Ecologically Shining for a Greener World
Our Commitment to Climate Protection
Our Eco Impact
Using Solar Energy to Create a Clean Light Source
Every ray of sunshine counts: In a time where the protection of our environment and the preservation of natural resources are of utmost importance, solar energy stands at the forefront of eco-friendly energy solutions. Harnessing solar energy provides a powerful, clean alternative to traditional, CO₂-emitting energy sources like coal and gas.
Learn here, through key metrics, why Sonnenglas® is environmentally friendly, how our product design and return service are geared towards sustainability, actively contributing to the protection of our planet - as the first solar lamp to be awarded the Blue Angel.
Modular System
Replace. Reduce. Reuse.
Resuability by design: Sonnenglas® stands out as more than just a solar-powered light – it is a modular system designed for sustainability and longevity. This modular approach offers several advantages.
Firstly, it reduces waste by allowing for targeted repairs rather than discarding the entire product. By replacing only the specific part that is broken or damaged, we minimize our environmental impact and contribute to a circular economy. With its innovative design, every part of Sonnenglas® can be easily exchanged.
ensuring that in the event of a broken component, the entire product does not need to be replaced.
Secondly, the modular system promotes cost-effectiveness. Instead of purchasing an entirely new Sonnenglas®,you can simply acquire the spare part you need, making repairs more affordable and accessible. This not only saves money but also encourages sustainable consumption patterns.
The First Solar Lamp With the Blue Angel
Green Hightech with Blue Angel: Sonnenglas® has been awarded the Blue Angel, Germany’s prestigious eco-label! Even more exciting, we are the first solar lamp ever to meet the stringent criteria of the Blue Angel. The category for solar lamps has existed since 2012, and we are proud to be the first manufacturer to achieve this honor.
The Blue Angel considers:
- Product design and concept: Durability, quality, recyclability, including warranty conditions.
- Materials: Freedom from harmful substances and environmental compatibility.
- Performance: Light duration and brightness.
- Transparency: Honest communication about the product.
Upgrade & Repurpose
More than Recycling
An important part of our corporate responsibility measures is our Upgrade & Repurpose program. Our goal is to have a positive impact on the world we live in. It is our inherent responsibility to minimize waste and consider the ecological and social consequences of our actions.
This includes offering a return service for old solar modules, with the option to purchase a new solar module at a discounted price (Upgrade), as well as the meaningful repurposing of the old modules (Repurpose).
Upgrade
Our return system: If your SOMO device becomes outdated or broken, simply return it to us, and we will ensure its optimal utilization. Whether by salvaging usable components for reuse or incorporating them into a dedicated recycling initiative, we are committed to avoiding electronic waste.
In South Africa, you can conveniently return your old SOMO device at any Consol Shop. For returns within Europe, please read more here. Once you have returned your old SOMO, you will get a voucher to buy a new one and upgrade your Sonnenglas®.
We sincerely appreciate your participation and support in this endeavor. Together, let's create a better future. Our goal, which we aspire to attain in the near future, is the establishment of a circular system, and we are continuously dedicated to making progress toward this objective.
Repurpose
The Light Tree is an Art Installation in Victoria Yards using old Sonnenglas® solar modules, which carries currently over 700 modules.
It's made out of 100% recycled materials. No material is bought for the tree, but all sourced from within a one km radius and all sponsored from the companies around. The Light Tree stands taller than five meter and the trunk spans more than five meter wide.
All solar modules are connected to a charge controller that regulates the energy being sent to the string lights as well as the batteries. The lights are connected via a timer switch that is scheduled to turn on at four pm and off at three am. Learn more about the of our Light Tree.