Menu
by implementing its climate action Plan, the permanent Mission of Denmark aims to reduce its overall GHG emissions (from 2022 levels) by 40%
Actions to be implemented by 2030: 4
Actions to be implemented by 2030: 5
Actions to be implemented by 2030: 4
The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ sustainability strategy was launched on 26th November 2019. The MFAs’ vision is to become one of the most sustainable foreign services in the world.
This is a very ambitious goal, which includes not only a significant reduction of our carbon footprint, but also includes an aim to become one of the best public workplace in Denmark and in our Foreign Service and to ensure that sustainability guides our everyday choices at home as well as abroad.
The Permanent Mission of Denmark in Geneva is fully aligning itself with the strategy.
The Mission plans to aim for increased greening of the terrace at the Mission.
In 2019 the Permanent Mission of Denmark subscribed to Vitale Vert electricity and water (40%) by SIG. Vitale Vert electricity is sourced from 100% renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric, wind and solar power. The Mission has chosen this option in order to reduce carbon footprint, to contribute to sustainable energy production, and to support clean energy initiatives.
In 2023 a heating pump and solar panels were installed in the Ambassador’s residence in order to reduce carbon emissions.
The Mission is using low-energy consuming LED light bulb and motion sensors to automatically turn lights on and off. We are raising awareness among employees about responsible energypractices such as turning off lights, computers and printers when not in use, and adjusting heating temperatures. In order to remind employees about energy conservation practices, notices aimed at raising awareness are strategically placed at key locations. We aim to send periodic reminder to staff of the basic principles of “A sustainable day at work”.
When catering the Mission aims to use locally produced food which typically is cheaper, fresher and contains less additives or preservatives. Using locally produced food, our events supports the local economy by supporting the local producers and thereby local employment. We always provide vegetarian and vegan options and reduce food waste by using left-overs and by limiting the use of buffets –when possible.
In order to host sustainable events the Mission uses the MFA’s “checklist for a “sustainable event” taking into consideration the following:
• Food and drinks
• Handouts and decoration
• Transport and accommodation
• Waste and leftovers
• Paper
• Sustainable flowers/plants
• Attention signs regarding the focus of sustainability
• Avoid bottled water and using tap water instead.
Regarding drinking water, we have phased out the use of plastic bottles or water fountains with plastic containers, opting instead for tap water. As for coffee we have shifted away from using capsule coffee machines in favour of whole bean coffee.
In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental responsibility, the Mission has opted to purchase one fully electric car (2022) for the use of the HoM and one hybrid vehicle (2019) as the official Mission car. These mobility choices underline the Mission’s dedication in taken proactive steps in combatting climate change and embracing sustainable practices.
The Mission has purchased four electrical bikes for the convenient use of its employees when commuting to meetings. This initiative not only promotes a healthier climate but also facilitates a green transportation option.
The Mission follows the MFA’ sustainable travel rules taking the following Sustainable considerations before booking a travel:
1. Can it be handled virtually?
2. Can mutual purposes be integrated into the travel, to reduce future travels?
3. How many people need to be travelling? (minimize the number)
4. Can the final destination be reached by train (or bus) within 6 hours of travel time?
5. How early can the travel be planned and booked? (Early planning reduces costs).
The Mission always choose the most climate-friendly mode of transport (bus, train or car rather than flying) as long as additional costs in terms of time and expenses for the trip are reasonable.
We aim:
• To minimize paper waste, use your devices –phones tablet and PC’s –to take notes, pull up documents and give presentations on the TV screen
• To reduce incoming and outgoing mail – as much as possible should be emailed (scan incoming mail)
• To recycle IT equipment
• To use “share files” and cloud computing options when possible
• To use IT eco-friendly solutions
The Mission has implemented waste sorting practices, in line with the standards established in the canton of Geneva. To reduce paper consumption we have embraced paperless processes and meetings, favoring the use of digital tools. We use eco-friendly cleaning products.
2050Today’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions measurement methodology follows the GHG Protocol. The Protocol provides standards and guidance for organizations to measure and manage climate-warming emissions. It was created in 1998 through a partnership between the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).
According to the GHG Protocol, the distribution of emissions is done by scopes:
Scope 1 represents direct emissions linked to the consumption of fossil fuels.
Scope 2 represents indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heating and cooling consumed by the reporting company.
Scope 3 includes all other indirect emissions that occur in a company’s value chain (i.e. purchased good or services, business travel, employee commuting).
The 2050Today carbon footprint takes into account the reported emissions generated by the activities of the institution over one year and is divided by categories:
Energy and water
It takes into account the amount of the consumed electricity produced and purchased by the institution. The energy consumed to heat and/or cool the institution’s building area and the consumed water are included as well.
Mobility
It takes into consideration business travels and commuting (on a survey basis).
Food
The CO2 impact of food includes the catering of the institution and individual consumption (on a survey basis) during working hours.
Purchased goods
The perimeter of purchased goods is set to a list of new office equipment, new mobility equipment (vehicles) and construction materials.
Waste
The perimeter of the waste inventory is set to waste production from facilities and internal operations of the institution
It has to be noted that the collected data of the 2050Today members resulting in each carbon footprint are not yet fully standardized and might not be entirely complete. Data collection is being progressively harmonized and improved. Therefore, direct comparisons between tCO2 / employee among institutions – be it in general or per sector – are not yet possible nor relevant.
To ensure the reliability, the accuracy and a recurrent updating of the carbon footprint assessment, 2050Today is advised by an international Carbon Footprint Scientific Committee.
