Resource-conserving research operations

The HZDR attaches great importance to resource-conserving research operations in order to bring energy, water and material consumption in science to a sustainable level - without compromising the performance of the research center.

Energy efficiency and emission reduction

• The HZDR has set itself the goal of reducing its CO₂ emissions by 50 percent compared to the reference year 1995.
• Geothermal system in the modern entrance building: use of renewable geothermal energy for heating and cooling.
• Heat recovery and intelligent control technology further reduce energy requirements.
• Installation of photovoltaic systems for emission-free power generation directly on site to supply office buildings, laboratories and infrastructure.

Sustainable use of water

• Separation system for wastewater and rainwater: ensures responsible use of water and reduces the burden on the wastewater system.
• New concept for infiltration systems: rainwater is infiltrated in a targeted manner - taking into account the preservation of old, large trees worthy of protection.

Protecting and promoting biodiversity

• The HZDR has extensive forest and green areas on the Dresden-Rossendorf site, which provide a habitat for numerous plant and animal species.
• Ecological reports are prepared for all construction and infrastructure measures in order to minimize or compensate for interventions in existing ecosystems.
• The tree population is maintained through targeted replacement planting when tree felling is unavoidable - with native species appropriate to the location.

Sustainable forest management

• HZDR's wooded areas are managed sustainably according to forestry principles - this means: no clear-cutting, near-natural thinning, preservation of old wood islands and dead wood as habitats.
• In close cooperation with the Saxon Forestry Administration, the HZDR harmonizes the maintenance, protection and recreational functions of the forest.
• The forests on the site also serve climate adaptation by binding CO₂, regulating the microclimate and acting as wind and heat protection.

Transport and mobility concepts

• The HZDR actively promotes environmentally friendly travel for employees, guests and students, for example by providing a job ticket.
• The new cycle path along the B6, which leads directly to the Rossendorf campus, significantly improves the safe and climate-friendly accessibility of the center - especially for commuters from Dresden and the surrounding area.
• In combination with the expansion of modern bicycle parking spaces on campus, a sustainable infrastructure for cycling is being created.
• The aim is to reduce motorized private transport, lower CO₂ emissions and promote healthy forms of mobility.

The resource-conserving research operations at the HZDR show that cutting-edge research and sustainability are not a contradiction in terms. Sophisticated technology, efficient processes and the active involvement of employees make it possible to combine scientific excellence with environmental responsibility.