In June I had the pleasure of visiting Rotterdam, a city renowned for its port (the largest in Europe), modern architecture and being a casualty of World War Two. But there is something else missing from this list. And no, it’s not Stroopwafles, bikes or windmills so guess again … it’s sustainability! And what’s more, it was crowned the second most sustainable city in the world by Arcadis in 2024.  

I know when I think of a city, I envision grey skies, high rise buildings and a whole lot of congestion. But this is just not the case in Rotterdam – and that is cause for celebration. The city is still swarming with transport links and urban infrastructure but, what really sets this city apart from the rest is its creativity and dedication to the cause. By using resources to their advantage and working in harmony with the urban infrastructure they can implement initiatives to guarantee long-term sustainable growth.  

Their port is a key piece to the puzzle, used by a wide range of sectors to adapt and become more climate friendly. Ranging from accessible, low-carbon public transport via boat to ‘climate-adaptive architecture’ – such as floating houses and offices to accommodate for the growing population – as well as floating farms that support local produce and circular farming.   

Walking around the city, it become clear that sustainability is a way of life, accepted by all with open arms. It didn’t feel forced or shoved down your throat, it just slotted in neatly amongst the noise of everyday life. From gentle recycling reminders on the tram, plastic tax on water bottles in supermarkets and biodegradable food packaging where every part – including the clear plastic window – is recyclable. Blink and you really would miss it.  

Here are a few other highlights –  

• A lot of the tourist attractions are sustainable with many running off green energy and use local produce in their cafes like the Euromast. What I found most interesting was that Depot Boijmans Van Beuninge at Museumpark displays collections based on their climatological needs rather than artistic movement.  

• My hotel had signs encouraging guests to be mindful of their environmental impact throughout their stay. The bathrooms highlighted the impact of unnecessary towel washing, reminding guests that detergent pollutes the water supply.  

• Bikes are everywhere! It seems like cycling is the preferred mode of transport for many. I noticed that even courier services used electric bikes to deliver packages rather than the vans we see in England. 

• De Groene Passage is a shopping district devoted to sustainability and the ethical practices and treatment of workers. You can buy anything and everything from clothes, homeware, makeup and your weekly food shop. I picked up their summer leaflet which showcased the work of non-profit organisations which ensure money from their sales goes straight back to the farmers and their communities. It also encouraged residents to eat locally and seasonally produced crops to minimise impact farming has on the environment.   

I have found that there is often this assumption that to live a more sustainable life means making huge sacrifices and having to go without the things we love. But I can tell you this is not the case, its rather the opposite. Rotterdam is an example of a city who has fully embraced sustainability and is now reaping the rewards. Its success is no fluke and stems from one very important thing – community!  

Rotterdam has purposefully built a community of people with shared values, who genuinely believe in the cause, engage with sustainability efforts, and willingly adapt to new initiatives as they emerge. This culture of care and commitment runs deep throughout the city, inspiring not only individuals but influencing businesses to rethink how they operate and embrace circular principles and more ethical practices. 

The greening of urban spaces not only reduces air pollution, rainwater overflow and heat stress but also has an enduring positive influence on mental health as studies reveal that those living in greener urban areas displayed tend to feel less depressed and anxious.  

Eating locally causes less environmental impact and reduces carbon footprint as the produce doesn’t need to be transported as far. Eating seasonally results in far tastier and nutrient-dense fruit and veg as it takes away the need for artificial ripening. 

It’s a ‘win-win’ situation for the environment and us! So why would we ever be against it?  

Whilst many are quick to criticise the effectiveness and longevity of environmental action, they so easily forget the benefits it brings. We must change our mindset and look at sustainability in a different way, just like Rotterdam has. I think we could all learn a thing or two from the city!