After highlighting our motivations and strategy in the previous two insights on sustainability, we are now focusing on the practical implementation and results of our efforts. As a reminder, as a small company, we are not major polluters, but we have the greatest impact as a catalyst, in line with our corporate purpose. Our coworking space allows us to promote dialogue and ideas that extend far beyond our own sphere of influence. Here is an insight into our commitment:
energy
A key component of our sustainability strategy is the continuous review and optimization of our energy consumption. We already use electricity from 100 percent renewable energy sources and heat our coworking space with district heating. The successful switch to LED lighting has not only reduced electricity consumption but also extended the service life of the light bulbs.
food
To minimize food waste, we order our catering in moderate quantities and pay attention to portion sizes. If there are any leftovers, we follow a "no food waste" strategy: we distribute leftover catering and leftovers from the community lunch to our guests or create new treats for the community from the leftovers.
By reducing meat dishes at the Community Lunch and using regional and seasonal products, we are helping to reduce our ecological footprint. At the same time, we are promoting a healthy and balanced diet. We also pay attention to labels that indicate sustainable production.
materials
Recycling stations in the coworking space help us give as many resources as possible a new lease of life. We further increase the cycle of use through our "repair instead of throw away" approach. The craftsmanship of our community and our team comes in very handy here. If something is still functional but no longer needed, we pass it on to people who will enjoy it, without making a profit.
One major task is the constant review of our officeand consumable supplies. We are always on the lookout for more sustainable versions of everything from dishwasher tablets and printer paper to toothbrushes.
We also provide our community with reusable takeaway boxes to reduce the amount of waste generated at lunchtime.
transportation
Without having to build up large inventories, we try to place fewer but larger and coordinated orders with our suppliers. This prevents unnecessary trips and saves CO2. Whenever possible, we even pick up orders on foot or by bicycle.
To keep transport routes as short as possible, we always consider local or regionalproducers/suppliers. This applies, for example, to our beverages such as beer.
awareness raising
We have launched information campaigns to raise awareness among our employees, guests, and coworkers about sustainable behavior and to encourage them to help. This involves the careful use of water and energy, the careful handling of materials and furniture, and behaviors such as commuting.
Future plans: The road ahead
By 2030, we aim to reduce our CO2 emissions and waste by 10%. This takes into account the fact that significantly more people are using zentroom than before and that each person generates additional emissions. According to our calculations, we generated around 23 tons of CO2 last year, most of which was attributable to our team's commuting.
Nevertheless, we want to achieve a reduction by continuously optimizing our processes and introducing further sustainable technologies. We plan to further expand our circular economy approaches in order to minimize resource consumption and reduce waste. This includes, in particular, further raising awareness of sustainable practices among our suppliers and partners. As a driving force, we want to continue to actively work with our community to jointly develop and implement sustainable solutions. By sharing best practice examples and promoting independent initiatives, we want to create a culture of sustainability.
Stay tuned for further updates and let's walk the path to a more sustainable future together. So if you have any ideas for us, be sure to share them.