Planet

True Respect

In the Planet field of action, we address selected environmental aspects of our business activities. Protecting the planet and the conscious use of resources are guiding principles that shape our actions and are incorporated into our decision-making processes.

On this page, we provide information about our participation in the ZDHC Foundation’s Roadmap to Zero program, our approach to packaging, aspects related to a sustainably designed headquarters, as well as our cooperation with myclimate Deutschland GmbH.

The statements refer in each case to the specifically described processes, materials or locations.

Production

The responsible handling of chemicals is a central component of our production processes. The aim is to systematically reduce potential risks to people and the environment within the supply chain.

Clear requirements for the finished product serve as the basis, in particular our Restricted Substances List (RSL), which restricts the use of certain chemical substances.

In addition, we address chemical-related requirements that already begin in earlier stages of production. In this context, we have been a member of the ZDHC Foundation (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) since the third quarter of 2022 and have been active as a Signatory Brand since August 2024. The ZDHC programs serve as a guide for the further development of our internal processes in handling chemicals.

The ZDHC MRSL (Manufacturing Restricted Substances List) relates to the intended use of chemical substances in the manufacturing of materials, components and trims and thus complements product-related requirements such as the RSL. The tools provided by ZDHC support step-by-step approaches toward alignment with the MRSL, for example through structured data collection and process evaluation.

Our progress within the ZDHC programs is accompanied by regular reviews conducted by external bodies. We understand participation in the Roadmap to Zero as a continuous development process in dialogue with our suppliers.

Packaging

In the area of packaging, we address the selection and further development of shipping and product packaging. Since 2021, we have been using paper-based shipping packaging for our online shop. These consist of recycled paper and, depending on the version, contain a proportion of grass fibers. The adhesive tape used is also based on paper material.

In connection with packaging, we are working on possibilities to reduce the use of plastic-based materials. Among other things, we examine the use of alternative materials as well as the use of recycled materials, provided this is technically and functionally feasible. The aim is to continuously develop packaging solutions further and adapt them to changing requirements.

Sustainable headquarter

We understand sustainability as a comprehensive approach that also includes our own location and everyday office life. The aim is to continuously develop operational processes and take potential environmental impacts into account.

At the beginning of 2020, we moved into our headquarters in Schwäbisch Hall. For this location, we source electricity from renewable energy sources. In addition, lighting has been fully converted to LED technology. In connection with the relocation, a reduction in electricity consumption was observed.

The headquarters is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. For employees who use buses and trains, we offer a subsidy for monthly tickets. In addition, since July 2024 we have offered a company bike leasing program. Our partner in this is JobRad. The program enables employees to use bicycles or e-bikes within this model.

We also focus on measures for more resource-efficient office operations, for example through the use of selected office materials and the use of water dispensers with reusable glass bottles. Ecosia is set as the default search engine on work devices; according to its own information, its revenues are invested in environmental and reforestation projects. Fairtrade-certified coffee is provided at the headquarters. The vending machines are supplied by a regional provider. Our environmental guidelines form the internal framework for environmentally conscious behavior in everyday work.

They serve as guidance and support for employees to consider ecological aspects in daily decisions at the location. The guidelines are part of our internal policies and complement our Code of Ethics as well as other internal requirements

Climate-related measures

The handling of climate-relevant emissions is part of the further development of our business and logistics processes. In doing so, we deal with various approaches to the recording, reduction and classification of emissions in selected areas.

For the online shop, we have been working with the Deutsche Post DHL GoGreen program since 2021. According to the service provider, this involves compensation mechanisms in which transport-related emissions are offset through investments in internationally recognized climate protection projects.

In the area of supplying stores and wholesale customers, we use various logistics partners. According to the current assessment, deliveries can be handled in certain areas by incorporating corresponding programs. In addition, our logistics providers implement measures such as route optimization or the use of alternative drive technologies.

Furthermore, we continuously review possibilities for further reducing transport-related emissions, including the deliberate avoidance of air freight where this is logistically feasible.

For compensation measures related to our own vehicle fleet, we work with myClimate Deutschland GmbH.