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Energy- and resource-efficient

Energie- und ressourceneffizientUse of modern technologies and methods to save energy and resources in the fields production of raw materials, manufacturing, transport and trade.

The criterion "energy- and resource-efficiency" includes many different aspects. In this context we differentiate two fields: First we examine the energy and resource efficiency throughout the production process, on the other hand it is a matter of whether individual products are energy- and resource-efficient or can make a contribution to this.

What is meant by energy and resource efficiency?

Energy-efficient

On the manufacturer side technologies and methods are developed and applied that have a low energy intensity, so spend as little energy as possible. Measures to optimize the use of energy in the production process are taken.

By means of energy controlling the energy consumption is monitored and evaluated continuously. From this measures to reduce energy consumption and to optimize the obtaining and consumption structures can be derived. For example, energy-saving measures of building stock - especially by thermal insulation and modern heating systems - cause a significant reduction of energy consumption.

Other areas of action are:

  • Combined heat and power generation using a cogeneration unit, compressed air, ventilation, coldness, cold, heat production, water heating, heat recovery
  • Energy-saving room lighting
  • Fuel alternatives in fleet management
  • Economic uses of renewable energy within the company (use of solar energy (photovoltaic, thermal solar systems), wind power, hydro power (wave and tidal energy), biomass, renewable raw materials)
  • Changes in the obtaining conditions with the operational energy carrier
  • Saving energy through energy-conscious user behavior

On the product side the criterion "energy-efficient" applies if it is a product with low energy consumption or if the product can help to reduce consumption. So it is mostly electrical/electronic devices, be it household or kitchen appliances, TV, video and audio equipment, home office or office equipment, etc.

So, how can be seen whether a product is energy-efficient?

For household appliances and consumer electronics devices the EU-wide energy consumption label (EU label) will help. Through a color scale (green to red) the different energy efficiency classes provide information about power consumption. The environmental label ”Blue Angel” is awarded to devices that are particularly ergonomic and of low noise, have an optimized energy consumption and low pollutant emissions.

In the European Union the ENERGY STAR label marks office equipment meeting certain minimum standards for energy efficiency. The TCO-Label is awarded to information technology equipment based inter alia on the following criteria: low energy consumption, environmental compatibility and recyclability. Products which clearly meet the current state of the art with respect to safety, ergonomics and ecology are provided with the “TÜV ECO-Kreis”. The European Ecolabel (euro flower) considers environmental criteria throughout the entire lifecycle in the evaluation of products and services.

Resource-efficient

Rapid population growth and economic development raise the consumption of resources continuously. The increasing proliferation of consumer-intensive lifestyles reinforces this effect. Therefore the conscious use of resources is in demand. From our point of view there are three connecting factors:

  • Technologies to reduce the use of raw materials in industry and agriculture
  • More efficient use of resources through innovative methods
  • Consistent recycling


Disclaimer
Please note that the English version of the criterion “Energy- and resource-efficient” is only a translation of the German criterion “Energy- and resource-efficient”. The translation has been made to the best of the translator’s knowledge and belief. The German version of the criterion “Energy- and resource-efficient” always prevail shall in case of doubt.

 

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