Harpa´s SDGs
Harpa’s sustainability strategy is grounded in international standards and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We publish an annual sustainability report alongside our financial statements, in line with the UFS guidelines from Nasdaq in cooperation with the Iceland Chamber of Commerce. Our aim is to transparently share our operations and their impact on the environment and society. Langbrók Consulting assisted Harpa’s management in preparing the report.
Since the start of 2022, Harpa’s Sustainability Steering Group has been leading the setting and implementation of sustainability targets, with support from sustainability consultants. Our primary focus is on adopting UFS metrics while simultaneously enhancing Harpa’s social influence and cultural awareness in society. Harpa has completed all Green Steps of the Icelandic Environment Agency and achieved Swan Certification as a conference centre in 2022.
Since 2015, Harpa has consistently worked to lower greenhouse gas emissions, actively participating in the fight against climate change.
Our Chosen SDGs
Harpa aligns with five UN Sustainable Development Goals, chosen by staff to reflect the company’s values and sustainability priorities.
Good Health and Well-being
Promote healthy lives and well-being for all at all ages. As a well-managed and human-centred workplace, Harpa supports staff wellness through health subsidies and wellness assessments. We serve as a national cultural venue and platform for diverse events, enhancing life quality, community, and mental health.
Gender Equality
Ensure gender equality and empower all women and girls. Harpa places strong emphasis on gender equality through a clear equality policy, strategic plans, and equal pay certification. We integrate gender and equality perspectives throughout our operations. Harpa is also a participant in the KeyChange initiative and is committed to balancing women’s representation in the music sector.
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. Harpa’s vision is to create economic and social value. We host around 1,400 events annually, supporting a broad range of professionals with employment, foreign exchange earnings, and boosting Reykjavík’s tourism and service industry. We also aim to be a sought-after workplace for skilled professionals by improving productivity, environment, and social contribution.
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. Harpa’s agenda provides a strong home field for Icelandic music and a global platform for fresh creative voices. As an open civic space, Harpa accommodates family-friendly and accessible events, grassroots music, creative formats, and inclusive participation. User experience is at the forefront, and innovation, professionalism, and creative solutions are deliberately applied to enhance it.
Climate Action
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Harpa has set clear targets to be a sustainability leader by systematically reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its operations. Harpa has completed all 5 Green Steps of the Environment Agency’s public sector programme and continues to implement improvements. Harpa also obtained Swan Certification as a conference centre. The Nordic Swan ecolabel encourages sustainable development, taking future generations into account, while offering consumers environmentally friendly options.
