Learning sustainability transitions at Amsterdam’s smart stadium

On June 5, 2025, participants of Nyenrode’s new Impact MBA had the opportunity to visit Amsterdam’s iconic Johan Cruijff ArenA - a global leader in sustainable stadium operations. The visit formed part of the program’s mission to immerse future leaders in real-world examples of environmental and social impact across diverse industries.

Net‑positive by 2030! 

An ambitious goal! One major example of the Johan Cruijff ArenA’s successful sustainability projects are its 4,200 solar panels and two mega‑batteries totaling 8.6 MWh in energy storage. Since August 2024 the ArenA has operated major events such as football matches and concerts entirely on green energy - with surplus energy provided back to the national grid.

Circularity and sustainability in action

Beyond energy, the Johan Cruijff ArenA functions as a circular sustainability lab with numerous impactful initiatives with an ecosytem of partners, such as: a vegan-forward catering strategy which cut CO₂ per burger by 77%, and a bio-digester that turns food waste into energy. Both initiatives contribute to the Johan Cruijff ArenA paving the way with innovations towards higher sustainability performances. 

Empowering local communities

On the social front, the Johan Cruijff ArenA shows a strong commitment to community empowerment by hosting events that enable children from diverse multi-cultural backgrounds to engage in sport clinics and career workshops – aimed at broadening the horizons of local youth. Furthermore, the ArenA contributes to a living-lab project of the Amsterdam Southeast district that helps youth to develop soft and technical skills within their neighborhood.

Inspiring the next generation of leaders

For the Impact MBA students and program management, the visit was a vivid reminder that sustainability is not an isolated effort - it’s a systemic approach that creates value for all. As Professor Nicolas Chevrollier remarked: “What’s remarkable is how the Johan Cruijff ArenA integrates energy, food, water, community, and careers into one coherent impact strategy. For me this is leadership in action.”

Ready to lead the transition to a better future?

The Johan Cruijff ArenA visit wasn’t just a field trip - it was a front-row experience in how bold, integrated thinking drives lasting change. During the Impact MBA, you will develop the knowledge, tools, and mindset to become a sustainably leader in your own field. Join the next cohort of the Impact MBA and become part of our movement.