Twin transformation: Digitalisation meets sustainability
Positive effects for Leipzig as a conference location
What’s known as the twin transformation brings together two major trends: digitalisation and sustainability. Modern technologies and digital solutions are paving the way for lasting, positive change. For Leipzig, one thing is clear: despite the complex challenges, this transformation is well worth the effort. It benefits the economy, enhances quality of life, and strengthens the city’s appeal as a conference location. With its Digital City Unit, Leipzig has created a central hub for driving digital transformation. From smart city projects and the development of an energy atlas to air quality monitoring, the unit brings together partners from local government, the wider community, academia and business. The goal? To use new technologies to make Leipzig more competitive, sustainable and socially inclusive. This strong spirit of collaboration and innovation also benefits the city’s conference sector and the many organisers who choose Leipzig as a destination.
Some early milestones are already setting an example: With EU funding, the unit has been able to implement pilot projects for a smart city for climate-neutral neighbourhoods (SPARCS) and for more energy-efficient public transport planning (EfficienCE). Leipzig is one of 100 European cities selected as a Smart City pilot, receiving EU support on its path to climate neutrality. Through the ID-Ideal project, Leipzig and Dresden are leading the way in digital identity solutions. The city is also advancing civic digitalisation (ROOTS) and using municipal cleaning vehicles to create a mobile sensor infrastructure (DiGuRaL). In the joint Connected Urban Twins (CUT) project with Hamburg and Munich, Leipzig is contributing to the development of an urban digital twin.
And Leipzig’s Smart City Lab serves as a digital innovation hub, exploring how digital technologies can support sustainable and citizen-friendly urban development. These projects have given Leipzig a wealth of expertise – making the city a valuable partner for knowledge exchange. As an organiser, are you still looking for compelling keynote speakers on smart and sustainable urban transformation? You’ll find plenty of inspiration in Leipzig!
Digital services at the Congress Center Leipzig and KONGRESSHALLE
Ticketing, hotel portal and access management
Leipzig’s conference industry is actively shaping the twin transformation. Digital services here create real added value for your event. In this regard, the Congress Center Leipzig (CCL) and the KONGRESSHALLE am Zoo Leipzig – the city’s largest conference venues – are leading the way. They combine energy-efficient technologies to conserve resources. As an organiser, you can take advantage of the in-house ticketing system offered by Leipziger Messe. Specifically developed to meet the complex demands of trade fairs and congresses, it can be customised to suit your event. A dedicated hotel portal also makes it easy for your delegates to find suitable accommodation at attractive rates. The digital access management system gives you a clear overview of your event and makes it easy to analyse key performance indicators. For your delegates, it means one thing above all: smooth, seamless processes that help create a positive event experience.
One venue. Endless potential. The Porsche Experience Center Leipzig.
From 0 to unforgettable.
At the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig, top-tier events are the standard. Whether it’s an exciting summer party, an adventurous team-building activity or a high-profile congress – here, you’ll find the perfect event space for any occasion. Thanks to cutting-edge event technology, numerous events at the Porsche Experience Center have already been delivered in digital or hybrid formats. One such highlight was Porsche’s own 2024 annual press conference, which was streamed worldwide from the auditorium at the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig. You can also look forward to an unforgettable supporting programme. Next door, you and your guests can discover how technology meets innovation on a guided factory tour. Fancy a shot of adrenaline? Take part in a driving event on the circuit – either as a co-pilot in a Porsche or behind the wheel yourself. Electric models such as the Taycan and the new Macan are increasingly part of the experience. Another standout feature is the expansive off-road area at the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig. Set in a biotopically structured landscape covering over 100 hectares, this area is home to wild horses, wild oxen and honeybees – the perfect setting for a truly unique event.
Technology for species conservation at Zoo Leipzig
Facial recognition for chimpanzees and multimedia-based education
Experience a very different take on the twin transformation with events at Zoo Leipzig – one of the most modern and innovative zoos in the world.
For 25 years, the “zoo of the future” strategy has combined species-appropriate animal care with unforgettable visitor experiences. A behind-the-scenes look reveals how digital technologies contribute to the success of this strategy – supporting modern animal welfare, conservation efforts, and engaging, multimedia-based education.
A fascinating example: At the great ape enclosure Pongoland, Zoo Leipzig is working with facial recognition software developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology (IDMT). Visitors can use it to identify individual chimpanzees and access tailored information about each one. Events held in the zoo’s event spaces immerse you in a captivating world of animals and plants. As part of the supporting programme, you’re invited to explore Gondwanaland – Europe’s only tropical jungle experience of its kind – along with the zoo’s various themed worlds.
In just a short time, you’ll travel right around the globe. See for yourself how digital technologies here enhance education, support conservation and boost visitor satisfaction.
Smart and sustainable services at Leipzig’s conference hotels
Modern amenities for happy guests
Ensuring guests feel welcome and completely at ease is the top priority in Leipzig’s conference hotels. Digital innovations that enhance service quality and sustainability are a matter of course. You can experience this first-hand at top venues like The Westin Leipzig and the Leipzig Marriott Hotel. High-quality, modern customer service ensures a comfortable stay for both overnight and conference guests. It starts with paperless check-in and extends to intelligent climate control systems, smart room features, LED lighting, state-of-the-art conference technology, and electric vehicle charging stations just outside. These hotels are meeting rising guest expectations while gaining a valuable competitive edge. And happy guests, of course, are more likely to return.
Eco-friendly travel via smartphone
On the move with the LeipzigMove app
The mobility of conference delegates is a key element in making events more sustainable. Here too, Leipzig is harnessing digital solutions to promote sustainability, customer convenience and eco-friendly travel. The LeipzigMOVE app from the LVB public transport authority is the perfect companion for delegates. It brings together all modes of transport in one place and encourages the use of greener alternatives for getting around the city. Users can see which options will get them from A to B – whether it’s by bus, tram, taxi, e-scooter, or car and bike sharing. At a glance, the app shows the nearest stop, available bike or e-scooter. Tickets and rental fees can be paid directly via the app.
Conclusion
Discover even more smart insights about Leipzig at IMEX 2025 in Frankfurt
Leipzig demonstrates how conferences and congresses can benefit from the major trend of the twin transformation in a variety of ways – and how the combination of digitalisation and sustainability can add real value to your event. Looking for even more smart insights? IMEX 2025 in Frankfurt is the perfect opportunity for face-to-face conversations and a chance to get to know Leipzig as a conference destination. The Leipzig Convention Bureau and representatives of the Leipzig Convention Network look forward to welcoming you at Stand G 160 from 20 to 22 May. Why not book a meeting with us today? We look forward to seeing you – and sharing a coffee together!