Circular economy

Resources

WASTE MANAGEMENT

The responsible use of resources is an important aspect of our business operations. Waste, too, is a raw material, which is why we take the issue of the circular economy seriously. Minimizing the use of packaging, utilizing recycled products, and consistently sorting waste are all part of our strategy in this area. In doing so, we focus on reducing or preventing waste generation. We consistently ensure that Ernsting’s family uses recycled products for packaging. Our suppliers are subject to specific guidelines regarding the use of outer packaging. This includes, among other things, the material used for plastic bags and the exclusion of oversized boxes relative to the size of the items.

Resources

Responsible Use of Water

Many of Ernsting’s family’s company buildings feature green roofs. Green roofs have a high capacity for storing rainwater. This allows a large portion of precipitation to be absorbed and temporarily stored, even during heavy rainfall—something that sealed or built-up areas would otherwise prevent. After a delay, we return the stored rainwater directly to the groundwater via swale systems and infiltration basins. We intend to leverage these benefits of green roofs in future projects as well and are therefore systematically evaluating their implementation in new construction projects.

Resources

Handling of packaging materials

At Ernsting's family, we focus on the conscious and gradual reduction of packaging materials. We generally sell our fashion items unpackaged in our stores - the items are usually only fitted with a hangtag. For laundry items as well as for hardware such as decorative items or toys, however, protective packaging elements such as cartons, foil, or polystyrene cannot always be fully avoided for transport safety reasons. For online shipping, we use recyclable plastic bags certified with the state-recognized "Blue Angel" eco-label.

In our stores, we also offer our customers reusable carrier bags with a high recycled content and encourage customers to bring their own bags for shopping. Wherever packaging waste occurs, it must be properly collected and recycled. Improper disposal can cause environmental damage or negatively affect the health of living beings. To keep valuable resources in the cycle, we are happy to support you with correct waste separation.

Paper and cardboard (e.g. hang tags, boxes, banderoles)

Germany: Paper bin

Austria: Waste paper collection

Packaging should be as clean and dry as possible. Heavily soiled paper packaging should be disposed of as general waste.
Plastic packaging (e.g. polythene bags, cling film, clips, hangers):

Germany: Yellow bin / yellow bag,

Austria: Yellow bin / yellow bag.

Packaging made from a combination of materials must be separated. Disposal regulations may vary from region to region and must be strictly observed.