As members of the EU CVB Network, we are committed to leading the charge towards a sustainable future. Our network includes convention bureaux from Florence, Gothenburg, Ljubljana, Lyon, Rotterdam, Salzburg, València and Porto. We have come together with a shared vision: to leverage our collective strengths and champion sustainability within the events industry.
Success Stories Across Our Network
Sustainability is no longer just a trend; it is a fundamental necessity. Each of our cities brings unique strengths to the table, making us collectively powerful in driving sustainable initiatives. Our network boasts numerous success stories that showcase our commitment to sustainability:
- Gothenburg: Early and bold commitments by local suppliers to prioritize sustainability have positioned Gothenburg as a leader in sustainable tourism, leading to the #1 position in the GDS Index and the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism 2020. In Gothenburg 95% of all hotels are environmentally certified, with the possibility to certify meetings and various CSR activities available.
- Ljubljana: Known for its compact and walkable city center, Ljubljana was awarded the prestigious title of European Green Capital 2016 as a result of the city’s achievements regarding smart, sustainable and inclusive development. It is also included in The Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism (GSST). A national certification program under the SLOVENIA GREEN brand, that supports sustainable tourism development.
- Lyon: Pioneering bike-sharing systems since 2005, Lyon continues to promote responsible tourism through local partnerships and innovative sustainability strategies. The Lyon Tourism Office and the Lyon Convention Centre are ISO 20121 Certified, 2nd French city in the GDS-Index and 13th worldwide in 2023, and has a neutral carbon emission’s airport.
- Florence: Florence represents the engine of the circular economy in Tuscany. Due to a sustainable revolution with a series of green initiatives, a sustainable urban mobility as well as some important actions carried on by the Firenze Fiera Congress & Exhibition Centre such as recovery and reuse of equipment materials, sustainable catering and a website accessible to people with disabilities, just to name a few.
- Rotterdam: Rotterdam has secured the 2nd spot globally in the Sustainable Cities Index 2024 by Arcadis. The city collaborates with the Port of Rotterdam and other partners to enhance its sustainability. It participates in initiatives like the Clinton Climate Initiative, C40, 100 Resilient Cities, and Connecting Delta Cities, and hosts the UN Global Center of Excellence on Climate Adaptation since 2018. Rotterdam’s sustainability efforts are also evident in its venues with blue-green rooftops and solar power.
- Salzburg: With the highest density of organic farms in Europe, Salzburg offers a rich variety of sustainable catering options for events. It has green meeting certificate (location & event), e-mobility in local transportation.
- València: As the first city globally to certify and verify the carbon footprint of its tourism activities, València sets a high standard for environmental accountability. As the European Green Capital for 2024, Valencia is not just a city; it’s a forward-thinking community that redefines urban living with sustainable avant-garde spaces.
- Porto: Member of GSTC, GDS Index and launche, the Sustainability Movement, focusing on environmental, social, cultural, and economic sustainability. Where 70% of electricity consumption comes from renewable energies.
EU CVB Network’s Vision for a Sustainable Future in Events
The demand for sustainable events is increasing, and we, as convention bureaux, have a responsibility to be proactive. We challenge, inspire, and influence planners to contribute to a more sustainable future.
As the EU CVB Network, we are proud to join forces for a sustainable future. Our collaborative efforts and commitment to sustainability ensure that we remain at the forefront of the events industry, providing valuable, eco-friendly solutions for associations worldwide. By working together, we can create a lasting positive impact on our environment and our communities.
