Time and again, Vienna ranks as the city with the highest standard of living. Yet, how does it hold up when it comes to sustainability? According to the World Economic Forum, we might not be the alpha of the pack, but still going pretty strong, coming fourth. Why? Of course, sustainable city policies play a huge part but what really shakes things up is the vibrancy of the Vienna start-up scene.

Whether you are a tree-hugger or more of a pragmatic spirit, to most of us it’s clear that taking better care of our planet would essentially be a good thing. If it only weren’t so damn difficult without the right infrastructure and incentives.

Fear not, because this is where sustainable entrepreneurs and their start-ups come in to save the day: new shops and projects keep popping up like mushrooms, which makes it increasingly easy for the environmentally-minded to turn their principles into practice.

In this post, I will take you through Vienna’s inner districts, showing you that so much of what your green heart desires is already here. And rest assured – this is only the beginning!

First district – Innere Stadt

The first district synonymous with luxury, posh clothes and shoes. Fancy bars and restaurants. Yet, luxury doesn’t need to be a one-way street. With the growing number of sustainable restaurants, why not treat yourself while simultaneously indulging the earth for a change? Eating more plant-based is a delicious way to help save the planet. After all, animal agriculture is one of the leading causes of pollution and global warming. What better way to stand up for Mother Earth than relishing in the delicacies served at the many vegetarian or vegan restaurants of the first district?

Yamm is exactly as yummy as it sounds. Many think it is one of the best vegetarian restaurants in town – I can certainly not argue with that. Whether for breakfast, lunch, coffee or after.