Helsinki is committed to sustainability in all its activities. According to many international indicators, Helsinki and tourism, as well as events as part of it, are doing well in terms of sustainable development. Sustainability is developed from an ecological, socio-cultural and economic perspective. Promoting sustainable destinations and activities requires strengthening the positive effects and minimising the negative effects. It should be noted that sustainability and growth are not opposites of each other. Culturally, socially, ecologically and economically responsible choices can achieve growth in the profitability of business operations, for instance. Sustainable growth and renewal will become a reality if public and private actors and consumers change their practices responsibly and on a long-term basis. Succeeding in this also requires systematic planning, measuring, monitoring, communication and support for companies and other operators on the path towards certification and continuous development of operations. As a pioneer in the sustainability of tourism and events and a solver of future challenges, Helsinki can achieve significant competitive advantage. This also supports the economic development priority of developing business that solves globally relevant problems.

Helsinki has only one programme, the Helsinki tourism and events programme 2022-2026. For Helsinki it is integral that these sectors work closely together as they are more often than not one and the same. Additionally, sustainability should not be considered as something separate from the "real strategy". Sustainability is encompassed in all actions, hence only one programme.

Helsinki was second on the European Union Access City Awards in 2022 and third in the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards. This gives a solid background in order to develop DEI in accordance to the Helsinki Tourism Inclusivity Programme.