On. Oct. 10, 2025 Malmö Opera was named as the first opera and music theater house in Europe to achieve verification under the international standard ISO 26000 for social responsibility, recognizing its leadership in economic, environmental, and social sustainability within the performing arts.

The verification, conducted by Verify Agency of Sweden AB under accreditation by Swedac, follows a comprehensive audit of Malmö Opera’s practices, from materials used in costumes, masks, and scenography to travel policies and community engagement initiatives.

“Malmö Opera shows extraordinary leadership by voluntarily and transparently having its entire work with social responsibility verified,” said Eva Vati, CEO of Verify Agency of Sweden AB, per an official press release issued by the company. “As far as we can determine from available European verification systems, Malmö Opera is the first opera house to achieve ISO 26000 verification, positioning them as a pioneer in sustainable development in the cultural sector.”

“We are very proud to be the first opera house in Europe to achieve sustainability verification through ISO 26000,” added Christina Hörnell, CEO and Theatre Director of Malmö Opera. “Sustainability must become part of everything we do every day. The verification gives us a systematic way to work with this and shows that we are on the right track. Now the real work begins together with everyone at and with Malmö Opera.”

Inspired by the Theatre Green Book, Malmö Opera pursued ISO 26000 verification to formalize its sustainability efforts. The audit confirmed compliance with seven core principles: accountability, transparency, ethical behavior, respect for stakeholder interests, respect for the law, compliance with international standards, and respect for human rights. The certification will be renewed and updated annually.

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