Energy
LED lamps
2
(0) none at all, (1) older energy-saving lamps, (2) argely LED, (3) complete LED lighting
(0) none at all, (1) older energy-saving lamps, (2) argely LED, (3) complete LED lighting
LED 'light bulbs' are now available for really all lamps, even with pleasantly warm light colors. Also, think about the lights outside - are they LED as well?
0.23
Nutrition
Vegan days
0
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
Vegan means refraining from fish, meat, milk, cheese and other animal foods. Unthinkable for many people, on the one hand because of the taste, and on the other hand because they consider it unhealthy.
To the taste, it can be said: Among the extremely diverse vegan alternatives, something certainly tastes just as good or even better. We just have to try it - from vegan cheese to egg salad to burgers. Many celebrities and athletes are vegan. Vegan is booming.
Regarding health, it must be said: Our early ancestors ate healthier than we eat today. There was mixed food with only little meat and fish and also little grain and instead more legumes. If you eat a vegan diet, you have to pay attention to two nutrients: vitamin B12 and unsaturated omega 3 fatty acids. B12 can be bought for sucking (or as an additive in foods that are no longer called organic). Omega 3 fatty acids are available in linseed and algae oil. After a few months vegan, a blood test can show whether there are deficiency symptoms. As a rule, vegans eat healthier and are fitter than others.
What else does it bring: In addition to ethical reasons (keeping and killing animals), vegans help to prevent the deforestation of forests, because most areas in the world need the feed. In fact, we will not be able to feed the growing world population in the way we Germans. Vegans also prevent greenhouse gases from the methane emissions of cows, save enormous amounts of drinking water and prevent the pollution of soils, groundwater and waters.
4.44
Vegetarian days
2
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
Unlike the vegan diet, a vegetarian diet can also include milk, cheese or eggs. Vegetarian days are healthy, mean less animal husbandry and thus less consumption of land and water.
People in the industrialized world consume more than three times more animal products, which according to the EAT-Lancet Commission would be healthy for us and the planet. We don't have to become vegans or vegetarians right away, but maybe just flexitarians.
3.01
Food from the region
3
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of food
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of food
Food from the region, from the weekly market and from the farm shop have not been transported far (there are of course also exceptions there) and strengthen the local economy.
However, there are also inefficient short transport routes when vehicles with little load drive to the points of sale. E-mobility and cargo bikes can help here.
Unfortunately, the regional is often also played out against the organic offer: regional, sprayed with pesticides food is not as good as regional organic food, and regional meat is not as good for the environment as the renunciation of meat.
0.23
Organic food
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the products also available as organic
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the products also available as organic
Organic is extremely important for biodiversity. We have the greatest species extinction since the extinction of the dinosaurs and the consequences are greater than those of climate change. Pesticides and mineral fertilizers endanger our future. In addition, soils from organic farming usually store more carbon and thus help against the climate catastrophe. The counter-argument is often that the yields in organic farming are lower than in industrial agriculture and therefore more forests have to be cut down. This is true, for example, with cereals that are not unrestrictedly healthy. But if we eat less meat, waste less food and eat more healthy legumes, we have plenty of additional space available and can feed the entire world organically and even plant a little more forest.
Organic in the canteen or at the kiosk or at company events is of course more expensive - but if it is not exemplified somewhere, what do we expect in the private sector.
1.61
Organic from the region
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the products also available as organic from the region
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the products also available as organic from the region
Which is better - the organic apple from New Zealand or the sprayed apple from the region? Answer: both wrong. Organic food from the region means less transport and is therefore even better than organic food with wide transport.
Organic in the canteen or at the kiosk or at events is of course more expensive - but if it is not exemplified somewhere, what do we expect in the private sector. Sometimes a direct delivery from providers from the region is a way to save costs.
2.00
Organic from the region seasonal
1
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the seasonal products also available as organic
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the seasonal products also available as organic
Seasonal organic products in addition to regional organic products also have less energy expenditure for storage.
In the respective months, other products are available seasonally, so that we can eat healthy and tasty all year round with little transport and storage effort with regard to a seasonal calendar.
2.16
Tap water
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% instead of purchased mineral water or soft drinks
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% instead of purchased mineral water or soft drinks
Fortunately, tap water has long been a trend. There are drinking water dispensers in schools and the students have their drinking bottles with them, and managers also bring their drinking bottles to workshops. Many children do not even get used to the unhealthy sugar drinks.
Tap water is more strictly controlled than bottled drinks and saves a lot of energy and packaging.
Companies can set up water dispensers - if necessary also work with filters, for example to remove chlorine odors.
1.30
Avoidance of food waste
3
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) I save or avoid 100% of the food to be thrown away
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) I save or avoid 100% of the food to be thrown away
Food is wasted from the field to the factories and transport routes to the throw away by us, the restaurants and the supermarkets. This ultimately means that more areas are needed for cultivation and thus forests are cut down and biodiversity is endangered with sprays and fertilizers.
We can shop more specifically, throw away goods not only because of the best before date, save food in the household (e.g. freeze bananas or make durable spreads and soups from leftover vegetables yourself), save specifically rescued food (e.g. too small or wrinkled goods) and also donate leftover food in many places, e.g. to the food banks.
Canteens and kiosks and also events can query the demand in advance and thus prevent food from being thrown away. A dish can also be deliberately offered the next day, which advertises the utilization of the leftovers from the previous day.
0.83
Garbage
Separate garbage consistently
3
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
Consistently separating waste, including green waste, glass and paper, is not as self-evident as can be assumed. Many make little effort here and don't really know what belongs in which bin. The residual waste bin also costs the public sector a lot of money, while the recyclable and green waste bin are free of charge. But also special waste, such as batteries, incandescent lamps, electrical appliances, etc. must be disposed of properly.
0.65
Paperless office/media
2
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) most, (3) all only digital.
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) most, (3) all only digital.
Saving paper helps to protect forests - recycling paper also ultimately means more demand for fresh pulp from trees.
We don't even need to print many things in the first place, but can save them on devices that we already have. For internal processes but also for dialogue with customers, digital forms should continue to prevail.
0.61
Compost toilet
0
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) always
Compost toilets are quite controversial - not only because of the proximity to their own faeces, but also because of hygiene, germs, or drug residues.
On the other hand, we can no longer give finite artificial fertilizer to the fields and at best collect a little of the nutrients through the sewage treatment plant in order to lead the rest into the seas at the end or to burn the sewage sludge.
Compost toilets with microorganisms can ferment faeces and return the nutrients and organic material in cycles of agriculture and the garden. Public compost toilets and also sustainable festivals follow this approach. In terms of approval in the gray area, really comfortable compost toilets are also possible in houses.
Odor formation occurs only through the urine. Therefore, compost toilets separate it from the faeces (hence the name separating toilet). Urine is a great fertilizer - we only have to dilute it and of course only apply it to the plants when they also grow. Otherwise, the nitrates will end up in the groundwater with the rain.
0.53
Reusable in canteen and kiosk
3
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) mostly, (3) always
After unpacked and for drinks after the tap water, the best thing we can do is to buy our food in reusable containers. (By the way, there are also reusable shipping boxes for office supplies as well as some regional delivery services). Also ask whether the containers are transported empty throughout Germany, or whether North German beer flows into the empty bottle of Bavarian beer and vice versa. Next question, what energy does it cost to clean the containers. Composite packaging or cans that are easy to recycle are the better alternative in some studies. In such studies, it is necessary to look closely at what is being compared. Ultimately, it is important to close regional cycles.
Next question, whether the containers should be made of glass or plastic - glass is recycled more often, plastic is lighter and means less energy during transport.
0.81
Social
Fair trade products
3
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
At Fair-Trade, we usually think of the label of the same name - which is no longer in disrepute. But there are also other labels - some rather greenwashing, some quite trying to do better. Fair is not always the same as organic and organic is not always fair (but some labels combine both).
The importance is immense: fair working conditions in the world ensure less migration, more climate protection and a more peaceful world.
Extremely remarkable is the background of chocolate and the connection between child slavery (!) And the common products from Nutella to children's chocolate to the Mars bar: https://edition.cnn.com/world/freedom-project
Companies and events can therefore be pioneers for a better world themselves here in the food or in the work clothes or the hand-sewn football.
3.20
Fair wages
2
(0) I don't care at all, (1) partially pay attention to it, (2) get involved, (3) always pay attention to it
(0) I don't care at all, (1) partially pay attention to it, (2) get involved, (3) always pay attention to it
Many people who earn above average can only do this because others earn below average. The gap between rich and poor is getting bigger and bigger. Consumers complain about cheap wages, but the price increase by 50 cents is rarely accepted.
What we deserve is not, as liberals or neoliberals like to think, just a question of diligence. It is the product (!) Out of diligence, skill and the right framework conditions. Anyone who knows many talented and hard-working people who are simply not lucky develops empathy and is willing to pay more, even if it is through tips.
Companies can set an example in the case of remuneration, in particular for less well-paid activities within the scope of their possibilities.
0.74
Volunteering
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) much, (3) maximum
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) much, (3) maximum
Volunteering, whether at the fire brigade, in the sports club or the help in the neighborhood, is enormously important for togetherness and society. Companies can help here to honor volunteering and accompany it through donations.
0.74
Promotion of active political participation
3
(0) we don't do, (1) in social media, (2) about posters and notices, (3) organize activities ourselves
(0) we don't do, (1) in social media, (2) about posters and notices, (3) organize activities ourselves
We experience what happens all over the world when the successful depend on large parts of society: radical currents get influx, the climate catastrophe is denied, hatred against foreigners but also against their own politicians is stoked.
Some "ego trolls" who want to punch through their interests are deliberately playing with such a breeding ground when, for example, conservative parties speak of ideology with the progressive parties or an automobile boss is against vaccination in order not to have to close his works, or others complain against wind power and e-mobility and pro-nuclear power without any expertise. Dissatisfied citizens take this up as 'troll lemmings', feel they belong to the common enemy images and complain on social media against everything that means change towards future viability. It is the fight for so-called memes and no longer, as in the past, solely for sovereignty of interpretation, especially since the experts agree on most questions.
As uncomfortable as it is, we should therefore stand against it in social media and not wave off in frustration. In our environment, we can also get together with others and talk about politics or the design of togetherness - even if many do not want to talk about politics privately at all, because they have an opinion, but not the feeling that they can support it themselves. For example, there is the Open Society Day and regionally certainly many other initiatives. Politicians can motivate, join a party, go to public council meetings, and participate in demonstrations. Having been to Fridays for Future once is an experience! Companies can show attitude! Ideology is not the opinion of the other, but what is not scientifically proven robustly (i.e. more than a single study).
https://www.know-why.net/model/Ch6pG92HeaVbtguDEvK11Iw
0.96
Organize organ and blood donations
0
(0) not at all, (1) blood or organ, (2) blood and organ, (3) blood, organ and Bone marrow
(0) not at all, (1) blood or organ, (2) blood and organ, (3) blood, organ and Bone marrow
Both organ and blood donations or even bone marrow donations cost us overcoming - until we or our loved ones are dependent on it.
Here, too, the same applies - those who do it can be proud of themselves. Entrepreneurs can go ahead and release their employees, for example, if it is blood donation during working hours.
1.60
Citizens' meeting (clubs, fire brigade, squares)
3
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
Support of clubs, squares and halls for the gathering of citizens
0.12
Refugee care
1
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
Societies must take in refugees - no matter how many there are. To be distinguished from this is the number of those who we can also permanently integrate into our society and also have to with regard to our economy and retirement provision or demographic change. A company should actively anticipate and help to accept people with a migration background within the scope of the legal possibilities. Linguistically, English is sometimes the lowest common denominator that can also be chosen in companies. As far as it is legal, we should help these people.
1.44
Cultural promotion
3
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
Cultural promotion can take place in all facets - from young people who make music to exhibitions to the care of traditional festivals.
0.07
Partnerships with developing countries
1
(0) not at all, (1) support some, (2) promote them a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
(0) not at all, (1) support some, (2) promote them a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
Bringing people together in the world is more important than ever in times of globalization. Companies can also get involved here beyond the direct economic interest.
1.37
Nature experience opportunities
3
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) promote a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
Educational trails, information boards, exhibitions, excursions, etc., if necessary also together with schools and nature conservation organizations.
0.07
Clothes
Organic cotton/ linen/ hemp/ wood fiber/ certified virgin wool
3
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) many things, (3) everything
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) many things, (3) everything
Globally, conventional cotton is an environmental problem due to the use of sprays and the high water consumption. In addition, the textile factories poison entire rivers and exploit people during conventional dyeing.
In addition to ecological cotton, there are other natural fibers with sometimes much less damage to the environment.
In the case of virgin wool, attention must be paid to the certification, which excludes animal suffering.
By the way, there is now also outdoor clothing made of densely woven organic cotton as an alternative to the plastic fibers. Plastic fibers always allow microplastics to enter the wastewater during washing and microplastics in the environment may lead to multi-resistant super germs - a long history.
With the points for clothing, if you do not buy conventional cotton, but sometimes choose recycled and sometimes organic cotton, you can give a full 3 points for both.
By the way, organic is also possible with curtains, tablecloths and bed linen!!!
1.69
Recycled cotton
3
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) many things, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) many things, (3) basically
This is about workwear or, for example, in the tourism sector clothing with advertising. Even large, conventional clothing stores sometimes take back old clothes and promise to produce new yarns from them. Often the problem is the quality of short-lived clothing, which is then difficult to recycle and yet ends up in the waste incineration plant or on the dump in developing countries.
1.61
Recycled synthetic fibers without toxic impregnation
3
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) many things, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) many things, (3) basically
This is about workwear or, for example, in the tourism sector clothing with advertising. In particular, the manufacturers of outdoor clothing now use recycled PET bottles for their yarns and they also do without the worst chemicals, such as PFCs. Nevertheless, the question is always whether we have to wear clothes that are designed for the Himalayas in everyday life. Because synthetic fibers also release microplastics from the plastic fleece sweater to the wastewater. Some use a washing bag that is supposed to collect these plastic fiber remains.
0.57
Other Consumption
Used or long-lived furniture
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Many furniture cannot stand being moved or even disassembled and reassembled. They are primarily cheap and the business model is that after a few years we want to buy new furniture. Looking at how valuable the furniture is and then being able to repair it takes us a whole lot further on the way to a better world. It is also amazing what good pieces there are on the used market.
1.30
Repairing instead of buying new
2
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Unfortunately, many devices can no longer be repaired at all, for example if the control unit breaks down from the washing machine and costs more than a new washing machine. And yet there are workshops that also repair mobile phones, washing machines, lawn mowers, etc. - and even if it is as expensive as a new device, it is the good feeling of having done something for a better world again.
0.65
Non-sustainable company parties / excursions
3
(0) have which, (1) very rare, (2) make these environmentally friendly, (3) have no,
(0) have which, (1) very rare, (2) make these environmentally friendly, (3) have no,
This does not refer to the skater track or the artificial turf sports field, but motorsport, skiing on artificially snowy slopes, kiting in bird protection areas, sailboats with biocides on the underwater ship, golfing with high use of water and pesticides, quad rides into nature, skydiving, etc. Of course, these hobbies are fun, which is why it is rewarded if we actively choose the more environmentally friendly alternatives here and thus achieve a rethink with others.
1.00
Production
Fair wages and working conditions supply chain
2
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) generally complied with
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) generally complied with
Transparency in the supply chain should not only strive for the larger companies committed to doing so. This also includes the knowledge of the working conditions under which people work. Child labor and slavery are still common and inhuman working conditions and hunger wages are often at the beginning of the supply chain in the mines and factories abroad. Here, a company can exert pressure and remunerate better accordingly.
0.00
Environmental impact of the supply chain
1
(0) not at all, (1) partially, (2) largely, (3) basically according to the current possibilities minimal
(0) not at all, (1) partially, (2) largely, (3) basically according to the current possibilities minimal
Especially at the beginning of the supply chains, there is a lot of environmental pollution but also land robbery (expropriation such as clearing). Paying attention to standards here makes raw materials and precursors expensive. But transparency in complying with and exceeding standards can make a decisive contribution to the better marketing of end products today.
0.00
Moderate office/warehouse/production area
1
(0) a lot of unused area, (1) a lot of space, (2) little space (3) occupied, possibly shared spaces
(0) a lot of unused area, (1) a lot of space, (2) little space (3) occupied, possibly shared spaces
The area we need for rooms and outdoor places means the area that is sealed, the building material that is needed, and most often the room that needs to be heated. If we use the rooms here, possibly sublet them or share them with others (e.g. co-working spaces), we take big steps towards sustainability. Especially in the course of home office, the shrinking of company space is not a step backwards, but a progress.
0.00