We help conserve resources: Taking the lead in green

Tchibo presents an absolutely unprecedented phenomenon: a weekly range that revolves entirely around saving energy and conserving resources. Stefan Dierks, a Senior Manager in the Corporate Responsibility department, explains the rationale behind the ‘green’ range.

Why is Tchibo running ‘Green Week’?

Stefan Dierks: Protecting our climate and resources is very important in securing a future worth living in. Each one of us can do their part. Our “We help conserve resources: taking the lead in green” lets our customers make a contribution to protecting our climate and resources using the products and services on offer - and save money in the process.

What exactly do Tchibo’s efforts consist of?

Stefan Dierks: Protecting the environment is one focus of our efforts and has been for years. Some examples: all of our sites and shops in Germany are powered exclusively with electricity from renewable sources. And the ‘LOTOS’ project is designed to lower transport-related CO2 emissions by 30% (vs. 2006) by the year 2015.

To send an additional signal, Tchibo is also shouldering the GOGREEN surcharge for all packages shipped between August 10^th and 18^th, 2010. In this way, we offset the CO₂ emissions associated with the shipment.

Where can customers find more information about Tchibo’s efforts?

Stefan Dierks: For more comprehensive information, our complete Sustainability Report 2009 is posted at www.tchibo-sustainability.com.

What does Tchibo have to offer beyond LED lamps and water-saving showerheads?

Stefan Dierks: The week’s motto is “We help conserve resources!” and we are offering other ‘helpers’ beyond the featured Non Food products – like energy-saving advice. We are also selling a ‘green’ cell phone from Nokia’s Greenheart series. The casing is made from recycled paper, and certain chemicals are avoided in its production.

Tchibo has also added some travel options to its range. We call this product ‘Conscientious Travel’, because social aspects are an important consideration. Here, too, we have published a separate catalogue, with destinations chosen primarily for sustainability reasons: for example, a hotel in Austria that has won awards for its efforts. Or a tour of Sicily on foot or by bicycle, instead of by rental car! We also underscore the fact that customers can choose to compensate for the CO₂ emitted in their air travel by making a donation to Atmosfair e.V., which funds accredited climate-protection projects.