How GLS implements sustainability
We attach great importance to the sustainable use of resources and are committed to the UN Global Compact and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals as defined by the UN. The sustainable conversion of the GLS Campus Berlin is a long-term project that we are continuously pursuing. Below more about what we have already implemented at GLS on the subject of sustainability:
IH International House Sustainability Seal
In 2023, GLS was awarded the IH Seal for Environmental Sustainability.
IH - International House World Organization - defined actions to be taken in order to protect the environment. GLS completed these action across 8 categories (among them biodiversity) and passed the audit.
What GLS already implements
1. We use clean electricity
We source 100% green electricity. All rooms on the GLS campus in Berlin - whether the seminar rooms of the GLS language school or the on-campus apartments or our Hotel Oderberger - are fully equipped with LED lamps.
All our websites are hosted on servers that run on 100% green electricity.
2. Smart heating
All heaters have smart thermostats and switch off automatically when the windows are open or the desired temperature has been reached.
We also have our own combined heat and power plant on our campus and use the waste heat from our heating system to produce electricity.
3. Own well for watering
There is an in-house well for watering the green areas (no filtered drinking water required), and we also collect rainwater in our own ditch, which is also used for watering.
In all hotel rooms and public areas there are signs on the water taps to use the resource sparingly.
4. Biodiversity
On our campus we have created extensive green areas. There are two herb gardens and fruit trees whose produce is used in the kitchens. A bee hotel, flower meadows, our own compost and bird houses provide habitat and shelter for insects and small animals.
5. Going paperless
The consistent digitization of processes in the front and back office helps to reduce paper consumption to a minimum. Where we do still need paper: we use only recycled paper.
What you can do
1. Travel sustainably
If you are traveling to Berlin from Europe, you can check if it is possible to reach Berlin by train. It usually takes more time, but it is much more climate friendly and sometimes even cheaper.
If you fly, use direct connections if possible. Furthermore, you can compensate the CO2 emissions of your flight with providers such as Atmosfair.
You can also compare several means of transport with each other - using a CO² comparison calculator.
2. Sustainable living in Berlin
In Berlin you can use public transportation and bicycles. Wherever you stay - in a homestay or an an apartment - be aware of your energy consumption. Turn off lights and use heaters or air conditioners only when you are present and do not turn them on full blast.
Watch your water consumption by not taking unnecessary long showers. When eating in a canteen or cafeteria, opt for the vegetarian or vegan menu if available.
Be mindful of waste separation. Avoid plastic by buying unpackaged food. It is good if you take a refillable water bottle and a lunch box with you. You can also save on cosmetics by avoiding travel sizes and using reusable containers or solid shampoo, shower gel and soap.
