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Tesla to acquire EU eco-label for minimizing environmental footprint

US Electric Vehicle Factory Near Berlin Granted Environmental Certificate and Unveils Green Commitments, but Faces Scrutiny from Environmental Activists

Tesla set to decrease ecological footprint with acquisition of EU environmental certification
Tesla set to decrease ecological footprint with acquisition of EU environmental certification

Tesla to acquire EU eco-label for minimizing environmental footprint

The Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg, Tesla's only car factory in Europe, opened its doors in 2022. Located in the heart of Brandenburg, the factory employs around 11,000 employees and produces approximately 5,000 cars per week, equating to around 250,000 cars per year.

In 2024, the factory's direct energy consumption was around 419,503 megawatt hours. Of this, electricity accounted for approximately 234,603 megawatt hours, while natural gas accounted for approximately 172,539 megawatt hours. The factory's emission of greenhouse gases was around 39,667 tonnes of CO2 in the same year.

Tesla's commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to increase solar energy production at the Greenheide factory. The amount of photovoltaic solar modules will increase to 15 megawatt peak in 2025. The company also aims to save natural gas by reducing process heating water through waste heat.

In an effort to increase transparency and improve environmental performance, Tesla has received the EMAS seal, a long-term environmental management system. However, concerns have been raised by organisations such as the Association for Nature and Landscape in Brandenburg, the Ecological Democratic Party (ÖDP), and Steffen Schorcht, a spokesman for the Association. They fear that the certification may weaken the already weak administrative control at Tesla, rather than improve it.

Brandenburg's Minister of the Environment, Hanka Mittelstaedt, views Tesla as a role model and calls it a "lighthouse" for sustainable manufacturing. More than 40 companies in Brandenburg have the EMAS certificate, making it a significant step towards a greener future for the region.

In its environmental report, Tesla documents the consumption of resources and emissions, sets goals, and aims to increase transparency. Thierig, a representative from Tesla, emphasised the company's commitment to sustainability, stating, "We are committed to minimising our environmental impact and continuously improving our processes."

As Tesla continues to grow and innovate, its Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg remains a key player in the transition towards a more sustainable future. The factory's commitment to renewable energy, transparency, and continuous improvement sets a high standard for other manufacturers to follow.

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