model, which means basic needs are met for a good standard of living, while respecting the limits of the planet. The City of Amsterdam is aiming to become a completely emission-free city by 2030 with the goal of becoming fully circular by 2050. The city topped the Schroders European Sustainable Cities Index 2021, which found Amsterdam’s environmental policies are the best in Europe, and in the same year Time Out ranked the city the second-best in the world thanks to its green credentials.

Sustainability runs through all sectors, from finance to farming. Even the fashion industry is setting trends. Amsterdam is home to the world’s first museum and startup accelerator dedicated to sustainable fashion, Fashion for Good. And the construction sector is changing old habits too, by making sure new builds meet the highest standards of energy and resource efficiency. Many venues, including hotels, are powered by green energy, have protocols to reduce waste during events, catering options that reduce food miles and other green alternatives.

What makes Amsterdam a great place for sustainable events

• World’s number one for green finance
• First city to adopt the doughnut economic model to limit climate impact
• Countless options for sustainable event spaces, social activities and low-waste dining
• A European leader in climate positive environmental policies
• An ideal location easily accessible by train

Examples of sustainable events in Amsterdam

Sustainability is a hot topic across many sectors, and conferences in Amsterdam, whether financial, medical or technological, will touch on the subject.

Hosted in Amsterdam, the annual Kingpins Show brings together global leaders and innovators in the denim industry to share ideas and best practices, particularly in making the industry more sustainable. 

Amsterdam also hosts The Impact Days, three days each year when the Netherlands discovers, celebrates, and supports impact entrepreneurs. The aim of this yearly nationwide campaign is to get consumers and organisations to make responsible and conscious purchases.