City centres have long been characterised by high levels of consumption. They now face major changes due to online retailing, the aftermath of COVID19 and the climate crisis. The UBA coordinated EU Interreg project “NiCE – from niche to centre”, started in May 2023. The project aims to take advantage of these changes and make city centres more attractive again by offering sustainable options. read more
Sustainable lifestyles: From the niche to the city centres
UBA study: This is how Germany can achieve its 2030 climate targets
Germany can still achieve its climate targets by 2030. This is the conclusion of a new study by the German Environment Agency (UBA). To do so, Germany would need, among other things, more rail traffic, a reform of the motor vehicle tax and restrictions on fossil-fuel heating. In addition, all emissions would have to be priced and charged to the polluter. read more
Connectivity with consequences: 13 steps to counter software obsolescence
The German Environment Agency (UBA) recommends measures to increase the lifespan of technological devices and gives advice on how consumers can protect themselves. read more
Plastic manufacturers to pay into Single-Use Plastic Fund in future
The new Single-Use Plastic Fund Act requires manufacturers to pay the cost of waste from single-use plastic products generated in streets or parks. For this, companies will pay a levy into the Single-Use Plastics Fund, which is managed by the German Environment Agency (UBA) and administered via the digital platform DIVID. read more
Hazard radar for iron, copper and bauxite supply chains
100 major copper, iron ore and bauxite (“aluminium ore”) mine sites worldwide have been assessed for their environmental hazard potentials. Results have been published in an interactive map with a number of filter functions. In particular, companies can use the map to analyse environmental risks along supply chains and to support their environmental due diligence. read more
Consumer protection: German Environment Agency participates in European screening for manipulative online shop practices
The European consumer protection network, with the first-ever participation of the German Environment Agency, revealed manipulative practices on 148 out of 399 online shops it screened. read more
German Ecodesign Award 2023: Federal Government competition renews offer of reward for ecological design
Designers, students and companies of any size and in any sector from anywhere in Europe have until 17 April 2023 to make an entry for the German Ecodesign Award. Wanted: innovative ideas and projects that are progressive and demonstrate exceptional design. This can include market-ready goods and services, conceptual work, also by students. Creativity knows no bounds here! read more
14 projects to be honoured with the German Ecodesign Award 2022
The 14 winners of the German Ecodesign Award once again display a wide range of forward-looking solutions to tackling the most diverse challenges. These solutions include intelligent lighting systems, a seasonal calendar for green electricity, precast foundations for wind turbines, a deposit chair as well as concepts for transforming the clothing industry and data-based rewetting of peatland. read more