For us, sustainability means using all resources - whether tangible or intangible - in such a way that they are also available for future generations. At Holtmann+ , we are aware of our responsibility to future generations and have been committed to sustainability issues long before they were widely discussed. We recognize that this can only be achieved by developing a comprehensive sustainability strategy and integrating it into all our business areas. Furthermore, not only the market and our customers, but also our partners, suppliers and employees demand such a focus.
As early as 2012, Holtmann invested intensively in the topic of sustainability and participated in the development of instruments. Since 2018, Holtmann has been climate-neutrally compensated (in Scope 1 & 2). In 2022, we firmly integrated "Sustainability+" into our corporate mission statement in order to permanently establish a more sustainable corporate culture that balances economic efficiency, social responsibility and environmental compatibility. For us, sustainability is not just compliance with legal requirements, but also a fundamental orientation and strategy of our company. It is an integral part of our entire value chain, our business model, and a driver of creativity and innovation. That is why we officially included sustainability as a focus topic in our corporate strategy in January 2023.
"It doesn't take much. It just takes the courage to take things in hand and move forward. To preserve beauty for future generations, I like to take responsibility. Transparency and clear objectives are key. Inform, participate and inspire - it will be worth it," says Jörg Zeißig, CEO of Holtmann+.
Our Sustainability Team
In order to address the diverse aspects, tasks and potential in the area of sustainability, we strengthened our sustainability team in the middle of last year. This team acts as a driver for change and actively helps shape a sustainable corporate culture. Our colleagues Laureen Pahl and Anna Volke are passionate about environmentally conscious action, climate-friendly business practices and social responsibility. Clear responsibilities within the team mean that not only can all internal sustainability issues be optimally addressed, but the growing demands of our customers can also be optimally served.
Our understanding of sustainability
For Holtmann+, sustainability means taking responsibility for our actions and their effects. This applies in particular to our internal understanding of sustainability and the management of sustainability within our company. Our activities are guided by the three pillars of sustainability: ecology, economy and social issues.
The dimensions of ecology, economy and social issues can be broken down as follows:
Ecology:
For us, ecology means much more than just climate neutrality. Wherever possible, we have replaced stretch film with transport boxes. We purchase 100 percent certified green electricity at all our sites, have electrified a large part of our vehicle fleet and cover the entire electricity requirements of our electric vehicles with our own photovoltaic system.
Economics:
In the economic dimension, we strive for a long-term sustainable positioning of the company. We do not only focus on quick profits, but also on stable relationships with customers and suppliers and a high level of innovation to meet the needs of our customers.
Social:
In the social area, people are the focus of attention at Holtmann+ . We align our internal processes and procedures with the needs of our customers and maintain cooperative relationships with our partners. We value our team highly and offer our employees a wide range of benefits such as job bikes, job tickets, train cards and the opportunity to work on the move. Flat hierarchies and regular breakfast meetings contribute to a positive working atmosphere. We are also actively involved in social organizations in our region, such as the Langenhagener Tafel or through corporate volunteering as part of the Langenhagen Social Day.
Our path to ISO 20121 certification
Tackling the climate crisis is a task for society as a whole, and one that has long since ceased to be a "nice-to-have" in our industry as well, but rather represents a decisive competitive factor. The sustainability requirements of event organizers and consumers in the LiveCom industry are constantly increasing. In order to meet these requirements and fulfill the needs of all stakeholders, a systematic approach, realized through an optimal management system, is essential. The ISO 20121 certification process covers all three pillars of sustainability: environmental protection, social impact and economic aspects. The certificate creates an internationally recognized standard and increases our credibility. Since sustainable commitment is based primarily on cooperation, we have decided to embark on the ISO certification journey in convoy.
ISO 20121 forms the basis for all our other sustainability projects. We not only want to act more sustainably, but also support our customers through meaningful workshops, formats and consulting.
Our Sustainability and CSR Manager, Laureen Pahl, emphasizes:
"ISO 20121 does not certify that we are already sustainable. It shows where we can improve. Our goal is to close these gaps step by step."
The path to ISO certification is characterized by constant learning, further development, stumbling, getting up and emerging stronger together. There is no perfect solution, no patent remedy. The goal is not just the certificate itself, but the beginning of continuous improvement and development. We want to share not only our successes, but also how we got there, to help others and create transparency. Our motivation is to credibly demonstrate how we live sustainability at Holtmann+ and inspire others with it.
Our carbon footprint
In the course of the baseline check and the associated GAP analysis, the company'scarbon footprint for 2022 was determined, which amounts to a total of 858.10 tCO2e for Scope 1 - Scope 3. Compared with previous calculations from 20151, a reduction in theCO2 footprint of Holtmann+ can be clearly seen. It should be emphasized that direct emissions (Scope 1) for the company's own vehicle fleet and stationary combustion in particular have been reduced by around 50% compared to 2015. In addition to awareness and a corresponding catalog of measures for a further reduction in emissions, Holtmann+ has decided to offset itsCO2 emissions and will support the Gold Standard certified solar energy project, initiated by Clean Solar Power, in India. The project saves 693,327 tCO2e annually.
Sustainability means opportunities
Sustainability means opportunities. It is the foundation of our actions, the basis of our operations and the core of our self-image. We rely on economically, socially and ecologically sustainable concepts. Innovation, creativity and fair partnerships are essential for us to operate in a sustainable manner. Holtmann+ creates experiences that not only strengthen customer relationships but also promote sustainable action. Sustainability is already embedded in our conception, and we analyze the ecological impact of every facet of our live communication to find more environmentally friendly alternatives and implement forward-looking projects.
Our Sustainability and CSR Manager, Anna Volke, emphasizes:
"A sustainable live communications format not only underscores our own sustainability efforts, but also those of our customers "
Whether modular components for maximum reusability, reduced construction and transport volumes or intelligent digital installations: At Holtmann+ , we are aware of our responsibility and are already developing more sustainable solutions and ideas today for the LiveCom market of tomorrow.
We walk the path of sustainability together.
In addition to continuously improving our own sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint and developing sustainable concepts and consulting services for our customers, we are committed to sharing our experience and insights in the industry and working together on projects, tools and standards. The challenges arising from the Paris Climate Agreement are shared by society as a whole and require joint efforts. That is why we are actively involved in various associations and committees to help develop uniform standards for the event and trade show industry. Sustainability is a cross-sectional task that must be taken into account along the entire value chain in order to bring about real change.
Our participation in various committees and associations includes:
- NetZeroCarbonEvents (Chair of a WorkStream Smart Production and Waste Management, member of the WorkStream Measurement).
- IFES - Co-Chair Sustainability Committee, Executive Board Member Strategy
- AUMA - Working Group Member
- Fwd. Board Sustainability
- UFI (Association Steering Group, Sustainability Working Group, Jury Member of Sustainability Award, NZCE-TaskForce)
- DIN ISO: Subject matter expert for standardization & terminology and amendment of ISO 20121
We are proud of our participation on these boards and associations as they help us advance the sustainability agenda and effect positive change in our industry.
We are pleased to be able to join our partners and customers on the path to a more sustainable event industry and to help shape important milestones along the way.