Sustainability & Accessibility
Here you will find all the information you need on sustainability and accessibility.
Sustainability
The Freiburg Christmas Market is committed to organizing events in a sustainable and resource-efficient manner. In doing so, we take into account not only environmental considerations but also economic and social factors. We, Freiburg Wirtschaft Touristik und Messe GmbH & Co. KG, also give our guests and visitors the opportunity to do their part—for the environment and for our city’s identity as GREEN CITY FREIBURG.
Energy
Use of LED Lighting
An important step toward energy efficiency was the switch from incandescent bulbs to LED lighting. Between 2012 and 2017, all lighting at the Freiburg Christmas Market was gradually converted to LED bulbs. As a result, since the conversion, energy consumption for general lighting has been reduced from 26,358 kW to 7,022 kW per Christmas market season.
Time-controlled shutdown of non-essential light sources
A time-controlled system automatically shuts off non-essential light sources. For example, the Christmas tree lights and other light sources are turned off starting at 10 p.m. Since 2022, all Christmas lighting at the Christmas market has been turned on at 2 p.m. instead of 10 a.m.
100% Green Electricity
The Freiburg Christmas Market uses 100% electricity from renewable energy sources. We purchase this directly from the regional energy supplier Badenova. This green electricity is generated from solar, wind, and hydro power. In doing so, we also support the ongoing expansion of Badenova’s own green energy facilities throughout Germany.
Social Engagement at the Market
Our market is committed to social responsibility and fair trade practices.
Fair-trade handicrafts: We mainly offer handicrafts from Germany and Europe. The Fairtrade seal was verified and checked with exhibitors in 2024.
Social and charity stalls: At least 20 social organizations are represented at the Freiburg Christmas Market. On Advent Sundays, seven stalls run by social organizations are also set up in front of the new and old town halls. A fixture at the main market on Franziskanergasse for decades: UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund.
Waste reduction
Comprehensive measures have been taken to reduce waste at the Freiburg Christmas Market. To this end, a deposit system has been established for reusable tableware, china, and mulled wine glasses. The tableware is washed in five different mobile dishwashing units purchased specifically for the Christmas Market. Environmentally friendly detergents are used in these units. When disposable tableware is offered, it is biodegradable, made from materials such as corn or bamboo. The use of plastic straws is avoided, as is the use of aluminum foil and plastic wrap in the logistics area. There are separate waste collection points for exhibitors to separate waste into general waste and packaging waste. Plastic bags are not permitted.
Our guests can actively contribute to waste reduction by using the designated containers for waste disposal.
Catering: A Focus on Local Ingredients and Quality
We place great emphasis on high-quality standards in our food and beverage offerings. Stalls are allocated based on a points system that takes into account the type of certifications held and how they are implemented. Valid certifications, organic certification numbers, and a certificate of training from the health department must be presented.
Our food service program relies on direct sourcing from regional suppliers and works closely with local service providers to ensure fresh and sustainable products.
Accessibility
Accessibility: The Christmas market is designed to be as accessible as possible. One measure taken to achieve this was the replacement of standard cable bridges with low-profile, accessible bridges. In 2024, ten new accessible bar tables were purchased, which can be easily adjusted in height for the convenience of wheelchair users, for example. All measures are developed in close consultation with the City of Freiburg’s Disability Affairs Officer to continuously improve and expand accessibility. For people with severe disabilities, multiple disabilities, or those requiring care, a “Toilette für Alle” equipped with a height-adjustable recliner and ceiling lift is available on the event grounds. The location is clearly marked.
Sustainable Communication and Management
We are increasingly shifting toward paperless information distribution. By 2024, the number of printed flyers will have been reduced by at least 30% compared to the previous year and replaced by digital media such as our website, social media, and email newsletters.
FWTM, as the organizer, as well as our suppliers and service providers, adhere to DIN ISO 20121. This standard helps to plan and execute events in a more sustainable manner by taking ecological, social, and economic aspects into account.Sustainable Communication and Management