Sustainable initiatives
Sustainable initiatives
Klüh implements a consistent sustainability strategy in 2022
The complex issue of sustainability requires us to respond to the varied needs and expectations of market participants such as clients, employees and rating agencies and to comply with far-reaching new legal requirements in respect of reporting, Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, environmental protection and human rights. The multiservices provider has always taken its own corporate social responsibility (CSR) very seriously and sets high standards for itself and the entire value chain. Since 2022, as CSR has evolved into ESG (environmental, social, governance), Klüh has strengthened its focus on a qualitative and quantitative approach in order to track its performance in respect of the ESG criteria and document their development.
THOMAS KEßELER
Head of Sustainability
‘Sustainability is more than just a trend – it is an essential feature of corporate processes.’
Klüh has established a department dedicated to pursuing a structured sustainability path and implementing a consistent sustainability strategy. Structured sustainability management in the form of guidelines, sustainable corporate governance and specific targets and measures serve to implement Klüh’s sustainability strategy.
The sustainability strategy is based on four pillars. The first of these is the ‘market’ pillar aimed at safeguarding the company’s future viability. Resource-friendly value creation is supported by the ‘environment’ pillar. The ‘employee’ pillar offers protection and support. The fourth pillar, ‘society’, is a guarantee of social commitment. Klüh has drafted a Code of Conduct in which it makes a voluntary undertaking to comply with the rules it has defined for itself. This is based on the company’s guidelines and forms the basis for other rules and regulations.
RAINER SCHULTES
Head of Quality Management
‘The Klüh Group uses both quality management expertise and systems in support of sustainability.’
Strengthening the sustainability focus of quality management
There are many interfaces between quality management and sustainability. That is why the Quality Management department at Klüh has a large role to play in implementing the company’s sustainability strategy. In 2022, for example, Quality Management began using the international Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) to continuously improve the analysis and presentation of environmental and energy data. In Klüh’s sustainability reporting, electricity, energy, fuel, chemicals, water and waste data are categorised as Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.
At the request of its clients, Klüh participated in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) in mid-2022, achieving an above-average B rating in its first assessment.
For the 2022 business year, Klüh is reporting in accordance with:
- UN Global Compact
- UN Sustainable Development Goals
It is also reporting in accordance with:
- GRI, Global Reporting Initiative (most recent version)
From 2026, the company will report in accordance with:
- CSRD, Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive
In 2022, Klüh already recorded data in compliance with Germany’s new Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LKSG), a law regulating companies’ duty of care to prevent human rights abuses in supply chains. The law came into force on 1 January 2023 and applies directly to Klüh.
In 2022, with the support of a major corporate client, Klüh also initiated the provision of support for certifying buildings in accordance with the DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) standard.
Klüh satisfies standards of sustainability, safety and customer satisfaction
All Klüh divisions implement corresponding measures to achieve the company’s aims through the application of quality, health and environmental protection, energy and safety management systems. The company’s work processes are designed to be hazard-free and have a minimum impact on the environment. To this end, Klüh has introduced comprehensive management systems which are recertified at regular intervals. All Klüh’s divisions and branches have implemented the management systems and operate conscientiously in compliance with these standards.
Klüh companies are certified to:
DIN EN ISO 9001
DIN EN ISO 14001
DIN EN ISO 50001
DIN EN ISO 45001
SCC regulations
DIN 77200-1: 2017
DIN EN ISO 13549
Quality management
Environmental management
Energy management
Occupational health and safety management
Safety certificate for contractors
Requirements for security service providers
Basic requirements and recommendations for quality measuring systems (DigiClean®)
DIN EN ISO 9001
Quality management
DIN EN ISO 14001
Environmental management
DIN EN ISO 50001
Energy management
DIN EN ISO 45001
Occupational health and safety management
SCC regulations
Safety certificate for contractors
DIN 77200-1: 2017
Requirements for security service providers
DIN EN ISO 13549
Basic requirements and recommendations for quality measuring systems (DigiClean®)
Klüh also satisfied the requirements for hospital cleaning specified by:
DIN 13063:2021-09.
More sustainability in all divisions
With its sustainable and individual Cleaning, Clinic Service, Catering and Security concepts, Klüh provided optimal support to its clients in their sustainable transformation during 2022. In this way, the company not only improved the comfort, health, productivity and security of other people (employees, clients and patients) but also ensured a better total experience and helped others to achieve their sustainability targets.
More sustainability in all divisions
With its sustainable and individual Cleaning, Clinic Service, Catering and Security concepts, Klüh provided optimal support to its clients in their sustainable transformation during 2022. In this way, the company not only improved the comfort, health, productivity and security of other people (employees, clients and patients) but also ensured a better total experience and helped others to achieve their sustainability targets.
Improving the environmental footprint of Klüh’s Cleaning division
In 2022, Klüh Cleaning again contributed to reducing the environmental footprint of its clients by reducing emissions and optimising water consumption.
As the result of a sustainability workshop conducted with a major client, in which the carbon savings delivered by changing cleaning chemicals, technology and disposal were calculated and implemented, the Cleaning division was able to reduce the client’s carbon footprint by six tonnes each year. Klüh uses Ecolution cleaning products from Dr. Schnell to deliver the best sustainable cleaning results. Ecolution is climate-neutral, preserves resources in terms of raw material consumption, production, packaging and delivery and reduces carbon emissions in the manufacturing process. The highly concentrated Dr. Schnell products are applied using metering devices. The Deiss rubbish bags used are 100% climate-neutral.
For selected clients, Klüh also uses biotech cleaning products based on microorganisms which clean sustainably and result in low material, warehouse and logistics costs.
At another major client, ozone water cleaning units have been installed, making it possible to eliminate the use of cleaning chemicals entirely.
In 2022, Klüh Cleaning continued to use water-saving i-Mops, cutting the consumption of drinking water by several million litres.
The environmentally friendly osmosis process is used in glass cleaning operations for many clients. The water is demineralised in a special filter so that it can remove dirt particles without the addition of chemical cleaning agents.
The microfibre cloths and mop covers used by Klüh are also sustainable because they are made entirely from recycled materials.
The cleaning machines deployed use less electricity than comparable machines and need less water thanks to a treatment technology, making them quieter and more efficient.
For its laundry operations (for mop covers and cleaning cloths), Klüh relies on Schneidereit washing machines, which are equipped with an automatic weighing system. Laundry-relevant parameters are recorded to enable the precise metering of detergents and disinfectants. The disinfection process is documented seamlessly.
Klüh uses Sterisafe cleaning equipment from Kenter or cold fogging for the rapid and safe disinfection of entire rooms. It also continued to use mobile air purifiers to disinfect the ambient air.
The environmentally friendly osmosis process is used in glass cleaning operations for many clients. The water is demineralised in a special filter so that it can remove dirt particles without the addition of chemical cleaning agents.
The microfibre cloths and mop covers used by Klüh are also sustainable because they are made entirely from recycled materials.
The cleaning machines deployed use less electricity than comparable machines and need less water thanks to a treatment technology, making them quieter and more efficient.
For its laundry operations (for mop covers and cleaning cloths), Klüh relies on Schneidereit washing machines, which are equipped with an automatic weighing system. Laundry-relevant parameters are recorded to enable the precise metering of detergents and disinfectants. The disinfection process is documented seamlessly.
Klüh uses Sterisafe cleaning equipment from Kenter or cold fogging for the rapid and safe disinfection of entire rooms. It also continued to use mobile air purifiers to disinfect the ambient air.
Leadership thanks to sustainability and digitalisation
In 2022, the interaction of sustainability and digitalisation resulted in growth and climate-friendly business operations. Thanks to the innovative Klüh Eco System for Smart Services, which was developed by Klüh’s Center of Digital Excellence, it is possible to cut costs, increase quality and verifiably reduce CO2 emissions. One example of the capabilities of this system is Klüh’s proprietary DigiClean® tool, which is used in cleaning and disinfection operations. The tool maps and optimises the entire cleaning process. Activities are streamlined, making them more efficient and transparent. Klüh’s cleaning specialists have tablet computers giving them real-time access to the specification catalogue and check list. Ad hoc requests can be accessed and processed using the DigiService portal.
Resource-friendly processes from Clinic Service
In 2022, the challenge facing Klüh Clinic Service in the cleaning of hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centres, residential care homes and homes for the elderly was how to optimally support these institutions on their path to climate neutrality. Together with its suppliers, the entire Cleaning division is constantly working to develop resource-friendly processes and systems that are quantified, documented and transparent. At one university hospital, Klüh Clinic Service deploys two Ecobot cleaning robots from Gaussian Robotics. Thanks to their integrated water treatment system, these use up to three times less water for cleaning. They also operate entirely autonomously and are able to meter and refill products automatically.
Klüh’s caterers impress with many sustainable initiatives and a new consultancy service
The business year at Klüh’s Catering division was also characterised by many sustainable initiatives. One of the biggest steps was certainly the establishment of Keros Consult GmbH. The consulting portfolio of this new service company is aimed at sustainably improving catering processes in company canteens, hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centres, residential care homes and homes for the elderly, kindergartens, schools and commercial kitchens. Keros Consult uses a proprietary approach to support companies in reducing their energy costs, reducing consumption immediately without any need for investment.
Klüh seeks to encourage diners to reflect on their eating habits and choose climate-friendly dishes. Since 2022, the Klüh Catering app can be used to collect points for climate-friendly choices. The points can be exchanged for a surprise in the diner’s company canteen.
Klüh’s DigiSupply software solution additionally cuts material costs by around 10%. Moreover, diners have the option of choosing from a sustainable menu displaying information about CO2 emissions, water consumption, rainforest destruction and animal welfare. DigiSupply also integrates a score awarded by partner Eaternity, enabling the Klüh Catering team to see which products harbour health risks and which have health benefits when developing dishes.
Klüh seeks to encourage diners to reflect on their eating habits and choose climate-friendly dishes. Since 2022, the Klüh Catering app can be used to collect points for climate-friendly choices. The points can be exchanged for a surprise in the diner’s company canteen.
Klüh’s DigiSupply software solution additionally cuts material costs by around 10%. Moreover, diners have the option of choosing from a sustainable menu displaying information about CO2 emissions, water consumption, rainforest destruction and animal welfare. DigiSupply also integrates a score awarded by partner Eaternity, enabling the Klüh Catering team to see which products harbour health risks and which have health benefits when developing dishes.
The sustainable initiatives of Klüh Catering GmbH in 2022 included:
- Action weeks such as ‘Veganuary’ and ‘Planted’ in company canteens
- Product lines such as ‘I love green’, ‘Pflanzenkraft’ (Plant Power) and ‘Kraftquellen’ (Power Sources
- ‘Snack & Meet’ conference concept
- Use of organic foods
- Sustainable decorations for serving stations and tables in the dining area
- Support for a mixed orchard project in the Lower Rhine region
- Support for the European Chicken Commitment
- Daily campaigns such as honey campaigns in cooperation with regional start-ups
- Social campaigning and activities in support of socially inclusive projects
- Introduction of the Eaternity Score: traffic light system for sustainability showing values for the carbon footprint, water consumption and Vita Score of the dishes on Klüh Catering’s meal plans
- No-deposit multiuse packaging
- Digital waste management and collaboration in the United Against Waste initiative
- Kick-off at Essen University Hospital for an innovative green hospital; conversion of the meal plan in line with the planetary health diet; digital food waste management, etc.
Definition of sustainability targets at Klüh Security
Since the establishment of Klüh Security, sustainable aspects of its value culture have included customer centricity based on serious and sustainable security consulting, a willingness and ability to innovate, and the provision of security services that meet clients’ requirements and focus on the company’s responsibility to its employees.
In 2022, with the support of Klüh’s CSR representatives, sustainability targets were defined for Klüh Security and communicated across the company. These largely concern employee qualification, the sparing use of consumables and reduced energy consumption. To this end, the use of electric vehicles has been increased.
In this connection, it is also worth noting the sustainable idea of reusing Klüh Security’s high-quality workwear. The used clothing is quality-checked, cleaned and issued to new employees. This has led to long-term savings in the procurement of outerwear for new contracts.
In order to cut travel time and fuel consumption, many meetings in 2022 were held online.
Airport Service cuts fuel consumption
Airlines are required to ensure the greater efficiency and cut the fuel consumption of their aircraft and to take measures to reduce their carbon footprint. In 2022, DLG Personalservice GmbH – a core part of Klüh Airport Service – implemented a special sustainable initiative at Düsseldorf Airport by renting a truck with tail lift to serve as a mobile storeroom.
This cut the number of trips made to the main warehouse, reducing fuel consumption and working time. Loading and unloading was also made faster and more convenient thanks to the use of trolleys.
In 2022, the use of electric vehicles on the airport apron was trialled.
For aircraft cleaning, Klüh uses hand-held electrostatic fogging devices as an alternative to conventional mops and disinfectants to sanitise cargo and baggage holds. This approach ensures the uniform distribution of the disinfectant and saves time.
Signing of contract with EUREF AG
In 2022, in connection with the initiation of its structured sustainability path, Klüh Service Management GmbH signed a contract with EUREF AG. The planned relocation of some departments to the EUREF Campus in Düsseldorf in 2024 will put the company in the sustainable ‘place to be’. In this way, Klüh is not only sending a clear signal as an employer which aims to provide its employees with an innovative and sustainable workplace in an inspiring environment but is also joining a network of like-minded companies focused on creating a sustainable future for everyone.
Click here for a virtual tour of the EUREF Campus Düsseldorf:
Symbolic groundbreaking ceremony in Düsseldorf
Representatives of the companies that will operate at the new EUREF campus, the City of Düsseldorf, represented by its Mayor Dr Stephan Keller, and the State of NRW, represented by its Minister President Armin Laschet, take up the spades. Frank Theobald, Klüh’s Management Board Chairman, signed the contract with EUREF AG.
Signing of contract with EUREF AG
In 2022, in connection with the initiation of its structured sustainability path, Klüh Service Management GmbH signed a contract with EUREF AG. The planned relocation of some departments to the EUREF Campus in Düsseldorf in 2024 will put the company in the sustainable ‘place to be’. In this way, Klüh is not only sending a clear signal as an employer which aims to provide its employees with an innovative and sustainable workplace in an inspiring environment but is also joining a network of like-minded companies focused on creating a sustainable future for everyone.
Click here for a virtual tour of the EUREF Campus Düsseldorf:
Symbolic groundbreaking ceremony in Düsseldorf
Representatives of the companies that will operate at the new EUREF campus, the City of Düsseldorf, represented by its Mayor Dr Stephan Keller, and the State of NRW, represented by its Minister President Armin Laschet, take up the spades. Frank Theobald, Klüh’s Management Board Chairman, signed the contract with EUREF AG.
Responsibility for employees
Klüh uses extensive management systems to ensure the safety and health of its employees. The certified Klüh Academy also organises regular seminars on occupational health management.
In 2022, the Klüh Academy’s provision of an extensive training portfolio remained a priority.
The Klüh Security School prepared Klüh Security employees for their challenging tasks. Training and continuous development were provided in both classroom-based and e-learning formats. Klüh’s Security division has already received many awards for its digital training programs, in 2022 as well. For the sixth time in succession, Klüh Security was honoured by the ‘Gesellschaft für Pädagogik’ with the prestigious Comenius EduMedia Award for its e-learning program to prepare employees for the statutory exam in accordance with Germany’s Trade Regulation Code.
Klüh is a signatory to Germany’s corporate Diversity Charter and employs people from 122 nations. Integration is a living part of the company’s culture and diversity was again a key factor in Klüh’s success in 2022.
Social commitment in the region and beyond
For many decades, as well as taking responsibility for its employees, the environment and the market, Klüh has been demonstrating social commitment – the fourth pillar of its corporate sustainability strategy. An important aspect of this is the sponsorship of innovation in science and research by the Klüh Foundation, which was established in 1986.
The 2022 prize went to Professor Matthias Schneider, Professor for Internal Medicine and Rheumatology and Director of the Hiller Research Centre for Rheumatology at Düsseldorf University Hospital. Professor Schneider was honoured for his project researching systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is an autoimmune disease.
Klüh Foundation award ceremony 2022: (from left) Prof. Coordt von Mannstein (Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Klüh Foundation), Yasmin Klüh (Member of the Advisory Board of the Klüh Foundation), award winner Prof. Matthias Schneider, Hans-Joachim Driessen (Member of the Board of Directors of the Klüh Foundation), Düsseldorf‘s Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller, presenter Stefanie Kemp (Chief Transformation Officer at Sana Kliniken AG)
Klüh Foundation award ceremony 2022: (from left) Prof. Coordt von Mannstein (Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Klüh Foundation), Yasmin Klüh (Member of the Advisory Board of the Klüh Foundation), award winner Prof. Matthias Schneider, Hans-Joachim Driessen (Member of the Board of Directors of the Klüh Foundation), Düsseldorf‘s Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller, presenter Stefanie Kemp (Chief Transformation Officer at Sana Kliniken AG)
Social commitment in the region and beyond
For many decades, as well as taking responsibility for its employees, the environment and the market, Klüh has been demonstrating social commitment – the fourth pillar of its corporate sustainability strategy. An important aspect of this is the sponsorship of innovation in science and research by the Klüh Foundation, which was established in 1986.
The 2022 prize went to Professor Matthias Schneider, Professor for Internal Medicine and Rheumatology and Director of the Hiller Research Centre for Rheumatology at Düsseldorf University Hospital. Professor Schneider was honoured for his project researching systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is an autoimmune disease.
Donation handover by the ’Wir für Düsseldorf‘ initiative in the Klüh atrium
In 2022, the company’s owner Josef Klüh continued his commitment to ‘Wir in Düsseldorf’, the private initiative he established to help maintain the quality of life and address social issues in the region. Last year, it supported clubs and projects which work to improve the welfare of migrants. To enable the initiative to strengthen its support for charitable organisations looking after Ukrainian refugees, the annual donation total was doubled.
In collaboration with the Düsseldorf IHK (Chamber of Industry and Commerce), the City of Düsseldorf, Provinzial (an insurer), city utility companies and Telekom in Germany, Klüh is supporting the Pacemaker Initiative to foster digitalisation at schools and transform the culture of learning.
Klüh supports digitalisation at Düsseldorf schools.
Klüh Service Management GmbH
Am Wehrhahn 70 40211 Düsseldorf Germany