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Our sustainability strategy in the area of ecology

We are implementing measures to reduce our consumption of paper, energy, water and mobility.

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Our Goals

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Our Goals

We operate sustainably.

Goal 1: Implementing the "Paperless University" project
Goal 2: Strengthening sustainable building management at the university's locations, such as by optimizing heating, electricity, and water usage
Goal 3: Promoting sustainable mobility within the university
Goal 4: Enhancing environmental awareness among staff and students through guidelines and green events

CO2 balance

Share of greenhouse gas emissions by category, with the highest values for employee commuting (33.0%) and paper consumption (14.6%). Other categories include district heating, business travel, and various types of consumption.

CO2 balance

Our carbon footprint

Our carbon footprint from 2019 was a decisive factor in formulating our goals in the area of ecology. At our main location, we purchase electricity backed by certificates of origin from renewable energy sources. We use recycled paper for our printed materials. Nevertheless, we have set ourselves ambitious reduction targets for the coming years with regard to our consumption of paper, heat, electricity, water and fuel.

2,2 t

CO2 emissions per employee in 2019

5,2 kg

Paper consumption per student in 2019

Implemented measures, projects & achievements

More sustainable university administration

The following initiatives are an important step on our journey towards a more sustainable university administration. We are proud to make a contribution to environmental protection and to continuously improve our processes.

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Transformation to a paperless university

The digital welcome letter reduces our paper consumption.

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Introduction of digital signatures in university administration

Another step towards digitalisation and efficiency is the introduction of digital signatures in university administration. This technology enables us to sign documents quickly and securely without having to rely on paper and printer ink.

A woman is presenting at a whiteboard while two people in the background listen attentively. The whiteboard displays various diagrams and notes, representing a meeting or brainstorming session.

New brochure concept with digital and printed versions

To meet the needs of our users, we have implemented a new brochure concept. This approach reduces standard print runs because brochures are primarily made available digitally and are printed only upon request.

A man sits at a table, surrounded by plants, and looks over documents. A laptop is in front of him as he holds a pen in his hand.

Transition to recycled paper (Blue Angel certified)

For the standard paper products we purchase, we use only recycled paper that has been certified with the “Blue Angel” label.

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Introduction of the digital student ID

The digital ID replaces the physical plastic cards that have been issued to date. This allows our students to conveniently carry their ID on their mobile devices.

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Printer-free home offices

By not using office printers while working from home, the goal is to reduce work-related printing.

Promotion of sustainable mobility at the university

A woman is leaning against a car, holding a charger in her hand. In the background, solar panels are visible. She is wearing a light shirt and has a relaxed expression on her face.

Transition to hybrid company vehicles

Our company vehicles have been converted to hybrid powertrains. We track the actual impact on emissions using fuel, electricity, and mileage data.

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Introduction of the job ticket in the Rhine-Neckar Transport Association

To support our employees we have introduced the job ticket in the Rhine-Neckar transport association. Through this initiative, we are making it easier for our team members to travel to work comfortably and affordably by public transport.

A woman in an orange top is looking at a model of wind turbines on her desk while working on a laptop. There are also plans and a mug on the table.

Integration of sustainability into our travel policy

Sustainability is a core value of our organization, which is why we have integrated it into our travel policy. We now more thoroughly assess whether business trips are absolutely necessary or if alternatives such as online meetings can be utilized. Our travel policy stipulates that, whenever feasible, we should give priority to using public transportation for business trips.

Strengthening sustainable building management at university locations

These measures are an important step towards more sustainable and efficient energy use.

A man is sitting at a desk, working on a laptop while holding a model of a wind turbine in his hand. In the background, plants and a coffee cup are visible.

Employee awareness and sensitization for efficient heating

To promote mindful energy use, we recently conducted an employee awareness campaign focused on heating consumption and energy-saving practices. Through targeted training sessions and informative materials, we have enhanced understanding of the importance of efficient energy use within our organization.

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Optimization of heating system

As part of our energy-saving efforts, we have thoroughly reviewed and optimized our heating system. We have implemented specific measures to reduce heat consumption. The impact will be evaluated based on consumption data from before and after implementation.

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Adjustment of outdoor lighting controls

We have also revised the controls for our outdoor lighting, adjusting them to match specific times and environmental sensitivity. This measure allows us to save energy by ensuring that lighting is only activated when necessary.

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Optimization of server room cooling

We have implemented specific measures to reduce energy consumption. The impact will be evaluated based on consumption data from before and after implementation.

Modern, multi-story white buildings with large windows and a landscaped outdoor area. The architecture is simple and contemporary, surrounded by trees and a tranquil environment.

Efficient lighting in the stairwell at the Riedlingen Administrative Location

To improve energy efficiency, we have optimised the stairwell lighting at the Riedlingen site. We have also made the basement lighting autonomous and switched the escape lights to standby.

Enhancement of environmental awareness among employees and students

We are committed to environmental protection and sustainability. Recently, we conducted an employee awareness campaign on waste reduction and recycling. The focus was on efficient waste separation and providing additional yellow bags and containers to ensure optimal separation of different waste types.

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Greenmail for all postal shipments

As part of our efforts to reduce our ecological footprint, we have transitioned all postal shipments to Greenmail.

Jars of honey in various sizes, with golden lids and labels that read 'Bee Happy - Blossom Honey.' The jars are stacked on a table.

Reduction of promotional items and use of sustainable products

We have further reduced the use of promotional items, especially at events like the Christmas party. Employees can now choose their preferred goodies based on the event. When selecting gifts for employees, we take regional origin into account and - where available - recognized environmental certifications. We disclose the relevant criteria and proportions.

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Development of a green events guide

We have developed a guide for "Green Events". Our "Green Events" guide for events includes minimum criteria regarding travel, format, catering, and waste.

A person in protective gear is inspecting two beehives that are on a wooden platform. The beehive on the left is yellow with a honeycomb pattern, while the one on the right is red with a mushroom design.

Our own honey as a sustainable employee gift

Beehives at the university building

Since July 14, 2022, SRH Fernhochschule – The Distance Learning University has welcomed 80,000 diligent ambassadors of sustainability. Two managed beehives demonstrate our commitment to biodiversity.

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We have already implemented measures to reduce resource consumption. However, we are just at the beginning of an exciting journey. Our aim is to continuously improve and fulfill our responsibility to future generations.

Dominik Schärmer, Team Lead Infrastructure