The Austrian broadcaster ORF is setting ambitious environmental goals for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna. Recognising the immense platform of Europe’s largest TV event, ORF is striving to achieve two prestigious Austrian environmental certifications: ‘Green Event’ and ‘Green Producing’. This initiative underscores their commitment to demonstrating that large-scale entertainment can go hand-in-hand with ecological responsibility and international collaboration.
As preparations for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna get underway, the host broadcaster ORF is placing a significant emphasis on sustainability. The organisation has publicly declared its intention to secure both the ‘Green Event’ and ‘Green Producing’ certifications, two highly regarded Austrian environmental labels.
A Commitment to Environmental Responsibility
The Eurovision Song Contest, with its vast audience and global reach, presents a unique opportunity to set a precedent for sustainable event management. ORF, as a public service media house, aims to leverage this platform to showcase how major international events can operate with a strong commitment to ecological principles.
The pursuit of the ‘Green Event’ certification involves a comprehensive approach to minimising the environmental impact of the entire contest. This typically includes strategies for waste reduction, sustainable transport for attendees and delegations, responsible energy consumption, and the use of eco-friendly materials throughout the production and staging of the event.
Similarly, the ‘Green Producing’ certification focuses on the environmental footprint of the television production itself. This encompasses sustainable practices in areas such as set construction, lighting, sound, and the overall technical operations, ensuring that the broadcast is delivered with the lowest possible environmental impact.
Leading by Example
ORF’s dedication to these certifications highlights a growing trend within the Eurovision Song Contest community towards greater environmental consciousness. By integrating sustainable practices into the core of the event’s planning and execution, Vienna 2026 aims to serve as a beacon for future hosts and large-scale productions worldwide.
The broadcaster is keen to prove that top-tier entertainment, effective international cooperation, and a deep sense of ecological responsibility are not mutually exclusive but can indeed complement each other to create a memorable and impactful event for millions.
