Sustainability meets comfort
How Camping Kirchzarten achieved the EU Ecolabel with intelligent resource use, bee havens, and modern technology, creating real added value for guests.
Camping enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families who value environmentally conscious holidays will find an ideal destination in the Black Forest at Camping Kirchzarten: Nestled in fragrant pine forests and just a stone's throw from Freiburg, the site combines pristine nature with modern amenities. Owner Jens Ziegler aims to offer guests not only relaxation and adventure, but also to exemplify the careful use of resources. His commitment was recently recognized with the EU Ecolabel – Europe's seal of approval for sustainable businesses.
Saving water systematically: A paradigm shift at the shower head
As a requirement for the EU Ecolabel, the maximum water flow per shower must be 8.5 l/min . A first glance at the consumption data was sobering: 12 l/min . Saving water resulted in thin jets, so Ziegler replaced all shower heads and fittings with modern water-saving models. The result: 8 l/min with the usual full jet – conserving resources and without compromising the guest experience. Two rainwater cisterns are planned for the outdoor areas to water plants without drinking water in the future.
Blooming insect worlds instead of monotonous lawns
Biodiversity begins on our doorstep: Instead of neglected green spaces, bee-friendly perennial and flower meadows have been created. Where once there was lush grass, there is now a buzz of bumblebees and wild bees. Plans call for additional "bumblebee zones" in the corners of the square – small paradises for pollinators that keep our ecosystem vibrant.
Surface sealing and drainage paving: allowing rainwater to seep away
The EU Ecolabel only permits a maximum of 10% sealed surface . Camping Kirchzarten falls far short of this. The new recycling area rests on drainage paving, allowing rainwater to seep directly into the groundwater cycle.
Smart digital: Paper consumption halved and waiting times eliminated
The digital reception has reduced paper consumption by 50% and eliminated annoying queues, freeing up more time for personalized guest service and a smooth check-in process. At the same time, automation relieves the team's workload in times of limited staffing resources.
Energy efficiency: From gas boiler to heat pump
All indoor and outdoor lighting is LED and activated by motion detectors. A new heating system with two heat pumps replaces the old gas boiler; gas is only used during peak loads. The building's own photovoltaic system currently covers 12% of electricity needs – energy storage systems will soon be installed to compensate for sunny periods.
Personal support for EU Ecolabel success
A decisive impetus came from the audit visit by ECOCAMPING auditor Martin Rolletschek . The personalized consultation helped optimize technical details and fully meet all Ecolabel criteria.
Conclusion: Resource-saving holidays that inspire
Camping Kirchzarten proves that an environmentally conscious vacation doesn't have to mean compromises. With innovative measures in water management , biodiversity conservation , and energy optimization , the site is a shining example of sustainable camping. Those who want to travel in a resource-efficient way while enjoying a first-class guest experience will find their ideal vacation home here.
EU Ecolabel certificate handed over to Mr. Jens Ziegler ( Camping Kirchzarten ) by Dr. Sven Ueberlein (RAL gGmbH, awarding body of the EU Ecolabel in Germany).
Discover more certified ECOCAMPS sites at www.ecocamps.de and experience how green and attractive camping can be!
Here you can find more information about the EU Ecolabel:
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