Concrete measures at workstations and in study spaces

Fridges, printers, kettles, etc. – where does it make sense to share these devices to ensure optimum use? Perhaps the total number of devices can be reduced or new purchases made unnecessary.

The energy efficiency class is a good guide value when buying new devices. Corresponding EU labels can also aid decision-making. In addition to the energy labels, certifications like the Blue Angel and TCO are also recommended.

Freezers in kitchens should be defrosted once or twice a year as layers of ice increase electricity consumption. Kettles and coffee machines should be descaled regularly.

Thinking about taking the lift? Taking the stairs saves energy and is better for your health – as long as you don’t have heavy or awkward items to transport.

The production of paper from fresh fibres is very energy-intensive and consumes numerous raw materials. It is therefore advisable to use recycled paper products – ideally those with the Blue Angel eco-label. Recycled paper not only saves wood, but also reduces water consumption by 78%, energy requirements by 68% and CO₂ emissions by 15%. Recycled paper is already used in the HHU's in-house printing shop, and at the beginning of 2025, the Rectorate also decided to switch all office paper to recycled paper.

Double-sided printing (duplex printing) and toner or ink saving mode help to conserve resources. In addition to double-sided printing, there are other ways to reduce paper consumption. Misprints can be reused as notepaper or for internal copies, provided this does not violate data protection laws. Many work processes can now be carried out entirely digitally, which further reduces paper consumption.

Diet has a major impact on the environment and climate. Seasonal and regional products avoid long transport routes and promote resource-efficient production. Compared to animal-based foods, plant-based foods cause significantly less CO₂ and require less land and water. People who eat a vegetarian diet can reduce their diet-related greenhouse gas emissions in Germany by around 30%, while a vegan diet can reduce them by up to 70%. A meat-free alternative is available every day in the HHU canteen.

Disposable products such as ballpoint pens contribute to waste and consume valuable raw materials. Writing instruments with replaceable refills or refillable pens, such as fountain pens with ink converters, are recommended. Unvarnished pencils made from certified wood or recycled materials are also an environmentally friendly choice.
When ordering from Lyreco, products from the Sustainable Selection range with the Planet, People at Work and Community labels should be given preference.

The HHU Central Purchasing Department has produced a guide to sustainable procurement with tips for everyday working life and quality seals for guidance. HHU members can find the guide here (DE).

Switching from cars to public transport or rail saves significant amounts of CO₂: while cars emit an average of around 162 g of CO₂ equivalent per passenger kilometre, trains emit only around 46 g. If a car is essential, carpooling can be arranged or switching to an electric vehicle can be considered. Economical driving and measures to reduce fuel consumption also contribute to environmental protection.

Air travel should also be avoided wherever possible. Domestic flights generate an average of 271 g CO₂ equivalent per passenger kilometre, almost six times as much as a train journey. The HHU has therefore stipulated that air travel within a radius of 500 km is generally not permitted. Unavoidable flights must be offset via the HHU Climate Protection Fund. More information is available at HHU – Sustainable Business Travel.

Instead of bottled drinks, tap water can be used or tea can be freshly prepared. Large teapots with strainers or thermos flasks are particularly practical, as the water only needs to be boiled once, which is more energy-efficient. Tap water is available in all kitchenettes and sanitary facilities at HHU in drinking water quality and can be used without hesitation to fill drinking bottles.

Coffee capsules generate a considerable amount of waste due to their elaborate packaging. A more sustainable option is to use a fully automatic coffee machine or a classic filter coffee maker with organic and Fairtrade coffee. This not only avoids waste, but also supports social standards in cultivation. Incidentally, HHU has been certified as a Fairtrade University since 2019.

According to the Federal Environment Agency, around a third of all food is wasted. Food sharing in the office can counteract this trend, promote team spirit and inspire a more conscious approach to food.

Many meetings can be held digitally without any problems. This saves travel, energy and time, which is good for the environment and productivity.

Proper waste separation is an important contribution to resource conservation. HHU is currently expanding its waste separation system on campus. HHU's Waste ABC provides guidance on the proper disposal of paper, glass, plastic, laboratory waste and electronic waste on campus. Further information is available on the HCSD website.

In addition to Google, there are sustainable alternatives such as Ecosia, which plants trees with search queries. This means that everyday internet use can make a small contribution to environmental protection.

Sustainability works best when everyone gets involved. Short notes on printers or light switches, information posters or regular reminders help to embed sustainable behaviour in everyday life. Assigning small responsibilities in the office, such as for lighting, waste separation or plant care, can also promote collective commitment and increase your own handprint.