Focus on sustainability and the circular economy
A joint excursion to Mainz reveals inspiring business practices to students.
A three-day field trip to Mainz for our Ecology & Environmental Protection students and our master’s students in the integrated management systems and integrated management programs offered a wealth of insights into companies committed to sustainability. The field trip took place from May 22 to 24:
Day 1: Visit to Schnellecke
On Monday morning, the participants departed from the university in Zittau at 7:30 a.m. The first stop was a visit to Schnellecke. Schnellecke, known for its innovative logistics solutions, has developed an impressive approach to minimizing its environmental footprint. The company is increasingly focusing on environmentally friendly logistics practices to optimize resource use and reduce energy consumption.
One of Schnellecke’s key focuses is the efficient use of transportation. By implementing state-of-the-art route planning systems and maximizing vehicle capacity on their routes, the company has been able to significantly reduce fuel consumption. This not only leads to cost savings but also to a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions.
In addition, Schnellecke has taken steps to promote the use of renewable energy. The company has installed solar panels at its warehouses and logistics centers to generate a portion of its electricity needs from clean energy sources. This further minimizes its carbon footprint and contributes to climate protection.
Day 2: Tours at Werner & Merz and the Hoechst Industrial Park
After the tour at Schnellecke, the group headed to Mainz. On Tuesday, two companies were on the agenda. First, we visited Werner & Merz. Werner & Merz, a company with a clear focus on sustainability and environmental protection, showed the participants how these values are implemented in every aspect of its business. Everyone is surely familiar with the “Frosch” and “Erdal” brands.
A key focus for Werner & Merz is sustainability in the context of the circular economy. The company has developed a comprehensive strategy to fulfill its environmental responsibilities and promote sustainable practices. Werner & Merz has also established a comprehensive waste management program. Through the implementation of recycling measures—and particularly through the Recyclat initiative—Werner & Merz plays a pioneering role in the circular economy.
The students gained extensive insight into the various measures the company has taken to fulfill its environmental responsibilities.
The tour then continued to the Hoechst Industrial Park. The Hoechst Industrial Park, considered one of the largest and most diverse industrial sites in Europe, demonstrated to the students how the park can operate more effectively through the circular economy.
A highlight of the field trip was the visit to the wastewater treatment plant at the Hoechst Industrial Park. There, the participants gained insight into the treatment technologies used to purify wastewater. The facility operates according to strict environmental standards and ensures that the treated wastewater is safely discharged back into the environment.
Another focus at the Hoechst Industrial Park was an informative presentation on the integrated management system. This system serves to coordinate and optimize all aspects of environmental protection and sustainability within the park. By integrating environmental protection measures into all operational processes, the Hoechst Industrial Park strives to minimize its environmental impact and promote ecologically sustainable solutions.
Day 3: PIUS National Conference and Return Trip to Zittau
The third day of the field trip began with participation in the PIUS National Conference. Production-Integrated Environmental Protection (PIUS) increases resource efficiency and actively contributes to climate protection. At the same time, it can reduce costs in businesses and thereby strengthen competitiveness.
The conference examined the three megatrends of digitalization, transformation, and the green economy. Many other exciting topics, such as the water footprint, were discussed. The students had the opportunity to exchange ideas with experts and gain new insights.
After the conference, the group began their return trip to Zittau. The students returned home with many new insights and a broader understanding of sustainability and Environmental Management in practice.
Companies Are Committed to Sustainability and the Circular Economy
The companies visited demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and the circular economy. Schnellecke relies on environmentally friendly logistics solutions to minimize its ecological footprint. Werner & Merz is committed to sustainability in a variety of ways and has taken measures to reduce its ecological footprint. At the Hoechst Industrial Park, coupled production processes and an integrated management system play a central role.
The field trip offered students valuable insight into the practical application of sustainable business practices. The PIUS National Conference rounded out the program and facilitated a discussion on current challenges and innovative solutions in the field of Environmental Management.
Overall, the field trip to Mainz was a complete success and gave our students the opportunity to expand their knowledge and benefit from the experiences of the companies they visited. The impressions and insights gained will certainly contribute to future discussions on sustainability and Environmental Management during their studies.
A big thank you goes to the companies that made it possible for us to gain insights and to the bus company "Komm Mit" and our driver André, who took us safely and well from place to place.
2nd upper floor