Together on the road to sustainable travel to events

In a time where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, it is essential that we all take our responsibility. We previously discussed our sustainable answer to waste processing and how we stimulate people-powered sustainability. But there is another aspect that must not be overlooked: travel.

At Theater Amsterdam, we understand the importance of sustainable travel to and from events. We therefore want to actively participate in the solution and the route towards it. That is why we love to think along about how we can best set up your event and everything around it, so that sustainable travel is brought to the attention of the visitors and they can make a green choice in this.

To start the conversation about sustainable travel, we are happy to share some tips and examples. With these, we hope to inspire you and help you on your way towards a sustainable event.

1. Promote public transport

Public transport is one of the most efficient ways to transport large groups of people with a minimal impact on the environment. By partnering with local transport companies for discounts and by providing clear public transport information, you can encourage visitors to leave the car at home.

Example: At a recent music festival, visitors received a discount on their train ticket when they showed their festival pass.

2. Incentives for green travelers

Reward visitors who choose greener transport options. This can range from early access to the event, special seating, or discounts on merchandise.

Example: At a conference, attendees who arrived by bicycle or public transport received a special 'green' badge and access to an exclusive lounge.

3. Carpool options

Carpooling not only reduces vehicle emissions but also helps reduce traffic congestion. By offering a platform where visitors can share rides, you can encourage ride sharing.

Example: During a major sporting event, a special app was launched where fans could share rides. But there are already a lot of existing apps that you can use for this, such as BlaBlaCar.

4. Bicycle facilities

Cycling is one of the most sustainable means of transport. By offering bicycle parking spaces and safe routes, you can encourage visitors to come by bike. In addition, you can stimulate visitors with various incentives.

Example: At an art festival, extra bicycle parking facilities were set up and visitors who came by bike received a free drink.

5. Electric shuttles

Electric vehicles are the future of transport. Consider offering shuttles from train and bus stations to make traveling to your event as green as possible.

Example: A business conference offered electric shuttle buses from the train station to the event venue.

6. Information on local accommodations

By collaborating with local hotels and agreeing on special rates, visitors can be encouraged to stay locally during multi-day events, in order to stimulate fewer travel movements.

Example: For an international film festival, collaborations were established with local eco-hotels, giving visitors discounts.

7. Charging stations for electric vehicles

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular. By providing sufficient charging infrastructure and informing visitors about the locations of charging stations, you can further stimulate sustainable travel.

Example: At a tech expo, extra charging stations were installed and drivers of electric vehicles received priority parking.

8. Let visitors pay for parking themselves

Many organizations pay the parking costs for their visitors to make it easy for invitees to attend. By not reimbursing parking costs from the organization, you motivate the visitor to make their own choice on how to travel to the event. In addition, the organization can offer discounted public transport as an extra incentive.

We are always open to new ways of promoting sustainability and invite you to work with us and share ideas. Only by working together can we bring about real change and create a more sustainable future for us all.

Organizing a business event?

At Theater Amsterdam, we are committed to sustainability in all aspects of our events. Are you inspired by our sustainable approach and do you want to discover more about the possibilities at Theater Amsterdam? Download our brochure here or contact us without obligation.