Energy
Switching to a ‘real’ green electricity provider
1
(0) no special tariff, (1) eco from the conventional provider, (2) eco from the local provider (3) with a pure green electricity provider
(0) no special tariff, (1) eco from the conventional provider, (2) eco from the local provider (3) with a pure green electricity provider
Your country has most likely real green electricity providers, as they purchase or implement the appropriate capacities of green electricity for each customer. The other electricity providers only offer an electricity mix. The share of green electricity is sold more expensively as an eco-tariff to some customers, while the other customers theoretically only receive the shares of gas, coal, etc.
http://www.imodeler.info/ro?key=CF8Gsu47BnYHLi5NHUWXKVA
0.44
Energy-saving devices
2
(0) outdated devices, (1) with old energy-saving seal, (2) with up-to-date and (3) with the latest best value
(0) outdated devices, (1) with old energy-saving seal, (2) with up-to-date and (3) with the latest best value
It is always a consideration whether the further use of an older device does not require less energy or water than the production of a new, energy-efficient device. Therefore, the energy requirement along the entire product life cycle (from production to use to disposal) must be considered.
Sometimes someone needs a different device and can't afford a new one - then a used device from someone who has bought a new, more economical device, of course, also makes sense. With some devices, the top values are only achieved with large quantities, i.e. washing machines with a lot of capacity. It is to see whether the top values also apply with lower filling quantities, for example for single households.
0.23
LED lamps
3
(0) for none at all, (1) for older energy-saving lamps, (2) for largely LED, (3) for complete LED lighting
(0) for none at all, (1) for older energy-saving lamps, (2) for largely LED, (3) for complete LED lighting
LED 'light bulbs' are now available for really all lamps, even with pleasantly warm light colors.
0.23
Minimising streaming
1
(0) for streaming of everything (data, television), (1) for a lot of streaming, (2) for rare streaming, (3) for no streaming at all
(0) for streaming of everything (data, television), (1) for a lot of streaming, (2) for rare streaming, (3) for no streaming at all
Streaming can hardly be stopped. It is convenient if all data is automatically backed up in the cloud and can be accessed from anywhere, and it is equally convenient if all shipments can be viewed not only at a certain time, but 'on demand'. It can also be argued that computers no longer need such large hard drives and CDs or BlueRays no longer need to be produced.
In the end, however, streaming all over the world means a considerable energy demand and the infrastructures for transmission towers devour space and raw materials and they probably also cause harmful radiation. One solution is therefore to give up comfort a bit and perhaps also go more into nature instead of squatting in front of the screen. In detail, there is still the possibility to download something more at home with fiber optic, than on the go with older mobile networks.
0.39
PV on suitable places
1
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) all suitable areas
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) all suitable areas
We have to use all suitable areas for photovoltaics (PV), as the variants on open spaces restrict nature and agriculture. A trend is PV on stilts, so that it can still be gardened or cultivated underneath. But that costs building material. Photovoltaics has become amazingly inexpensive today thanks to cheap panels from China. Unfortunately, there is hardly any money to make from the feed into the power grid, currently about 8 cents per kWh in Germany. Therefore, PV should always be combined with its own electricity storage (own step, see below) so that as much electricity as possible is consumed by yourself. This then saves approx. 25 to 35 cents per kWh (depending on your tariff), which we would otherwise have to pay to the electricity provider. In this way, your own PV system, adapted to your own electricity consumption, pays off after just a few years. If you have a car, you should take into account its consumption (even if it is not yet an electric car). Then the savings are much bigger. The banks like to give loans for PV, quite often it is also being subsidized. In addition, there are also providers who take over the costs and virtually rent the roof area and offer discounted electricity in return. Such providers then form so-called virtual power plants with other houses and their batteries. For such a dependency, you should inform yourself well about what is best for you.
1.10
Energy storage
1
(0) not at all, (1) a small storage for one day, (2) a storage for more than one day, (3) a storage also for e-car charging or as a virtual power plant
(0) not at all, (1) a small storage for one day, (2) a storage for more than one day, (3) a storage also for e-car charging or as a virtual power plant
An electricity storage system primarily helps to maximize the yield of the PV system if the electricity is not fed into the grid for little money, but comes out of the battery in the evening and then allows the full electricity price to be saved.
Another advantage may be that some batteries work as an island system in the event of a power outage.
The already mentioned virtual power plants then access your battery from the outside and make the electricity available virtually in the neighborhood and compensate you for it. In addition, power grids are stabilized and even with little wind and no sun, we can consume renewable energies.
Note on lithium: Like many other raw materials, lithium is often problematic during mining. However, the life cycle assessment must take into account that we can recycle lithium for hundreds of years. In the basement, older lithium batteries from the automotive industry could also come to a second life later or, alternatively, sodium batteries that require more space.
0.66
Motion detector
2
(0) none, (1) less than half, (2) more than half, (3) everywhere
(0) none, (1) less than half, (2) more than half, (3) everywhere
Motion detectors make sense in all rooms including outdoor areas, where we potentially let the light burn for too long, for example in the hallway, basement, garage, etc. Of course, it is important that the light does not stay on for too long.
0.16
Avoidance of stand-by times
1
(0) not at all, (1) for some devices, (2) for most, (3) for all
(0) not at all, (1) for some devices, (2) for most, (3) for all
Standby power consumption is often reminded and extrapolated. For example, if a TV consumes 5 watts in standby, that is 120 watt hours (Wh) per day, i.e. about one eighth of a kilowatt hour, which costs about 35 cents. So hardly anyone will get up from the sofa for 5 cents a day and press the switch on the TV, or turn off the WLAN router at night, or shut down the computer. Or is it? And how many watt hours could be saved daily in all households? Would this consideration influence your actions?
0.16
Let the light burn unnecessarily
2
(0) happens constantly, (1) happens frequently, (2) happens rarely, (3) never happens
(0) happens constantly, (1) happens frequently, (2) happens rarely, (3) never happens
Modern lamps require little electricity, and yet it is worthwhile not to let them burn unnecessarily, for example when we are not in the room for a long time.
0.08
Renunciation of extreme power consumers
2
(0) have many, (1) have more than two, (2) have one, two (3) have no
(0) have many, (1) have more than two, (2) have one, two (3) have no
Apart from the fact that every device can have a high power consumption, a refrigerator is not regularly defrosted, the door seal is leaking, the washing machine is driven with too high temperatures and spin numbers, etc., there are still some unnecessary things that consume a lot of electricity:
Tumble dryer, sauna, dehumidifier, pond pumps, aquarium heaters, terrace heaters, etc.
The easiest way is to see to what extent you deviate from the average consumption in Germany and then think about what it is. If you are charging an electric car at home, you should see what can be attributed to it (either the car offers this evaluation or you use a separate electricity meter for this).
0.39
Housing, Buildings
Moderate living space
1
(0) huge ones (1) normal ones (2) smaller ones (3) shared ones
(0) huge ones (1) normal ones (2) smaller ones (3) shared ones
The area that we need to live means the area that is sealed, the building material that is needed, and the space that needs to be heated - and all this against the background of social justice. If you offer an apartment, a holiday house, or a hotel room and additional rooms smaller versions can be a smart choice.
2.11
Insulation
1
(0) more 140kWh/m2a, (1) down to 70, (2) to 15, and (3) for less than 15 kWh/m2a
(0) more 140kWh/m2a, (1) down to 70, (2) to 15, and (3) for less than 15 kWh/m2a
Thermal insulation is extremely important. Investing here means saving energy and costs. The argument that building will then become too expensive must be clearly put into perspective. One way, of course, is to have to insulate smaller living spaces. The other to become generally more efficient when building. Then ecological building materials will also become affordable. Old houses that can no longer be sensibly insulated are perhaps worth so much more as a new building that financing is not a problem. (Note: the figures are for Germany)
1.17
Saving water (showers)
1
(0) long, hot and frequent shower, (1) shorter shower, (2) shorter with water saving showerhead, (3) shorter, with water saving showerhead and colder
(0) long, hot and frequent shower, (1) shorter shower, (2) shorter with water saving showerhead, (3) shorter, with water saving showerhead and colder
Long and hot showers mean water and energy consumption and ultimately high costs. The other effects are even more impressive in the network - or did you know that long showering can be responsible for refugees and the quality of life in Germany?
http://www.imodeler.info/ro? key=Ceju1XNHCFZBJc2MpbAOl5Q
We simply take a Spartaste when flushing the toilet for granted.
0.71
Solar thermal energy
2
(0) not at all, (1) small system, (2) for hot water, (3) for hot water and support of heating
(0) not at all, (1) small system, (2) for hot water, (3) for hot water and support of heating
Solar thermal energy makes it possible to heat water over part of the roof area most of the year and then use it for hot water or even to support heating.
It is quite inexpensive in the actual purchase - only pipes have to be laid and the heat for the hot water or heating must be transferred via a heat exchanger. Since solar thermal energy works mainly in sunshine, it is often suggested to install PV modules on the same surface and to electrically heat water over them. The yield in kW is higher with solar thermal energy, but the installation of PV is easier.
0.66
Lowered living room temperature (without mold)
2
(0) over 20 degrees, (1) 19-20, (2) 18, (3) 17
(0) over 20 degrees, (1) 19-20, (2) 18, (3) 17
In most living rooms and bedrooms it is too warm in winter - we walk around in a T-shirt instead of putting on thick sweaters and sweaters. The energy-saving potential is considerable. When lowering the temperature, attention must be paid to the indoor climate and the possible risk of mold formation. This depends above all on the humidity.
0.55
Intelligent ventilation
3
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the times in the heating season
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the times in the heating season
Intelligent ventilation does not mean too late and not too long. It is too late when we get tired when the air is used up, get a headache and the humidity becomes too high. It is too long when the air has already been replaced and is cool, but we also ventilate the materials (walls, furniture) even longer.
Heat ultimately means that things or air vibrate. When the air is exchanged, but the objects and walls are still vibrating, the fresh air is quickly heated. Even if the walls get cold, mold can form on them and we need expensive heating energy to make everything vibrate again.
By the way, CO2 measuring devices help to ventilate in time and not for too long. However, these should not be a useless gadget, but perhaps used for practice one after the other in the rooms and gladly lent. A nice game is the competition, how good the sense of the people in the room is to ventilate in time and not too long.
0.23
Mobility
Charging stations for electric cars
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) for all guests/employees
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) for all guests/employees
If you do not have a garage or courtyard entrance with your own socket, you are dependent on charging options in public space and at the workplace. However, the charging options, which were initially underutilized, must first be there, but then people switch to electric cars with a time delay. Providing guests and employees with enough charging stations here is a real competitive advantage.
2.60
Waiver of SUV or similar as a company car
1
(0) large SUV, bus, (1) extremely economical large-capacity vehicles, (2) middle class, (3) small and Compact car
(0) large SUV, bus, (1) extremely economical large-capacity vehicles, (2) middle class, (3) small and Compact car
A premium SUV can weigh well over 2.5 tons and consumes more than twice as economical vehicles. Van, buses are similar - but sometimes have an authorization, for example as then actually used 7-seaters or for regular transports. For rare transports, there should be rental cars nearby or trailers. There is a global trend towards SUVs. These unconsciously give us the feeling of robustness, of getting through. They reinforce the so-called attribution or distinction need. We think we are the great car. At the same time, however, the same applies: Small cars are not necessarily more economical than larger cars - a Renault ZOE apparently consumes more than a Tesla Model Y. But larger cars consume more raw materials in the end. There is the expression SUV shame when you behave selfishly recklessly towards future generations through SUVs, comparable to flight shame.
0.42
Bicycle shelters
2
(0) not at all, (1) for less than 50%, (2) for more than 50%, (3) all can store their bicycles
(0) not at all, (1) for less than 50%, (2) for more than 50%, (3) all can store their bicycles
What has recently been a successful model in some countries and cities is still a problem in Germany: to give cyclists priority over car traffic. The willingness to ride a bike, even in bad weather, is higher than ever. E-cargo bicycles make it possible to at least do without the second car. A guest business can do a lot from a safe bicycle shelter with charging possibility to rental bicycles.
0.41
Garbage
Separate garbage consistently
2
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
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.
Hospitality businesses and events can place separating waste bins with information signs everywhere. In general, it is also possible that a sign indicates that the cleaners take over the separation for the guests. But better, the guests can do that.
0.65
Recycled paper
2
(0) never, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) never, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
Non-recycled paper is often cheaper, but means cutting of forests, contamination of water during production and a high energy requirement.
Recycled paper for toilet paper, writing paper, packaging, envelopes, wrapping paper, etc. should be a matter of course today. But we have to pay attention to it and choose it.
Recycled paper is also snow-white, but it should then not be bleached with chlorine but oxygen. A note on the menu can make you proud and contribute to corporate identity.
1.23
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. So the guests are welcome to ask if they need a paper version of the invoice.
0.61
Reusable
2
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) often, (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
Land use
Insect-friendly flowering plants
1
(0) not at all, (1) in some places, (2) in many places, (3) in all places and possibly also on the go
(0) not at all, (1) in some places, (2) in many places, (3) in all places and possibly also on the go
It is hard to believe that the future of our diet depends on the use of pesticides and their influence on insects that have to pollinate our plants. Many pollinators are threatened with extinction and in addition to the purchase of organic, we can offer these insects flowers on our areas. In fact, some plants are neither bee-nor bird-friendly. On the other hand, fruit trees and most vegetables are already great opportunities to promote bees, bumblebees, etc. At the flower meadows there are one- and multi-year-olds.
0.64
Renunciation of road salt
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) always
Road salt is convenient and safe, but a considerable burden for pets, the trees and the surface water. Replacing this with split means more effort, but it's worth it.
0.24
Waiver of weed killers
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) always
Sidewalks can be kept mechanically or by flames weed-free or the herb can also grow sometimes. The beds can be kept mechanically herb-free or laid out from the outset in such a way that herb does not matter. Pesticides are one of the main causes of species extinction and water pollution.
0.24
Social
Crafts from the region
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) mostly, (3) always
This is about living and working in the region, about strengthening the community. The birdhouse from a social workshop or the PV system from the electrician on site (if he has further training). The award criteria of the municipalities must of course be legally secure.
If the work is good, a discreet advertising sign can also draw attention to the craft business in return.
1.06
Fair trade products
1
(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
Citizens' meeting (clubs, fire brigade, squares)
2
(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
Social department stores
1
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) support a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
(0) not at all, (1) promote some, (2) support a lot, (3) maximum each measured by what is basically conceivable.
Social department stores are usually organized as a private sector or as an association. A company can support them with material and financial resources.
0.10
Cultural promotion
2
(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
Clothes
Recycled cotton
1
(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
2
(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
Cleaning Products
Organic cleaning agents
1
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Organic cleaning agents can be found in all supermarkets and drugstores. An essential feature is biodegradability and, of course, the vegetable raw materials as an alternative to petroleum-based raw materials.
Even if conventional cleaning agents are classified as safe, organic cleaning agents are certainly safer and are less harmful to health and also burden the sewage treatment plants less.
0.44
Other Consumption
Used or long-lived furniture
2
(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
Waiver of leaf vacuum cleaners and blowers
2
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Leaf vacuums and blowsers are even worse than the idea of mowing small lawns with a large lawn mowing tractor at all and then for hours. Boys with toys. The leaf vacuums and blowers emit noise and ultrafine particles and harm the soil organisms more than rakes or brooms.
0.11
Used, long-used devices
2
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Many devices from vacuum cleaners to cordless screwdrivers to TVs are amazingly inexpensive today. Relying on valuable devices that last a long time, or even buying used devices, helps to save raw materials and energy.
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
Avoid returns in online trading
2
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Returns have become a big problem - many returns are simply burned because the logistics are more expensive than the goods. Especially with clothing, we should research for detailed size specifications so that the clothing also fits. Simply ordering three sizes and of course sending two back is a waste of energy and resources. But other products would not have to be returned if we researched better beforehand whether they meet our expectations.
0.32
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
Governance
Renunciation of fireworks and firecrackers
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Firecrackers and fireworks are a problem in every respect: for the animal world, the environment and the people who produce them. The ultrafine particles pollution is horrendous. And all this only because people (mostly men) hope for attention and admiration about this.
0.25