The United Nations has designated Gothenburg, Sweden, as the new host city for its Sustainable Lifestyle Hub, further advancing the UN’s mission to foster local innovation in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in tourism, events, and lifestyle. The announcement was made during the UN General Assembly in New York September 24. 

Photo: Visit Sweden

The hub positions Gothenburg as an international platform where global and local stakeholders – including businesses, academia, non-profits, and municipalities – will collaborate on scalable projects to accelerate the transition toward sustainable lifestyles. The first major event is planned for early 2026, with the initiative representing a two-year commitment. 

Renowned chef Marcus Samuelsson, who grew up in Gothenburg, marked the occasion by highlighting sustainable food and serving Gothenburg’s new sustainable signature dish, Gothenburg Royale in collaboration with Visit Sweden. Katarina Thorstensson, Senior Strategist & Advisor, sustainability and destination development Göteborg & Co, also presented the city’s latest sustainability initiatives. 
 

“Being at the UN Headquarters among world leaders and putting Gothenburg on the global map is both significant and historic. We now look forward to the coming two years as a sustainability hub,” said Thorstensson. 

“Local solutions can spark global transformation,” said Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships. “Together with Gothenburg, we will accelerate sustainable lifestyles and connect local action to global impact.” 

Photos: UN Partnerships / Kiara Worth and Visit Sweden