Sustainability for Startups: Building a Responsible and Future-Proof Business:
In this course, Anne Jacobs will introduce you to the fascinating world of sustainability for startups. We will look at the basic concepts and principles and explore why it is crucial for companies, especially startups, to act sustainably.
The course starts with an introduction to the concept of sustainability and explains what exactly it means. We will learn about the different dimensions of sustainability and understand how they can impact startups. We will also look at the difference between ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and sustainability and discuss the importance of transparent communication.
Another important aspect we will cover is the phenomenon of greenwashing. We will learn how to recognise and avoid greenwashing to ensure that your startup is actually sustainable and not just appearing to be.
Do you need more information about transfer and sustainability at RPTU? Visit our transfer and innovation homepage.
Video 1: Sustainability for Startups
You will find a chapter overview at the bottom of the screen.
Video 2: Sustainable positioning
You will find a chapter overview at the bottom of the screen.
Video 3: Sustainability strategy
You will find a chapter overview at the bottom of the screen.
Content
Portals and Overview Pages on Sustainability
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Climate Protection (BMWK):
One of the main tasks of the BMWK is to improve the framework conditions for startups and to promote the establishment and development of innovative companies. This includes measures to strengthen the startup climate, promote business financing, and improve access to capital for startups. The ministry is committed to reducing bureaucratic hurdles and facilitating business startups.
https://www.bmwk.de/Navigation/DE/Themen/themen.html?cl2Categories_LeadKeyword=nachhaltigkeit
Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety, and Consumer Protection (BMUV):
One of the main tasks of the BMUV is to promote innovative solutions and technologies in the environmental and climate sector. The ministry supports startups engaged in environmental protection, renewable energy, resource efficiency, circular economy, and sustainable technologies. It offers various funding programs and financial support for startups developing eco-friendly and sustainable innovations.
German Energy Agency (dena):
dena also organizes platforms and events to promote exchanges between startups, established companies, and investors. These include startup competitions, conferences, and networking events. Through these activities, startups gain visibility and have opportunities to collaborate and develop partnerships.
https://www.dena.de/startseite/
StartGreen:
StartGreen is where the green startup community meets. The network hosts the largest collection of startups, investors, and startup supporters in the Cleantech and Green Economy sectors. The platform is open to all organizations in the green startup ecosystem, allowing users to create a free profile or search for potential partners.
Sustainability Council:
As an advisory body, the Sustainability Council focuses primarily on developing long-term strategies and concepts for sustainable development. These strategies may have implications for startups and their contribution to sustainability. The council may also publish information or recommendations relevant to startups on its website.
https://www.nachhaltigkeitsrat.de/?cn-reloaded=1
The Impact Hub:
Impact Hub Munich is part of a global network of innovation centers and coworking spaces aimed at supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and socially-oriented businesses. The organization promotes social and environmental change and offers resources, networks, and programs for entrepreneurs.
Additional Portals:
European Commission:
The European Commission is the executive body of the European Union (EU), consisting of representatives from EU member states. It is responsible for implementing EU policies, developing proposals for new laws and regulations, and monitoring compliance with EU legislation.
https://commission.europa.eu/index_de
German Environment Agency (UBA):
The German Environment Agency (UBA) is the federal authority responsible for environmental protection in Germany. As a specialized agency of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, and Nuclear Safety, it undertakes various tasks in environmental protection and sustainability.
UBA supports startups and businesses in the areas of environmental protection and sustainability through:
📍Consultation and information
📍Funding programs
📍Monitoring and research
📍Networks and cooperation
B.A.U.M. Network for Sustainable Business:
B.A.U.M. e.V. is a network of companies, institutions, and experts committed to sustainable development in business and society. B.A.U.M. also supports startups in the sustainability sector through various activities:
📍Consultation and coaching
📍Networking and exchange
📍Public relations and communication
📍Project funding