Working towards a sustainable congress
Thanks to its relatively small size for a European capital, and its iconic canal belt, Amsterdam is naturally suited to eco-friendly ways of getting around. The city has a dense public transport network and is easily traversed on foot or by bicycle. You can cover most of Amsterdam’s sights on foot, take a canal tour or rent a bike, if you feel like mixing with the locals!
Reaching the RAI Amsterdam congress venue from your hotel is no exception. You can get your daily exercise when you walk or cycle to and from the venue; see the sights along the way and leave no carbon footprint behind. The RAI is also a stop on the brand-new North-South metro line (‘Europaplein’) that goes straight through the city’s historic centre. This particular line has no schedule: metros simply come and go every six minutes and you can get to the city centre before you even realise.
The EAU is providing free four-day Transportation Passes to congress delegates. These can be picked up at the Transportation Desk located in the Registration Area. This ticket has a 96-hour validity from the first moment it is used. The GVB travel card includes metro, bus and tram service within Amsterdam. No need to ever use a taxi!
If you’re still planning your trip to Amsterdam, consider taking one of the many high-speed rail options. Amsterdam is connected to several German, Belgian and French cities by convenient high-speed services. Amsterdam even has a Eurostar terminal with a direct connection to London.
A modern congress
When you collect your EAU20 bag (goodies included) at the Registration Area, note that these tote bags are reusable. They are made of 100% organic cotton and, for the first time, printed with amusing urology-themed slogans. There are five different bags, so keep an eye out for one that tickles you.
This year, we are using the NEW EAU Events app to communicate with our delegates, and to offer an up-to-date and convenient scientific programme. The app also allows for audience interaction (voting, asking questions to moderators) in select sessions. You can compile your own daily schedule with a few simple ticks. Using the app saves in printing thousands of traditional 600-page programme books. Go paperless and download the new app via Google Play (https://bit.ly/2OCCaeG) or the App Store (https://apple.co/2VunJKW).
How the little things count
RAI Amsterdam uses recycle bins. The bins are divided into paper, plastic and organic waste. Like the rest of the country, Amsterdam separates its waste so it can be recycled and/or disposed properly. Amsterdam even uses plastic-fishing boat tours to help keep its canals clean.
Did you know that tap water in the Netherlands is safe to drink? Bring a bottle and refill it as much as you want without the need for bottled waters and the associated waste.