Stockholm has placed sustainability at the core of its development with projects like The Stockholm Biochar Project implemented in 2017 to manage the increasing amount of waste generated in urban spaces. In fact, business travellers have become increasingly intrigued by the Swedish capital because there is a growing emphasis on sustainability in the corporate sphere. Read on to discover how sustainable Stockholm is one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the world and what role it plays in the corporate travel industry…
Transport & Urban Planning
Stockholm is engaged in sustainable living which is why it has developed an efficient and environmentally friendly public transport system. Carbon emissions and traffic congestion are reduced by the good public transport network of buses, trams, and the Stockholm Metro which run frequently throughout the city because people rely less on private transport. Many of the city’s taxis are electric or hybrid vehicles and are one of the main forms of sustainable travel in the Stockholm public transport system. It has even become popular for commuters, tourists, and business travellers to use boats or ferries to get around, some of which only use electricity and hydrogen power making them emission free. E-scooters, renting a bike, the Stockholm Metro which is powered 100% by clean energy, and the electric commuter ferry M/S Movitz are all forms of green travel.
Furthermore, the city has constructed a cycle system that is used by many citizens and has created Stockholm’s thriving biking culture. Moving forward, Stockholm are continuing to prioritise green travel, lowering their emission rates, and improving their air quality standards. By 2030, the city is hoping that all maritime traffic is fossil-fuel free, and to use 100% renewable energy/zero net emissions by 2045.
Stockholm is also trying to further build on their existing sustainable infrastructure and eco-friendly design. The city over recent years has focused its attention on energy-efficient buildings, mixed land use, pedestrian friendly areas, and the creation of green spaces.
Many buildings in Stockholm are designed to maximise natural light and ventilation which decreases the need for artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation systems. To show commitment to sustainability in Stockholm, buildings can be LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) when they are committed to green building living standards. For example, some buildings have built-in green modes where unnecessary power consumption appliances are switched off at night and weekends.
Renewable Energy & Public Awareness
The Swedish capital has invested heavily in renewable energy sources such as wind, bioenergy, solar, and hydropower. Sustainability in Stockholm is partly driven by the Scandinavian weather, Nordic winds, and surrounding bodies of water which are capitalised on to generate large amounts of electricity.
Additionally, green travel options, smart buildings, and the eco-friendly public transportation system all support the use of renewable energy and minimise reliance on fossil fuels. Stockholm also prioritises the use of sustainable locally sourced materials which decreases transportation-related emissions. Sweden intends to be a fossil-fuel free nation by 2050 and Stockholm is at the focal point of this evolving roadmap.
Public engagement and awareness around sustainable living is high in Stockholm as Swedish values and sustainability are closely linked. Awareness programmes about the environment and sustainability are often integrated into school curriculums so that, from a young age, children are aware of being environmentally friendly.
There are significant amounts of Swedish television programmes, news channels, online platforms, and media outlets that talk about sustainability and environmental issues. The Swedish economy is strong and the standard of living in Stockholm high, which is also why citizens are more inclined to partake in eco-friendly practices because they see the benefits for themselves and their city.
Green Living & Waste
Lucious parks are dotted all around Stockholm helping to improve air quality by filtering pollutants and in turn helping Stockholm maintain their low carbon emissions. Green rooves are often seen on many houses in the city which also provide insulation and reduces stormwater runoff.
The city also has a well-oiled waste management system that encourages widespread recycling and composting. The waste-to-energy scheme provides facilities that reduce landfill waste whilst generating electricity and heat. Green living has become a way of life in Stockholm as a variety of innovative policies and schemes like this one all promote sustainability in various aspects of urban life.
Sustainability in the Corporate World
Stockholm’s sustainable city credentials may appeal to business travellers because there is an increasing focus on sustainability in the corporate world. Many companies aim to reduce their carbon footprint and use more responsible business practises, especially when it comes to business travel. Governments continually expand and introduce corporate sustainable development goals which naturally push companies to adopt sustainability programmes. As well as valuable business opportunities, companies can gain a competitive advantage in their market when they value sustainability because of consumer preferences, long term viability, and brand image. Companies that utilise sustainability can gain long-term growth, reduce costs and improve their environmental impact.
Stockholm has taken significant actionable steps to improve its environmental practises over the years which has helped to recognise it one of the most sustainable cities in the world. Sustainable Stockholm is a destination that makes for a productive, enjoyable, healthy, and enhanced business trip.
There are many events based around environmental issues and sustainable living in Stockholm, for example the ICGN Stockholm Conference that happened in March 2023, that make the Swedish capital a networking hub. The Growth + Profitability Summit Stockholm in October at the IVA Konferenscenter and the International Conference on Smart Cities and Buildings in July, are two great upcoming sustainability focused events in Stockholm. 81% of global consumer's believe that companies should have programmes integrated to improve the environment.
From the eco-friendly public transport system and vast green spaces to Stockholm’s widespread use of renewable energy sources, the Swedish capital is committed to sustainable living. The chance to network, standards of living, and growing importance of sustainability in the corporate world also make it a great place for a business trip. To learn more about this city check our 24 hour serviced apartment roundup in Stockholm blog and look at how to travel more sustainably when on business trips.
