Climate action
We are working consistently to improve our ecological footprint. What we do:
- The Westermann Gruppe is certified in accordance with DIN ISO 50001 as part of an energy management system. This defines and implements a continuous improvement process with regard to energy and resource consumption.
- We are committed to controlled forest management and use paper that is certified according to FSC and PEFC, the best-known systems for sustainable forest management, in order to preserve intact forests for the next generation. We regularly check the use of recycled paper for our educational media. They must meet the high requirements for use in schools - such as tear resistance, colour brilliance and writability - and at the same time should not make our products more expensive for our customers. For example, we mainly use recycled paper in some areas such as workbooks but unfortunately, we have not yet found a comprehensive solution. We are continuing to work on this.
- By optimising print run planning and reducing the amount of paper used in business transactions and internal communication, we save paper wherever possible.
- We are saving energy on heating by using building management systems, and electricity by switching our light sources to LED. The change of light source is about to be finalised.
- Our printing plant in Zwickau is certified with the strict "Blue Angel" environmental seal.
- We print almost exclusively in Germany. At our main site in Braunschweig, the Westermann Gruppe's publishing, printing and distribution facilities are located in the immediate vicinity. Thanks to the short transport routes, we reduce CO2 emissions.
- Waste from the production process is recycled without exception and either used for subsequent orders or fed into the recycling process.
- Save the bees! The environment is also important to us on a small scale: our print shop Westermann Druck Zwickau has four bee colonies on its premises. A large part of the printing company's open space is left to the bees as an unmown meadow.