METREX Spring conference in Helsinki
10-12 June 2026 , Helsinki metropolitan area
From Polycrisis to Multibenefits – Promoting Holistic Sustainability in Spatial Planning
Cover photo by Julia Kivelä
Rapidly growing metropolitan regions today are facing a polycrisis: sustainability challenges that occur simultaneously and are deeply interconnected.
The METREX Helsinki Conference explores how cities and metropolitan regions can move beyond crisis management towards generating solutions that deliver multiple benefits.
The METREX Helsinki Team, a shared METREX membership of three organisations from the Helsinki metropolitan area, is hosting the conference in Helsinki next summer.
While each organisation approaches regional development and planning from its own perspective, they are united by a shared ambition: to foster a Helsinki metropolitan area that is liveable, vibrant, and climate-resilient.
The conference provides a platform for shared learning and exchange on how different dimensions of sustainability can be addressed simultaneously in metropolitan development, while also offering participants an experiential introduction to the Helsinki metropolitan area and its most inspiring locations.
Particular attention is given to:
- Comprehensive and sustainable planning for growing cities and urban regions. We examine how urban growth can be aligned with rapid climate action, stronger biodiversity, and social sustainability.
- Regional-scale planning as a driver of sustainable transformation. We explore the trade-offs and tensions that inevitably arise when balancing environmental, social, and economic objectives.
- The role of knowledge and data. We consider how evidence can support holistic sustainability in planning and assessment and strengthen climate change adaptation and the resilience of metropolitan regions.
By bringing together planners, researchers, and practitioners, the conference offers a platform to share insights and best practices and to discuss current challenges. Together, we will deepen our understanding of holistic sustainability in urban planning and explore how well-considered choices can turn challenges into opportunities for more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban regions.
About the hosting region
Helsinki-Uusimaa is at the heart of Northern Europe and at the Baltic Sea. Including the capital city of Helsinki, the region is home to 1.8 million inhabitants, about a third of the entire population of Finland. The region is the driver of international competitiveness, research, and development in the country.
For a more in-depth knowledge, please visit the following websites:
The METREX Helsinki Team, a shared METREX membership of three organisations from the Helsinki metropolitan area, is hosting the conference in Helsinki next summer. While each organisation approaches regional development from its own perspective, they are united by a shared ambition: to foster a Helsinki metropolitan area that is liveable, vibrant and climate-resilient.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
June 09: Pre-conference programme (optional)
Possible early evening pre-programme for early comers in the city centre.
Pre-registration required.
Day 1: June 10
Main venue: Urban Environment Building, City of Helsinki
Address: Työpajankatu 8, 00580 HelsinkiCity of Helsinki
Expected schedule: 10:00 -16:00 working sessions | 17:00 – 21:00 social events
The first day of the conference is dedicated to the work of the METREX Expert and Network Groups. In the evening, the City of Helsinki kindly hosts a reception for conference participants at the beautiful City Hall by the Market Square. The reception is followed by an archipelago cruise, offering a maritime perspective on Helsinki and an introduction to its evolving waterfront areas.
Day 2: June 11
Main venue: Maijansali, Oodi Central Library
Address: Töölönlahdenkatu 4, 00100 Helsinki
Expected schedule: 09:00 -16:00 working sessions | 17:00 – 23:00 social events
The second day is the conference day and takes place at the iconic Oodi Central Library (https://oodihelsinki.fi/en/), located in the heart of Helsinki.
Internationally known for its architecture and its role as a civic meeting place, Oodi provides an inspiring setting for a full day of discussions on holistic sustainability.
After the conference sessions, participants are invited to unwind at Uunisaari (https://uunisaari.fi/en/), a small island just off the city centre. The evening begins with a traditional Finnish sauna experience (optional) and an opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea, before culminating in the conference dinner at Uunisaari Restaurant & Café
On a practical note, Ferry to and from Uunisaari leaves non-stop between Kompassitori and Uunisaaren yhteysaluslaituri.
Last ferry to the mainland at 23.15
Day 3: June 12
Main venue: Urban Environment Building, City of Helsinki
Address: Työpajankatu 8, 00580 HelsinkiCity of Helsinki
Expected schedule: 09:00 -13:00 GA and working sessions | 13:00 – 15:30 excursions
The day opens with the METREX General Assembly, followed by a working lunch with a collective discussion on METREX’s future and closing remarks. Two optional excursions will close the day.
For accommodation, the local hosts recommend the following easily accessible and sustainable hotels:
- Modern and charming:
Book at Hotel Helka by 10 May 2026 using the promo code METREX2026.
Prices are fixed, ranging from €120/night for a Smart Single Room to €160/night for a Comfort Double Room. - Comfortable:
All Nordic Scandic hotels near the Helsinki main railway station.
Book with the code CGRO to receive a 10% discount on the standard rate, subject to availability.
