Sustainability is a central pillar of our core business
Based on the vision "Ruhrverband - the best water for people and nature today and in the future", a mission "Holistic water management for the Ruhr: efficient - sustainable - climate-neutral" and corporate principles were formulated that serve as a guideline for the Ruhrverband and all those who work for it in their daily activities. In these corporate principles and the "RV 2030" corporate strategy based on them, the topic of sustainability is one of five fields of action.
In its corporate strategy, Ruhrverband has defined corporate goals in the area of action "We act sustainably" in the areas of energy neutrality, reducing GHG emissions, increasing climate protection performance, increasing climate resilience, resource and environmental protection and strengthening its commitment to the labour market.
The other areas of action in the corporate strategy also include aspects that contribute to sustainability in its ecological, economic and social dimensions. The Ruhrverband aligns its strategy with the needs of its cooperative members and handles the contributions they pay economically. The constant endeavour to achieve financial stability also contributes to affordable water prices and wastewater charges in the long term. In the interests of holistic water management, the business areas of sewer network operation and watercourse maintenance, among others, are being promoted.
In order to create an environment in which employees enjoy working, the "We are a Ruhrverband" action area has formulated principles such as respectful interaction, fair pay, recognition of performance, family-friendly working conditions, active health management and occupational safety.
Safeguarding the water supply and the continuous improvement of water quality are further objectives that characterise the basic understanding of work at Ruhrverband and are therefore also reflected in the corporate strategy.
In addition to being dealt with in the operational business, these topics are further developed through the work of interdisciplinary working groups and teams (including the Sustainability Reporting Working Group, Climate Neutrality Working Group and Energy Team).
Key standards on which Ruhrverband bases its sustainability activities include
- Reporting in accordance with the German Sustainability Code
- Greenhouse gas accounting in accordance with the International Panel on Climate Change and DIN 14064-1
- Energy management system in accordance with DIN 50001, without certification
- "Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes" (PEFC), certified
- Technical safety management in accordance with DWA-M 1002 and DWA-M 1000, certified
Sustainable commitment of the Ruhrverband
Environmental and climate protection
In the context of environmental and climate protection, we are committed to protecting species, reducing GHG emissions and disposing of waste correctly, among other things.
Renewable energies
Whether photovoltaic systems, power plants at reservoirs or energy generation from sewage gas - we are involved in the use of renewable energy sources.
Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is a top priority at Ruhrverband. Our energy management system is certified in accordance with DIN 50001.
Research projects
Find out more about our current and successfully completed research projects.
Climate strategy
Climate change is also being felt in the Ruhre catchment area. As part of our climate strategy, we are aiming to achieve greenhouse gas neutrality by 2030.
