Rotterdam’s Summer of Urban Resilience
This summer, Rotterdam is a vibrant hub for international dialogue and innovation as it welcomes four major conferences and business events focused on sustainability, urban planning and resilience, and climate change adaptation.
European Urban Resilience Forum
Rounding out this inspiring month, the European Urban Resilience Forum (EURESFO) was held at LantarenVenster from 25–27 June. Organised by ICLEI Europe, this forum brought together municipal leaders, researchers and practitioners to accelerate climate action, energy transition and urban equity across Europe. With a longstanding reputation as a living laboratory for sustainable urban development, Rotterdam offers fertile ground for collaborative problem-solving and future-oriented thinking.
Seagriculture EU 2025
From 17–19 June, De Doelen International Conference Centre hosted Seagriculture EU 2025, a specialised conference on seaweed farming and blue economy innovation. With the North Sea nearby and strong local expertise in maritime industries, Rotterdam is a fitting event destination. Attendees explored seaweed’s role in sustainable food systems, packaging alternatives and biofuels, topics that resonate strongly in this internationally connected port city.
Swimmable Cities
Next, from 22–24 June, Swimmable Cities will take place at LantarenVenster, a unique event venue on the city's dynamic waterfront. This forward-looking event investigates how water can be reintegrated into urban life not only as infrastructure, but as public space for recreation, biodiversity and climate resilience. It’s a concept already visible in Rotterdam’s water squares and floating pavilions. Such examples make the city an ideal location for showcasing innovation in urban water management.
"There’s cities that talk about things. And there are very few cities actually doing things. And Rotterdam is one of those cities that doesn’t shy away to just do things."
Against the backdrop of modern architecture, waterfront living, and progressive urban planning, the city welcomed thought leaders, researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from around the world to explore how cities can thrive in the face of environmental and societal challenges.
International Conference on Urban Climate (ICUC)
From 7–11 July, the International Conference on Urban Climate (ICUC) took place at the Postillion Hotel & Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam, a centrally located conference venue equipped for global gatherings. This globally respected event brought together climate scientists, urban planners and architects to explore how cities can adapt to and mitigate the effects of a warming planet. ICUC provides a platform for developing climate-responsive urban design that enhances liveability, equity, and sustainability. Its presence here also reinforces Rotterdam’s alignment with the goals of green meetings and climate-neutral events.
Global events, local impact
These four international conferences, each focusing on urban resilience, brought more than just expertise. The thousands of delegates travelling to Rotterdam contributed directly to the local economy, staying in hotels near event venues, enjoying local cuisine, visiting cultural attractions and using the city’s efficient public transport system. Their presence strengthens the business tourism sector, enriches local knowledge networks, and showcases Rotterdam’s capacity to host world-class MICE events. Beyond the main venues, these events feature exciting side programming across the city, from public lectures and exhibitions to site visits and informal networking sessions, bringing the themes of sustainability and resilience into the urban fabric and making them visible and accessible to a wider audience.
Inspirational videos from Rotterdam
Shaping the future of urban living
In a time when cities around the world are working hard to become more sustainable, inclusive and resilient, Rotterdam stands out as a destination where ideas are not just exchanged, but tested and realised. This summer’s business events reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to shaping the future of urban living and its growing role as a meeting ground for global innovation and impact.
"What makes Rotterdam an international model city is its unbridled perseverance to always make the city better. We have a city that we can improve from within so that major changes in the field of climate adaptation can become a truly integral part of this city. The Rijnhaven with the future tidal park that will create a unique new living environment around the water and at the same time a nature reserve is a fantastic example."
Team Convention Bureau
Want to organise congress or a business event? Rotterdam Partners, our city's official Convention Bureau, is your starting point. We will share our broad expertise and network, dedicated guidance and up-to-date knowledge of Rotterdam. Get in touch with us:
Also interesting for you
Future-ready events in Rotterdam, sustainable and impactful
In Rotterdam, you’ll find plenty of innovative and friendly options to make a big impression with a smaller footprint.
Rotterdam: the resilient and sustainable MICE destination
Whether you're planning a visit or rediscovering your hometown, here are some must-see's and must-do's for your ultimate Rotterdam bucket list in 2025.
Pioneering urban resilience: Floating Office Rotterdam redefines architectural innovation
Blog about why and how Powerhouse Company designed, developed and built Floating Offices Rotterdam, an icon of urban resilience.
City Projects make Rotterdam more resilient, greener and healthier
Rotterdam is giving the city new ‘city lungs’ through a series of City Projects, including more space for leisure, cultural events, housing, and overall better air quality.