Our Commitment to Sustainability
As one of Europe’s leading congress and event venues, we take our responsibility seriously – toward our guests, our partners, and the City of Vienna. We recognize that events consume energy, water, and resources. That’s why we continuously work to improve our environmental performance and embed sustainable business practices across all areas. Our organization is committed to meeting all environmental regulations and going beyond them – we set ourselves even higher standards.
“Our goal is to minimize our environmental impact through responsible and forward‑thinking measures.”
Susanne Zehntner
Head of Sustainability
Officially Certified with the Austrian Eco‑Label
- Since 2016, we have been a license holder of the Austrian Eco‑Label for Green Meetings & Green Events (UZ62), which entitles us to certify events as sustainable.
- In 2024, we have additionally been awarded the Austrian Eco‑Label for Conference & Event Venues (UZ200).
These government‑audited certifications confirm our commitment to environmentally responsible management, social responsibility, and the highest standards in event organization.
“Vienna is more than a stage for international events – we see ourselves as active contributors to a sustainable meeting culture. Together with our local partners, we support organizers in designing congresses and conferences that drive scientific progress, strengthen social responsibility, and set new ecological standards. This creates lasting value – for the economy, the environment, and the people of our city.”
Anita Paic
Director B2B Management & Vienna Convention Bureau
Sustainability as a Lived Standard
For us, sustainability is not a project with an end date, but an ongoing process. That’s why we integrate environmentally friendly practices into our daily operations and set ambitious goals that we pursue consistently.
Our Action Program Through 2028
- Systematic advancement of sustainability management across all business areas
- Establishment of an internal environmental team
- Transition to 100% green electricity
- Full conversion to LED lighting throughout the venue
- Installation of a PV system with approx. 2,000 kWp
- Energy monitoring through the implementation of an energy management system
- Recertification with the Austrian Eco‑Label
- Strong focus on Green Meetings & Events (UZ62)
- Evaluation and expansion of accessibility
- Optimization of waste and recycling rates
- Sustainable procurement and use of resource‑efficient products
- Complete transition to reusable beverage containers
- Event Sustainability Reports for every event
- Communication of Vienna’s high‑quality drinking water to international guests
Our CO₂ Targets
We have set ambitious goals to continuously improve our carbon footprint over the long term.
until 2028
Short Term
Reduction of 300 tons of CO₂ per year through 100% green hydropower and LED technology
until 2030
Mid Term
Halving operational CO₂ emissions through the transition to an electric fleet and the implementation of a digital energy management system
until 2045
Long Term
Achieving net‑zero emissions by increasing the recycling rate, expanding the PV system, continuously improving and optimizing consumption, and enhancing HVAC system efficiency
Current Initiatives at VIECON
Sustainability in Action
For us, sustainability means not only defining ambitious goals, but also creating tangible change today. That’s why we implement a range of concrete initiatives that make ecological responsibility visible and directly accessible to our guests, partners, and employees. From the beehive on the rooftop to the photovoltaic system on Hall A – each project is a building block on our path toward a climate‑friendly future.
Our Initiatives at a Glance
Biodiversity
Five new beehives on the roof of the Congress Center produce regional honey and support biodiversity in the Vienna Prater. The “BEECON” project makes sustainability tangible – and even tasteable – for our guests.
Photovoltaics with Power
Starting in 2026, a photovoltaic system with a capacity of around 2,500 kWp will be installed on Hall A – enough to cover the annual electricity consumption of approximately 876 households. This marks a strong statement for renewable energy in the event industry.
Greener Forecourt
More nature, less heat: The greening of our forecourt creates shade, improves the microclimate, and enhances the experience for visitors and local residents.
Expansion of E‑Charging Infrastructure
To support climate‑friendly mobility, we are continuously expanding the charging points for electric vehicles across the venue.
Everyday Energy Efficiency
From LED technology and energy‑efficient printing systems to green electricity – we continuously optimize our operational processes to conserve resources and reduce emissions
More Recycling, Less Waste
Improved waste management and clear collection systems help us increase recycling rates and significantly reduce residual waste.
Welcome at Beecon
Since Earth Day 2025, VIECON has hosted five beehives on its rooftop. The colonies collect nectar in the Vienna Prater and produce our own BEECON honey. With this project, VIECON promotes biodiversity and makes sustainability directly tangible on site. Together with master beekeeper Thomas Zelenka, we ensure the best possible conditions for the bees.
Waste Management and Circular Thinking
A responsible approach to resources is a core element of our sustainability strategy:
- Comprehensive waste‑management concept with monitoring of waste volumes and recycling rates
- Separate collection systems in office and event areas
- FSC‑certified paper and ecological print materials
- No plastic give‑aways
- Multi‑compartment collectors in all areas
- Cooperation with local partners (e.g., MA48) for disposal and recycling
- Ongoing optimization to reduce overall waste volumes
- “Managed Printing System” – increases efficiency, reduces costs and paper consumption, and enhances security
“Sustainability is not an add‑on, but part of every decision. When we design events responsibly, we create experiences that truly matter – for people and for the environment.”
Silvia Hiller
Technical Administration Manager
Energy, Water and Mobility
- Energy supply with 100% green hydropower and energy‑efficient event technology
- Heating with district heating and the use of an energy‑management system
- Use of well water for toilet flushing and water‑saving technology across all facilities
- Promotion of climate‑friendly arrival and departure: direct U2 connection, bicycle parking, WienMobil station
- Communication of Vienna’s excellent drinking‑water quality to our international guests
Accessibility at VIECON
Taking responsibility also means ensuring access for everyone. VIECON is fully accessible:
- Ground‑level entrances, wide doors, and elevators in all areas
- Wheelchair access to all meeting rooms
- Accessible restrooms on every floor (Euro‑key system)
- Tactile guidance systems in the foyers and Braille signage in elevators
- Accessible parking spaces directly at the entrances
- Assistance and guide dogs are welcome
Head of Sustainability at VIECON
Susanne Zehntner
Head of Sustainability
T: +43 1 72720 2301
susanne.zehntner@vieconcenter.at
Your contact person for:
