Megatrend: Climate change
What solutions are there to counteract advancing climate change?
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Our planet is at a turning point: due to the negative impact of human activity on our climate, we must develop sustainable solutions to prevent an impending crisis and severe consequences. Climate protection measures, climate strategies, and increased awareness are key priorities. But what does this actually mean?
On the one hand, we must all recognise that global warming has already led to changes in the climate and that we must take action today. On the other hand, we must prepare for expected future changes in a way that minimises the negative effects and allows us to harness new opportunities — the keyword here is climate adaptation.
“As the Wilo Group, we follow the call of various organizations such as the Global Compact and commit ourselves to defining science-based emission targets.”
How can awareness of climate change be strengthened?
Educational programs, integrating the topic into curricula, and media debates can raise climate awareness and motivate people to take action both individually and collectively. Around the world, various government institutions and non-governmental organizations have launched initiatives that sharpen climate change awareness and promote concrete measures. One example is the United Nations’ SDG Action Days. These events aim to make the Sustainable Development Goals tangible through various activities worldwide, raising awareness and motivating people. The SDG Action Days place special emphasis on education and the importance of partnerships for sustainable solutions to global challenges. They also highlight the role of communities and local stakeholders in implementing the SDGs. During various events, workshops, and interactive sessions, participants can exchange best practices, build networks, and develop joint solutions. Furthermore, these days serve as a platform for governments, NGOs, companies, and citizens. This international commitment exemplifies collective responsibility. Such global cooperation for a sustainable future offers great potential for developing solutions that can be implemented worldwide.
Living climate protection, taking responsibility
Political measures alone are not enough. Companies also play a crucial role. They not only contribute significantly to global CO2 emissions but also possess the resources and innovative strength needed to drive sustainable change. The ecological and economic benefits of climate-friendly business models have been proven many times over.
True sustainability has now become an economic factor that can provide competitive advantages. Wilo and other companies are already engaged in initiatives and projects that support climate protection and set standards in their respective industries. These include investments in renewable energy, developing sustainable products, and reducing their own carbon footprint.
As role models and bridges between consumers, policymakers, and other societal actors, companies can use their reach and influence through cooperation and alliances with NGOs, educational institutions, and each other to raise awareness for climate protection across society. For a comprehensive, cross-societal response to climate change, the commitment of economic actors is indispensable.
8 Climate Protection Measures and Approaches
Combating climate change requires a multifaceted approach:
Energy efficiency
Reforestation and Forest Conservation
Forests are not only habitats for numerous animal and plant species but also crucial carbon sinks. A global reforestation initiative could reduce the carbon content in the atmosphere. For example, the German federal government has defined climate policy principles and goals with its Climate Action Plan 2050 to implement the Paris Agreement. Communities that depend on forests benefit from their sustainable management through improved living conditions and economic opportunities. Additionally, forests play a vital role in the water cycle and help regulate local climate conditions.
Renewable Energies
Increased investments in renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower reduce dependence on fossil fuels. These energies are not only sustainable but also lead to long-term cost savings and lower greenhouse gas emissions. With technological advancements, renewable energies are becoming increasingly accessible and competitive. The integration of storage solutions improves the reliability of renewable energy systems. Regional energy grids can continue to benefit from diversifying energy sources, leading to greater supply security.
Sustainable Agriculture
A shift towards more environmentally friendly farming practices protects biodiversity, as sustainably managed soils regenerate better. Greenhouse gas and methane emissions are often lower in organic farming - also thanks to increased use of agroforestry systems and the protection of natural habitats. Sustainable agriculture leads to healthier food, improves farmers’ livelihoods, and simultaneously protects the ecosystem. Reducing the use of pesticides and herbicides also preserves groundwater quality. Innovative cultivation techniques, such as vertical farming and aquaponics, could further contribute to solving food shortages.
Research and Innovation
Continuous investment in research enables the development of new low-emission technologies that support the transition to a green economy. This includes advancing technologies for carbon capture, renewable energy sources, and sustainable materials. Research not only leads to technological breakthroughs but also helps identify more effective climate protection strategies. It also creates economic opportunities by fostering new industries and jobs. Through international research collaborations, resources can be used efficiently and solutions spread more rapidly.
Circular Economy
An economy based on recycling and reuse minimizes waste and promotes the efficient use of resources. Concepts like "Cradle to Cradle" play an important role in this approach. Circular economy helps conserve resources, reduce environmental impact, and simultaneously create new economic opportunities. Products are designed to be easily disassembled and recycled at the end of their lifecycle. Companies that apply circular economy principles can also benefit from stronger customer loyalty and an improved brand image.
International Cooperation
A coordinated international approach, supported by agreements, partnerships, and joint research, is essential to address global challenges. Cooperation enables the exchange of best practices, technology transfer, and shared financing mechanisms. International bodies such as the United Nations provide platforms for countries to define common goals and strategies to combat climate change. It is crucial that the Global North and Global South work together to find effective and equitable solutions.
Political Measures
With the Paris Climate Agreement of 2015, 195 parties to the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and the European Union aim to limit global warming to “well below” two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This has led, among other things, to the European Climate Law, which came into effect on July 29, 2021. The “Fit for 55” package makes the achievement of the EU climate target—a reduction of emissions by at least 55%—a legal obligation. To meet these goals, individual countries have adopted their own plans. For example, the German federal government has defined its climate policy principles and targets in the Climate Action Plan 2050.
Climate Protection in Companies
Companies worldwide are increasingly recognising their social responsibility in the fight against climate change. From revising their supply chains to implementing environmentally friendly production methods, many are required to pursue sustainable business practices and commit to climate protection. However, those who recognise the opportunities for innovative solutions within these responsibilities can secure genuine competitive advantages in the long term. Wilo leads the way with pioneering spirit and, as one of the “50 Sustainability and Climate Leaders,” works towards a green and sustainable future.
References
Wilopark in Dortmund, Germany
Wilopark in Dortmund is an outstanding example of sustainable site development. Spanning over 180,000 square meters, it combines ecological and economic principles in a modern working environment for around 2,000 employees. The innovative architecture with extensive glass surfaces promotes transparency and natural lighting, supported by an open energy concept. This enables an inclusive work culture and efficient collaboration.
The Wilo Group received the EcoVadis Platinum award in 2025 for its commitment to sustainability, notably excelling in the "Outstanding" category. This places Wilo among the top-rated companies worldwide. Wilopark brings together production, innovation, and administration in a diverse and welcoming environment that focuses on people and promotes sustainable practices.
The Central Bank in Dublin, Ireland
Green Wilo pumps contribute to the overall efficiency of the new headquarters of the Central Bank – from heating and cooling to chilled water supply and products for rainwater utilization. The campus is a green building, certified according to BREEAM, the world’s leading method for assessing sustainability. The bank itself set a series of sustainability goals for the building – one of the main requirements was to exclusively use highly efficient pumps with efficiency class IE4 to ensure compliance with BREEAM criteria. The Central Bank established several objectives for the building’s design, including ensuring ecological sustainability.
