Umwelt- und Klimaschutz

1&1 is taking responsibility


As a leading German telecommunications specialist, we see our role as building bridges to a positive, sustainable digital future.

Making digitalisation environmentally and climate friendly


We aim to conserve energy and resources as much as possible, to continuously increase our energy efficiency and to help to protect the environment and the climate.

Green electricity and the very latest energy management systems

One of the key levers for the reduction of our carbon emissions is the electricity used to run our networks. We focus on renewable energy sources. And where renewable energy sources are not yet being used – for example, when we share other networks – we offset this by means of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).

Thanks to our use of state-of-the-art energy management systems, we are able to track, control and optimise our energy efficiency continuously. Inside our office buildings, we almost exclusively use renewable energy too - for a sustainable and climate-neutral future.

Digitalisierung umwelt- und klimaschonend gestalten

Responsible handling of resources

Proper disposal of end devices
We take responsibility for the entire life cycle of our products. The proper disposal of old devices such as smartphones, routers and other end devices is a priority for us. This is the only way we can prevent harmful substances from being released into the environment. Moreover, we are working with recycling specialists to extend the useful life of old devices and conserve resources.

Efficient use of packaging materials
All of the processes in our logistics are designed for efficiency. This also applies to the use of materials. We use paper and cardboard with about 80% recycled content for our packaging and information materials. Always with the aim of further optimising the use of materials. We report on our use of packaging materials annually and transparently to LUCID, the internet platform provided by the Foundation for the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR).

Second life for returned end devices
If either a delivery of an end device has not been accepted or it has been returned within the scope of our 30-day satisfaction promise, it is given a second life. It goes without saying that we check all returns and make sure they are complete before officially offering them for sale again as attractive “refurbished devices”. This also applies to any included accessories such as headphones or adaptors.

Carbon neutral delivery
We also take responsibility when despatching our products: all 1&1 products are delivered carbon neutrally. We work with Germany’s leading carriers (DHL, GLS and Hermes) to ensure carbon-neutral delivery by avoiding and offsetting emissions.

It’s all about the triad: environmental, economic and social action
Operating sustainably on all levels is a fixed part of daily work at 1&1. As a successful company and driver of digital innovation, we also lead the way when it comes to sustainability. This means that as well as protecting the environment and climate, our philosophy also includes a distinct economic and social awareness.

Sustainability - our approach
Our social engagement