Sustainable venues and hotels in Rotterdam set high sustainability standards for the events industry. This is how they do it.
Sustainability in action: Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre
Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre, at the heart of Rotterdam’s event infrastructure, combines sustainability with practical benefits for event organizers.
During my visit to cover Urban Future 2024, I experienced firsthand how The Rotterdam Hall, Ports, and Docks spaces welcomed about 2,500 attendees for the international conference.
I was impressed by The Rotterdam Hall’s natural daylight, which enhances attendee wellbeing while reducing energy use.
Throughout the venue, sustainable features serve multiple purposes: the moss sedum roof (1,713 m²) provides natural insulation, solar panels supply 25% of electricity needs, and a water reservoir system reuses rainwater. The entire facility operates gas-free.
RDM Submarine Wharf (Rotterdam Ahoy venue)
Rotterdam Ahoy event capacity extends to Rotterdam harbor where it manages the RDM Submarine Wharf. This 4,280 m² space for up to 5,000 visitors in Rotterdam’s harbor was a former submarine factory turned into a unique event venue that honors its industrial past while meeting modern event needs.
Where to Stay: Sustainable hotels in Rotterdam
Rotterdam’s hotel sector, expanding to over 11,000 rooms by 2027, mirrors the city’s commitment to sustainable innovation. Three standout properties demonstrate different approaches to sustainable hospitality:
ibis Styles Rotterdam Ahoy
Next to Rotterdam Ahoy, this 250-room hotel showcases smart urban planning in action. Its strategic location eliminates the need for transportation to the convention center, and direct proximity to Zuiderpark provides guests with immediate access to green spaces for recreation.
Room Mate Bruno Hotel
Located in the trendy Wilhelminapier, the hotel is housed in a former tea warehouse, this 217-room hotel demonstrates the power of adaptive reuse. The building’s transformation maintains its historical character while incorporating modern hotel infrastructure.
Motel One Rotterdam
Located in the vibrant Blaak neighborhood, Motel One Rotterdam has 180 rooms and its emphasis on local products and design makes sustainability part of every guest’s experience.
Making sustainable events happen
Rotterdam’s venues and hotels are supported with city’s infrastructure to supports sustainable events through:
- Excellent public transportation connections
- Walkable city center that reduces transit needs
- Green spaces
- Focus on local sourcing
- Commitment to continuous innovation in sustainable practices
Conclusions
For event planners seeking to host impactful, sustainable events, Rotterdam provides a complete ecosystem with local expertise and infrastructure.
Rotterdam Partners offers complimentary support by connecting event organizers to the right venues and service partners and providing relevant city information. Their team helps create awareness of Rotterdam as a potential host city and lays the groundwork for successful bids and congresses.
When you choose Rotterdam for your event, you’re joining a city that’s actively shaping the future of sustainable events. Here, your sustainability goals become reality through venues and hotels that are designed to make sustainability a seamless part of every successful event.
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