Impact Economics

 

For most businesses, having positive social and environmental impact isn’t high up on the list of priorities. But change is coming! Here we take a look at innovative economic approaches with proven, positive, sustainable impact.

Interview: Sustainable Digitisation Needs Cooperative Lobbying from Bits and Bäume

Last October, thousands of people gathered again at the Bits and Bäume Conference to discuss sustainability and digitization. We spoke with Friederike Rohde (IÖW) on developments and successes of the conference and important next steps for sustainable digitisation.

The Global Environmental E-Waste Problem: What Can You Do About It?

E-waste is the world's fastest growing waste mountain. But there are ways to stop this development.

Do Fungal Circuit Boards Hold the Key for E-Waste Recycling?

Mushrooms are the forests' great recyclers, but can they also help reduce electronic waste?

You Won’t Believe How Much Carbon Clickbait Websites Produce!

A new study reveals the full environmental and economic impact of clickbait websites.

Greenwashing in Online Fashion: Consumers are Being Deceived by Sustainability Claims

A new comprehensive database supports consumers in their search for sustainable products. Only 14 per cent of products with sustainability labels meet the research team's high credibility criteria.

Climate Pledges by Companies are not Ambitious Enough

Since the Paris Climate Conference, hundreds of companies have published ‘Net Zero Pledges’ in which they show how they intend to contribute to climate protection. But they are all not far-reaching enough, as the Climate Pledge Rating shows.

Screenshot Digital Reset

Digital Reset – New Report Calls for Fundamental Realignment of Digital Technologies

Digitalization, as it currently stands, exacerbates ecological and social crises. But digital technologies also offer the opportunity to put all sectors on a sustainable course. The report "Digital Reset" by TU Berlin and the Einstein Center Digital Future, shows how this can be achieved.

Can Decommissioned Mines Become Green Power Generators?

A new report supports the idea that underground mines can be transformed into energy storage facilities, adding the possibility of on-demand, carbon-free power to energy grids. Written by Sarah Derouin of AUG's Eos Magazine

DIBIChain: Putting a Product’s Entire Life Cycle on the Blockchain

A life cycle assessment reveals a product's ecological impact from before it is produced, through its use, and until its disposal. The DIBIChain is designed to make this process easier and more transparent.