Teatro Arriaga Antzokia, a historic public theatre located in the heart of Bilbao, stands today as a leading example of sustainability in the cultural sector. As the first theatre in Spain to receive the ETC Theatre Green Book European sustainability certification, it has integrated environmental responsibility into its productions, operations, and building management. Rooted in Bilbao’s broader urban transformation towards ecological and cultural innovation, the Arriaga has implemented a comprehensive strategy involving energy efficiency, waste reduction, circular material use, and audience engagement. Its commitment demonstrates how cultural institutions can become catalysts for climate action, aligning artistic excellence with the goals of the European Green Deal and the UN Sustainable Development Agenda.

Harrobia – Huntza Hiedra is a pioneering Cultural Innovation Centre based in Bilbao that is redefining how cultural infrastructures engage with the ecological transition. Through its comprehensive Huntza–Hiedra plan, Harrobia integrates technological innovation, artistic creation, and environmental responsibility to address the climate emergency. Its strategy—structured in three phases—includes actions such as energy efficiency upgrades, intelligent building management systems, renewable energy generation, and participatory waste and emission co-management. Inspired by biomimicry and systemic thinking, the project promotes a holistic model where culture, sustainability, and digital transformation converge. Harrobia thus emerges as a benchmark for regenerative cultural practice, aligning local action with the broader goals of ecological resilience and sustainable cultural governance.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a global benchmark for integrating sustainability into cultural management. Beyond its pioneering environmental measures—such as its certified carbon footprint, installation of solar panels, and energy efficiency initiatives—the Museum promotes economic sustainability through stable local partnerships and the generation of long-term cultural tourism that supports Bilbao’s creative economy. Equally, it fosters sociocultural sustainability by engaging diverse audiences, supporting local artists, and advancing accessibility and education programs that strengthen community participation. The Guggenheim thus exemplifies a holistic model where culture, economy, and ecology converge to drive sustainable urban and cultural transformation.

Azkuna Zentroa is a landmark cultural centre that illustrates Bilbao’s vision of culture as a driver for innovation, participation, and sustainability. Housed in a former wine warehouse redesigned by Philippe Starck, the venue brings together contemporary art, community engagement, and responsible resource management in an inclusive civic space. Through a diverse programme of exhibitions, performances, and learning activities, Azkuna Zentroa promotes cultural participation while integrating sustainability into its operations, from energy efficiency and accessibility to collaborative partnerships with local actors. Its model demonstrates how multifunctional cultural infrastructures can foster creativity, social cohesion, and environmental awareness at the heart of the city.

La Perrera is a dynamic cultural and creative hub that embodies Bilbao’s commitment to socially engaged and sustainable cultural practice. Located in a regenerated industrial space, it hosts artists, cultural organisations, and community initiatives that explore new forms of creation, participation, and civic innovation. La Perrera fosters sustainable development by providing accessible spaces for experimentation, supporting emerging creators, and promoting projects rooted in social inclusion, local identity, and environmental awareness. Its collaborative model encourages interdisciplinary work and community interaction, positioning the hub as an essential catalyst for cultural democratisation and grassroots sustainability. As a living example of how cultural infrastructures can nurture resilience and social cohesion, La Perrera reinforces Bilbao’s role as a leader in sustainable cultural transformation.