The future of congresses – building a sustainable legacy in Helsinki

The future of congresses – building a sustainable legacy in Helsinki

Helsinki is transforming the way congresses are organised, setting new standards for sustainability and legacy-building. The Helsinki Event Legacy Program is designed to help you develop a tailored plan that not only enriches attendees’ experiences but also leaves a meaningful mark on the city. Whether it’s through sustainable practices, community involvement, or innovative ideas, we aim to make every event a stepping stone toward a better, greener future.

Helsinki’s congress legacy focuses on five key areas: education, environment, equality, wellbeing, and innovation. This comprehensive approach shows that congresses can be more than just meetings—they can be catalysts for change. Let’s explore how Helsinki’s commitment to these pillars is redefining how to organise a sustainable event.

Empowering the next generation through education

Education is at the heart of Helsinki’s congress legacy. The city embraces “learning by doing,” inviting event professionals to share their expertise with students in unique and practical ways. The Helsinki Event Legacy Program encourages congress organisers to involve local students through public lectures, interactive workshops, and open days. This hands-on approach bridges the gap between academia and industry, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

One notable example is the partnership with the LIVE Foundation, which supports students with special education needs. These students guided congress participants at Helsinki Airport, Pasila train station, and at congress venues, gaining valuable work experience while helping congress organisers at no additional cost. This initiative demonstrates the tangible benefits of the Event Legacy Program and underscores Helsinki’s commitment to empowering the next generation.

Environmental stewardship

Helsinki takes environmental sustainability seriously, with a focus on preserving its natural beauty for future generations. Congress participants are encouraged to engage in urban preservation through volunteer work, cleaning campaigns, and removing invasive plant species. The city also donates leftover congress materials to workshops like Uusix, promoting a circular economy.

Helsinki collaborates with the Baltic Sea Action Group to protect and restore the Baltic Sea, demonstrating its broader commitment to environmental stewardship. Helsinki Partners helps congress organisers connect with those who share a passion for sustainability, facilitating partnerships and collaborations that contribute to a more sustainable city.

Promoting Equality and Inclusion

Helsinki is a city that champions equality, well-being, and participation. The city’s approach to equality includes providing work opportunities for students with special needs and supporting humanitarian efforts through collaborations with the Finnish Red Cross. A recent example is Muistiliitto’s online training, designed to support people with dementia in customer service. This training was shared with staff at various hotels and service providers in Helsinki, reflecting the city’s commitment to inclusion and respect.

Through these initiatives, Helsinki fosters a community where everyone can participate on an equal footing, reinforcing the city’s vision of a diverse and inclusive environment.

Fostering Wellbeing

Helsinki has been named the world’s best city for establishing a healthy life-work balance (in that order). This balance is part of Helsinki’s identity, and it’s reflected in the congress legacy.

Charity fun runs and walking events during congresses encourage physical activity and raise funds for charitable causes. The city’s congress legacy toolkit contains ready-to-use ideas designed to create a positive impact in the short to medium term, helping congress organizers integrate health and sustainability into their events.

[DOWNLOAD THE TOOLKIT]

Crafting a Forward-Thinking Ecosystem

According to the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2023, Finland ranks as the 6th most innovative country. The index’s 80 indicators explore a broad vision of innovation, from infrastructure to political environment, highlighting Finland’s commitment to forward-thinking practices.

Innovation is a key pillar of Helsinki’s congress legacy. The city collaborates with the Helsinki Education Hub to create an environment where education startups and innovative learning can thrive. Corporate decision-makers and investors are engaged through personalised fact-finding tours and round-table dinners, showcasing Helsinki’s business ecosystem and attracting investment to support sustainable growth.

Helsinki’s approach to innovation doesn’t stop at education and business. The city’s congress legacy toolkit is filled with resources that encourage creativity and new ideas, promoting sustainable practices that have a lasting impact. If you’re interested in learning more about creating a sustainable impact with your event, Helsinki Partners is here to assist. They can help you navigate the city’s innovative landscape and connect you with the right resources to turn your ideas into reality.

Our Promise – Tailored Services at No Cost to You

Helsinki’s commitment to sustainability, education, equality, wellbeing, and innovation is currently recognised by the Global Destination Sustainability Index. But Helsinki proves that legacy isn’t just about recognition —it’s about building a better future for everyone.

The Helsinki Convention Bureau offers personalised services to ensure your congress is a success. Our team is here to explain why Helsinki is the perfect location for your event and how we support you throughout the process, from planning to execution. We look forward to helping you create an event that leaves a positive, lasting impact.