July 11, 2014

New emission-free member of the vehicle fleet
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*The writing instrument manufacturer Schneider in Schramberg has taken another
step towards environmental responsibility. The company is now the proud owner of
its first electric car. The acquisition of an electric car was listed as an
objective in the company’s environmental statement which is published every 2
years. This year the objective was turned into reality and the employees can
book the car for short distance business trips.The acquisition of further
electric cars is already planned.*

It is small, let’s say compact, a little futuristic on the inside and smart.
The dark blue metallic e-up! by Volkswagen. It consumes just 11.7 kWh for every
100 kilometers. It has a range of up to 160 kilometers and is therefore ideal
for short trips in the region, small shipments or shuttle services between the
company’s two plants. But the best thing about this new vehicle is that it is
emission-free.

Despite the high acquisition cost, Schneider focuses on sustainability in
projects and production. Since 1998, Schneider has operated under a professional
environmental policy adhering to the world's strictest environmental management
system (EMAS). An audit takes place every three years by an independent and
accredited environmental auditor.

*Business trips by train are obligatory

*

For business trips to destinations further away within Germany it is obligatory
for Schneider employees to use the train. Thirty-six employees of the company
have a frequent traveler card for the Deutsche Bahn (German Railway). In the
course of a year the employees cover almost 200 thousand kilometers by train
using green energy.

*Time to saddle up

*

The company has always wanted to reduce the daily commuter traffic from its
workers homes to the company. Therefore, CEO Roland Schneider arranged a free
company bus which runs during regular working hours. Two years ago in 2012 he
launched an electric bicycle scheme. The company bought 18 electric bicycles for
the employees to use instead of cars to get to work. Now, two years later the
company numbers 51 active cyclers on its staff. Thanks to the bicycle rental
program, Schneider employees are actively involved in the implementation of
reducing Schneider’s carbon footprint. Besides, it is not only good for the
environment, but also contributes to the health of its workers.


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[363 words, 2333 characters (including blank spaces) by Martina Schneider]

Schneider Schreibgeräte GmbH • 78144 Schramberg • Germany