For the sixth consecutive year, we have been awarded the Outstanding Certification by A Greener Future (AGF). That makes Paradise City the only festival worldwide to receive AGF’s highest sustainability rating six years in a row.

AGF is an independent, non-profit organisation that developed the world’s first sustainability standard for festivals and events back in 2007. Their framework is used globally to assess events through detailed data analysis and on-site audits, covering everything from energy, transport, and waste to water use, food, biodiversity, governance, and carbon emissions. Certification is only granted after external verification by qualified assessors. As AGF describes it: “Outstanding signifies a truly inspirational event. These are exceptional festivals that have significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions, demonstrate excellent transport, food, and waste management, protect the environment, minimise water use, and communicate this clearly to the public.”

What the 2025 assessment highlighted

During the 2025 edition, we were audited on-site and across our full operational cycle. One of the key findings was our continued shift towards renewable energy. Around 66% of our total energy demand was covered by renewable sources, combining on-site solar panels, battery storage systems, and a fully renewable grid connection, largely provided by our partner Eneco. Compared to previous years, solar production increased significantly, reducing our reliance on generators and fossil fuels during peak moments.

Mobility remains one of the most impactful aspects of festival sustainability, and here, too, the report noted strong progress. Through electric shuttle buses, night trains, and clear communication around low-impact travel options, 23817 visitors were able to travel with reduced emissions (i.e. bike, train, shuttle, bus, or other means of public transport). Artist and crew travel increasingly shifted towards trains and electric vehicles, further lowering transport-related emissions.

AGF also highlighted our continued performance in waste prevention and circular systems. An extensive recycling park, high sorting rates, and clear audience engagement, especially at the campsite, remain key strengths. Our food and beverage operations also scored strongly, thanks to plant-based menus as standard, a focus on local suppliers, and transparent sourcing.

Set on the historic grounds of Ribaucourt Castle, we continue to take our responsibility towards the site seriously. Independent biodiversity assessments confirmed that no significant or irreversible damage has occurred to the park or surrounding ecosystems, supported by ongoing water monitoring and long-term ecological care.

Where we can still do better

While the overall assessment remains Outstanding, AGF also points out where further progress is both possible and necessary. Audience travel continues to represent the largest share of our total carbon footprint. Although major steps have been taken, there is still room to further incentivise and structurally support low-emission travel, particularly for international visitors.

Even though considerable progress in this field has been made, the report also highlights the importance of continuing to reduce reliance on backup diesel generators, especially during peak demand moments. Further battery optimisation and smarter load balancing will be key focus areas moving forward. We openly acknowledge these challenges. For us, sustainability is not a fixed destination, but an ongoing process of measuring, learning, and adjusting, year after year.

Beyond certification

Receiving AGF’s Outstanding Certification for the sixth year in a row is not about labels or rankings. It confirms that long-term commitment, transparency, and collaboration can meaningfully reduce the environmental impact of large-scale cultural events. Beneath the surface of music, scenography, and celebration, this work continues quietly. Year after year.

If you're interested in the nitty-gritty, you can download the complete AGF report below for all the detailed findings: