PROJECT REPORT

on
(INTRODUCTION TO SUSTAINABILITY)

Submitted by
Aniket Poonia
Reg no.-11912852
Section-k19qk
Roll no.-54

School of Computer Science and Engineering

Lovely Professional University, Punjab

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that i have completed the project on “Introduction to sustainability” under the
guidance of my teacher. I have declare that i have worked with full dedication during these
project periods and my learning outcomes partial fulfill the requirements for the award of degree
of Bachelor of technology in Computer Science and Engineering during the period of 2020-21 in
Lovely Professional University, Phagwara
 Anket Poonia

K19qk

Roll No. (54)

Reg No. (11908624)

Date: 7-NOV-2020

CERTIFICATE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

In the accomplishment of this project successfully, many people have best upon owned their
blessings and the heart pledged support, this time I am utilizing to thank all the people who has
been concerned with the project.

I take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude and deep regard to our University
management for their exemplary guidance, monitoring and constant encouragement throughout
the investigation.

I acknowledge with thanks the kind of patronage, loving inspiration and timely guidance, which
we have received from our Teacher, our family members and friends whose guidance,
encouragement, suggestion and very construction criticism have contributed immensely to the
evolution of our ideas on the project.

Lastly, I thank almighty, my family, relatives and friends for their constant encouragement
without which this assignment would not be possible.

ABSTRACT

Sustainability is defined in terms of four overlapping positions, ranging from very weak to very
strong sustainability. The core idea is of a non-declining capital stock (including natural capital)
over generational time. Weak sustainability positions emphasise capital substitution possibilities
and the power of technical process to mitigate resource depletion and pollution problems.
Climate change and its associated risks and strong uncertainty are characterised by features
which favour a strong sustainability approach incorporating the precautionary principle. Strong
sustainability positions recognise constraints on substitution processes and incorporate ethical
concerns such as intergenerational equity as a moral duty. Cost-benefit analysis is moderated via
safe minimum standards which set GHGs concentrations and emissions abatement target.
 INDEX
1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 HISTORY

1.3 THE ISSUES AN AIMS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

2. BRIEF DESCRIPTION

2.1 GENERAL OVERVIEW

2.2 STANDARDS REACH REGULATION

2.3 CHALLENGES

2.4 STRATEGIES

3. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT-THE PROBLEM OF ENERGY AND THE

IMPACT OF ITS CONSUMPTION

3.1 THE ENERGY PROBLEM

3.2 ENERGY AND POVERTY

3.3 CONTROLLING ENEGY DEMAND

3.4 RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES

3.5 OTHER ENERGY RESOURCES

4. IMPACT OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION

4.1 IMPACT ON CLIMATE

4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

5. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT-ELECTRICITY SAVING, PRACTICES
AND MANAGEMENT

5.1 ELECTRICITY SAVING

5.2 OPTIMIZED MANAGEMENT

5.2.1 LIGHTING

5.3 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES

5.3.1 FREZZER

5.3.2 WASHING MACHINE AND TUMBLE DRIER

6. CONCLUSION

7. REFERENCES

• INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction:

According to the report ‘Our common future’ by Ms. Harlem Brundtland, sustainable

development is defined as development that satisfies the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to satisfy theirs. This report, published in 1987 by
the United Nations World Commission on Environment and Development, insists on the need to
protect the diversity of genes, species, and all terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in nature. This is
possible in particular via measures to protect the quality of the environment, and by the
restoration, development, and maintenance of habitats that are essential to species. This implies
the sustainable management of the use of the animal and plant populations being exploited. In
other words, it is the rational management of human, natural, and economic resources that aims
to satisfy the essential needs of humanity in the very long term.

Sustainable development implies the fulfilment of several conditions: preserving the overall
balance, respect for the environment, and preventing the exhaustion of natural resources.
Reduced production of waste and the rationalisation of production and energy consumption must
also be implemented. Sustainable development is presented as a more or less clean break from
other modes of development, which have led and are still leading to worrying social and
ecological damage on both a worldwide and a local scale. In order to be sustainable,
development must combine three main elements: fairness, protection of the environment, and
economic efficiency. A sustainable development project must be based on a better-developed
mode of consultation between the community and the members it comprises. The success of such
a policy also depends on consumers accepting certain constraints and citizens observing certain
requirements with regard to transparency and participation.

1.2 History
Faced with the over-exploitation of natural resources that accompanied economic and
demographic growth, the think tank known as the Club of Rome, created in 1968, advocated zero
growth. This group unites scientists, economists, national and international civil servants, and
industrialists from 53 countries. It considers the complex problems that face all societies,
whether industrialized or developing. In 1971, this private international association sounded an
urgent alarm by publishing ‘The Limits to Growth’. Broadly speaking, it presents current
economic development as being incompatible with the long-term protection of the planet.

The United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm in 1972 gave birth to
the first true notion of sustainable development, which was called ‘eco development’ in those
days. This founding conference was held in an atmosphere of conflict between the ecology and
the economy. Thanks to the support of personalities such as Maurice Strong, Professor René
Dubos, Barbara Ward and Ignacy Sachs, the integration of social equity and ecological caution
were incorporated into the economic development models for North and South. This would result
in the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP).

As the years have passed, the elements of civil societies, with timid support from governments,
have been waking up to the need to implement worldwide solidarity to deal with the risks of
chaos disturbing nature’s balances. In the 1980s, when the general public became aware of acid
rain, the hole in the ozone layer, and the greenhouse effect, etc., this gradually dawning
awareness took another step forward. Little by little, the media began to make these topics more
accessible to the general public.

In 1980, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) published its world
conservation strategy. This document is one of the original sources of the expression ‘sustainable
development’, which is ‘development durable’ in French and ‘desarollo sustenido’ (or sostenible)
in Spanish. The concept was born of the following observations: the North/South divide (creating
the potential for future conflicts), the search for human development and the ecological risks that
give rise to the urgent need to safeguard the environment.

The term ‘sustainable development’ remained virtually unnoticed until its revival in the Gro
Harlem Brundtland report 'Our common future', published in 1987. As the Prime Minister of
Norway and the chair of the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) at
the time, she aimed to clarify this concept of sustainable development as ‘development that
fulfils the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to fulfil
theirs’. Since then, the concept of sustainable development has been accepted all over the world.

1.3.THE ISSUES AND AIMS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Following the Rio conference of 1992, most countries undertook to draw up a national strategy
for sustainable development. The implementation of these strategies has turned out to be tricky,
because it must address very serious issues within economic and political contexts that are
marked by strong inertia. The issues appear at every level and affect practically every area of
national policy. The various approaches reflect different points of view, and in particular: more or
less constrained free market practices, a desire to place people at the heart of the economy, the
greater or lesser determination of the various countries in the world, and the balance between
short, medium, long, and very long-term interests. Moreover, there is no denying that the
interdependence of modern-day economies means that environmental problems must be dealt
with on a worldwide level, which does not simplify the implementation of the necessary
strategies, particularly because of differences in levels of development.

The aim of sustainable development is to define viable schemes combining the economic, social,
and environmental aspects of human activity. These three areas must therefore be taken into
consideration by communities, companies, and individuals. The ultimate goal of sustainable
development is to find a coherent and long-lasting balance between these three aspects. In
addition to these three main factors, there is a transverse consideration, which is essential to the
implementation of policies and actions with regard to sustainable development: good
governance. Governance consists in the procedures of the decision-making process. In matters of
sustainable development, the consensus of all the participants in society is required in order to
define objectives and implement them: private and public sector companies, associations, NGOs,
unions, and citizens.

Sustainable development did not just appear out of thin air; it is the product of a set of
transformations in which the exploitation of natural resources, the choice of type of investment,
and orientation of technological and institutional modifications are in harmony with present and
future needs. As has already been indicated, the aims of sustainable development must be
considered by individuals, by companies, and on a planet-wide level.

Moreover, the concept of sustainable development is based on a set of requirements. It must

allow the basic needs of present and future generations to be fulfilled with regard to demographic
constraints, such as: access to water, education, health, employment, and the fight against hunger
or malnutrition. Another aim of this type of development is to improve quality of life, which
involves easier access to medical care, social services, culture, and therefore also social well-
being. In addition, respect for rights and freedoms and the promotion of new forms of renewable
energy such as wind, solar, and geothermal power, are important aspects of sustainable
development. Sustainable development must allow the planet’s resources and condition to be
protected for future generations and natural assets to be shared. The concept of sustainable
development also involves narrowing the gaps between rich and poor countries, insofar as these
gaps, if maintained or accentuated, could be the cause of violent conflict, which by its very
nature leads to regression rather than development.

2.BRIEF DESCRIPTION
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: INITIATIVES, STANDARDS,
CHALLENGES, AND STRATEGIES

INITIATIVES BY PRIVATE AND PUBLIC PLAYERS

2.1 General overview
There are many initiatives in favour of sustainable development. However, these initiatives are
often scattered, sometimes not well known (in particular, there is little exchange between the
public and private sectors), and not well promoted. These initiatives, which are rarely part of a
long-term plan, are conducted by a wide variety of players: private and public-sector companies,
associations, NGOs, territorial authorities, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, public
bodies, etc.

All these initiatives sometimes constitute a local knowledge base that must be exploited,
promoted, and shared. The various ministries must increasingly provide the driving force and co-
ordinate, promote, and encourage all stakeholders involved in sustainable development
initiatives. In view of the size of the task, sustainable development requires co-ordinated action
by all of the economic actors and the public authorities.

THE PARTICIPANTS

The Legrand group is solidly committed to sustainable development, and continuously monitors
the implementation of its commitment, maintaining a balance on the economic, environmental,
and societal aspects. For example, Legrand's environmental approach aims to integrate the
preservation of the planet into all areas of the company. This is an important area to be worked
on, which is reflected in the Group’s contribution to improving the energy efficiency of
buildings. According to its CEO, Legrand has a responsibility to ensure the profitable, long-
lasting and responsible growth of its activities. To achieve this, Legrand has been involved for
many years in a progress initiative with its customers and partners. This approach is one way of
responding to the environmental, economic and social issues of today and tomorrow. Proof of
this commitment: the 2011-2013 roadmap, which sets out Legrand’s sustainable development
objectives for the coming years. Objectives that are already mobilising all of the Group’s teams.

The political authorities must work to reconcile a dynamic economy, a high level of education,
protection of health and social and territorial cohesion with protection of the environment, in a
world that respects diversity in all its aspects. The diversity of the objectives of sustainable
development requires many policies and actions to be conducted and co-ordinated by the state
and by civil society. The French national sustainable development strategy most notably
incorporates the conclusions and commitments of the Grenelle Environmental Round Table.
Incentives, which are mainly tax-related, for new modes of production and consumption, to
encourage us to re-think our way of life and behaviour in order to achieve more sustainable
growth and consumption, are the main levers of political power.

On a local level, the ‘sustainable city’ plan encourages a re-think of urban planning, housing,
energy, transport, etc. The ecological solidarity pact, on the other hand, is an initiative that aims
to build a new way of 'living together as a community' that would be economical in terms of
natural resources. The aim of this pact is for sustainable development to become a universally
shared value, which is socially accepted and easily accessible while reducing social inequalities.

2.2 STANDARDS

REACH REGULATIONS

Sustainable development is based on the institution of standards. The new European REACH
regulations came into force on 1st June 2007. REACH stands for ‘Registration, Evaluation and
Authorisation of Chemicals’. The main objectives of REACH are: better protection of human
health and the environment against the risks that can be caused by chemicals. It also promotes
better knowledge of the chemical substances used in industry. The aim of this standard is not to
use toxic products for the sake of health and the environment, and to replace them with
inoffensive products.

REACH regulations concern all industries and all materials that exist on the European market,
whether produced in the European Union or imported, from one tonne per year. It obliges
companies to register their substances with the European Chemicals Agency; otherwise, they will
not be authorised for placement on the European market. Nevertheless, this registration is not
applicable to substances already covered by other regulations (radioactive substances,
medication, phytopharmaceutical products, biocidal products, food additives, etc.). Other
categories, such as polymers, are subject to special handling.

THE ISO 26000 STANDARD

Published on 1st November 2010, this is an international standard which is by definition for
voluntary application and which gives the main guidelines concerning social responsibility with
regard to sustainable development. This is the first big step towards CSR (Corporate Social
Responsibility), and it proposes a method for its adaptation and implementation in an
organization. It provides an international behavioural framework for any type of organization
(companies, communities, NGOs, unions, etc.) irrespective of size or field of activity.

The ISO 26000 standard observes the major international founding texts, such as the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights, the articles of the International Labour Organisation, etc. It
clarifies, explains, gives additional information, and prevents misunderstandings or arbitrary
situations. It was drawn up by consensus, which means that it cannot favour the interests of a
limited group of players; on the contrary, it favours the greatest possible number of players.

The ISO 26000 standard is thus a common international tool for any player wishing to build
‘responsible’ legitimacy. It invites organisations to express their approach according to seven
central questions in order to define the scope of their responsibility to society: the governance of
the organisation, human rights, working relationships and conditions, the environment, best
business practice, questions concerning consumers and the societal commitment. These central
questions aim to identify the relevant areas of action the organisation will be able to focus on to
set its priorities and implement its own actions.

2.3 CHALLENGES
In the field of sustainable development, there are many major challenges to be addressed. They
require us to re-think our economy and our growth in favour of a society that is more economical
in its use of raw materials and energy. Some of these challenges include: climate change, energy
consumption, waste production, threats to public health, poverty, social exclusion, management
of natural resources, loss of biodiversity, and land use. In this context, sustainable development
approaches are now essential obligations.

Sustainable development must mainly be able to respond to the various problems raised by
demographic growth, the planet’s limited capacity, and social inequality. In 2100, the world’s
population will be close to 10 billion, but the Earth does not have unlimited resources, especially
since individual consumption has been increasing considerably because the less developed
countries wish to catch up with the others. Greenhouse gas emissions are one of the main
consequences of human activity that accelerate global warming. This warming carries risks of
shortages and the disruption of certain natural cycles such as fresh water, impoverishment of
agricultural soil, deforestation, and reduced biodiversity. This means that the future development
of all species living on earth, ultimately including human beings, is under threat.

In order to be sustainable, development must also be harmonious. At least a certain amount of

social cohesion must exist on a planetary scale in order to create the conditions for the peace we
need. Major differences between the situations of economic players are sources of tension and
conflict. The North/South economic divide and the unequal distribution of the consumption of
the planet’s natural resources between the world’s populations are notable potential causes of
tension. Will the 10 billion men and women inhabiting our planet in 2100 be able to live as well
as the 750 million people in industrialized nations do today?

2.4 strategies
On a political level, the European Union has determined a strategy to facilitate more sustainable
development. Sustainable development relies on economic, social and environmental
foundations in the framework of co-ordinated worldwide governance. Feedback concerning the
various economic, social and environmental policies already implemented must be obtained. The
states and the European Union must assume their responsibilities as a driving force in the field of
sustainable development.

This strategy follows on from the European Sustainable Cities & Towns Conference (Lisbon
1996), and must be a facilitator of public opinion and policies in order to change consumption
and investment behaviours. This strategy hinges on measures that take the main challenges into
account, transverse measures, appropriate funding, the involvement of all the parties concerned,
and the efficient implementation and monitoring of political decisions. The main directives of the
strategy are: the promotion and protection of basic rights, solidarity within and between
generations, the guarantee of an open and democratic society, the participation of citizens,
companies and the social partners, the coherence and integration of policies, use of the best
available knowledge, the precautionary principle, and the ‘polluter pays’ principle.

As a general rule, any policy involving a strategy in favour of sustainable development must
include the following guidelines, which have international scope and permanent validity:

•    Se responsabiliser face à l'avenir et aux générations futures : c’est à dire promouvoir le
principe de précaution, le principe du pollueur payeur et le principe général de responsabilité.
• Becoming more responsible with regard to the future and future generations: promoting the
precautionary principle, the ‘polluter pays’ principle, and the general principle of responsibility. •
Taking into account the three aspects already mentioned, in a balanced manner, which assumes
that the ‘environmental responsibility’, ‘economic capacity’, and ‘social solidarity’ areas must be
handled equally. • Incorporating sustainable development in all areas of politics. All activities
and all processes in the city must be concerned. • Increasing the co-ordination between political
areas and improving consistency. Thus, any wide-ranging political decision must be preceded by
an early evaluation of its social, economic and ecological consequences. This approach requires
transparent decision procedures and the involvement of all participants concerned, as well as the
prior determination of conflicts of interest. • Achieving the sustainable development objectives
through partnership. All institutional levels must work together constructively and fully assume
their role as an interface with civil society and the private sector.
 
3. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT – THE PROBLEM OF ENERGY AND
THE IMPACT OF ITS CONSUMPTION
3.1 THE ENERGY PROBLEM

General comments on the energy problem

Energy is tightly linked to the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic,
environmental, and social. Energy services are obviously essential to economic and social
development. To contribute to this ongoing development, the main issue in the energy sector will
be to control the consumption of natural energy resources. In fact, we must set up a system for
better compatibility of current living standards with the conservation of energy resources for
future generations.

There is no denying that energy is the driving force—the very essence—of modern civilization.
Energy services are essential for human well-being, and contribute to strengthening social
stability thanks to the constant increase in the standard of living. Energy is decisive for the
development and prosperity of economic players. Although the energy intensity needs of modern
economies are gradually falling, enormous quantities of energy will be required to improve
living conditions in the developing countries. The energy sector itself occupies an important
place in the world economy in terms of employment, income, and trade.

Every country in the world seems to view the standard of living in the USA at the start of the
21st century as the ideal objective. The means of achieving this objective comes up against a
simple equation. This equation provides an evocative illustration: the USA (accounting for 5% of
the world's population) consumes 25% of the world's oil production! Most specialists agree that,
at current rates of consumption, oil reserves will run out within 50 years. It is therefore obvious
that the development model of the United States of America, on which the European model is
based, cannot be applied on a worldwide scale. Energy-wasting practices must therefore be
replaced by a sustainable development model.

3.2 ENERGY AND POVERTY

Energy and the preservation of resources are currently at the heart of the international debate on
sustainable development. Energy occupies a major role in the alleviation of poverty and the
construction of sustainable development. This is a basic aspect of the physical and natural world
and humanity’s socio-economic systems. Energy therefore constitutes one of the critical areas for
interaction between technology, economics, and politics. It is definitely at the heart of social and
environmental matters, as is its fundamental role in any system for planning or developing a
society. As a primary resource, it is crucial for the implementation of all initiatives to combat
poverty, and constitutes the engine of socio-economic development.

Access to energy facilitates the enhancement and development of agriculture and other
productive economic areas. Energy constitutes a key factor to improve living conditions and
reduce poverty. Legrand’s task in this area is to allow the greatest possible number of people all
over the world to have access to electricity. This responsibility sees it make two kinds of
commitment: firstly, solidarity-based involvement in supporting development projects and
providing emergency aid, particularly through its partnership with Electriciens Sans Frontières
(Electricians Without Borders) since 2007; secondly, the development of a range of products and
solutions tailored to emerging countries. In certain parts of the world, Legrand provides its trade
expertise in order to promote development and participate in improving the living conditions of
the population. Thanks to appropriate products that are easy to install and which fulfil specific
local requirements, the Group works every day at providing access to electrical equipment. We
have a true public-spirited commitment in this area. If producers have access to energy, local
agricultural products can be processed and sold at a reasonable price in cities, allowing rural
households to reap greater benefits from their work. Moreover, if these households are connected
to the public electricity system, they can often benefit from subsidized prices. The possibility of
funding the supply of energy to the remote countryside and the sustainability of this funding
contribute to promoting economic productivity in favour of the poorest segments of the
population.

The case of agriculture illustrates how electrical energy can significantly improve living
conditions in the rural areas of poor countries. Note also that eliminating poverty is one of the
central objectives of modern development policy. Access to energy services is an essential tool to
improve the capabilities of poor and underprivileged populations, thus promoting equality. Some
schools of thought even argue that access to sustainable energy should be set out as a basic
human right. If production does not succeed in fulfilling our growing energy needs, however, the
access of poor or rural populations to electricity and other sources could become even more
difficult.

3.3 CONTROLLING ENERGY DEMAND

Electrical energy is the number one final energy consumed in France. We are particularly
concerned by sustainable development. The approach to controlling energy demand starts with
better use of the electricity consumed. The goal is not to downgrade user convenience, but to
maintain the current level while saving energy. This goal can be achieved through the use of
devices that consume little electricity and through the possible intelligent management of the
equipment already in place. Legrand plays a leading role in this area. More and more users are
changing their behaviour in the right direction. The energy saved in this way, and therefore not
consumed, will not emit any local pollutants or greenhouse gases!

The control of electricity demand involves a set of technologies and methods that aim to
optimise the energy expenditure of consumers. This must be achieved while limiting public
infrastructure costs and the impact on the environment. This control involves a certain number of
actions and choices. Equipment must have the best possible performance (low-energy lamps,
insulation of buildings with electrical heating systems, economical household and professional
appliances, etc.). It is also preferable to choose devices that can limit the subscribed power
demand on the network (power controllers, programmers, etc.). Finally, we must work towards
replacing mains electricity used for thermal applications (heating, hot water) with electricity
obtained from renewable energy sources.

3.4 RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

The proportion renewable energy in our energy consumption must inevitably be greatly
increased. The use of such energy sources is possible locally, and the methods are better and
better mastered. Every citizen can therefore make a contribution to sustainable development by
choosing to use renewable energy sources, whether partially or exclusively.

The question of the development of renewable energy sources is inseparable from the question of
sustainable development. Sustainable energy is abundantly provided by the sun, the wind, the
earth’s heat, waterfalls, tides, and the growth of plants, and it creates little or no waste or
polluting emissions. By using these sustainable sources, we preserve the planet’s fossil resources,
such as natural gas and petroleum, the reserves of which are naturally limited and will inevitably
be exhausted.

Thanks to scientific and technical progress, renewable energy sources can already fulfil a large
proportion of the present-day population’s energy needs, outside the transport sector. Future
progress should further reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources. Sustainable
development will ensure the perpetuity of the Earth’s resources and save fossil fuels for the
coming generations. Better management of renewable energy sources is a response to the
problem of maintaining the overall balance and the value of our natural heritage. By producing
more of our electricity using renewable energy sources, we will reduce the proportion of
electricity produced by traditional or nuclear electric power plants. We can therefore directly
reduce the production of radioactive waste, which future generations will be obliged to deal with
in any case. The very serious accident at Fukushima, Japan on 11th March 2011has just shown us
that nuclear power cannot provide the solution to all of our electricity supply problems.

3.5 OTHER ENERGY SOURCES

Energy production using fossil fuels is a polluting process from start to finish. The use of these
non-renewable energy sources is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, we will
need to find a way to cope with the shortage of fossil resources. For the time being, biofuels are
not an acceptable option. They consume a great deal of water, pesticides, and farmable land.
They are also a source of greenhouse gases because of the deforestation they cause, the fact that
their farming is highly mechanized, and the need to transport them. Biofuels give an overall
negative result, and cannot therefore be included in a sustainable development policy.

Nuclear power is produced and controlled in nuclear power plants. It generates much debate,
criticism, concern, and danger. It has the advantage, however, of emitting very little greenhouse
gas compared to fossil fuels. There is, however, a risk of accidents occurring in nuclear power
plants (human error, malicious acts, earthquake, tidal wave, attack, technical fault, etc.).

4.IMPACT OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION

4.1 IMPACT ON CLIMATE CHANGE

As previously indicated, energy in general and electricity in particular are essential factors in the
economic development of human societies.
On the other hand, although energy sources are a decisive factor in economic and social
development, in the current state of knowledge, their exploitation is a source of pollution which
undeniably causes a problem. The steady rise in energy consumption is one of the causes of
climate change. If humanity does not change its ways, specialists predict that temperatures could
rise by 1.4 to 5.8°C between 1990 and 2100.

In addition to the increase in average temperature, human activities are likely to have
immediately visible consequences on other aspects of the climate. Rising sea levels, major
increases in precipitation in certain regions, reduced snow cover at the poles, and the frequency
and intensity of extreme weather phenomena would all be signs of impending climate change. In
this context, sustainable development is a must.

4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Like any human activity, the production and consumption of energy can affect the entire
biosphere. It is clear that certain systems, sectors, and regions will be harder hit than others by
these large-scale phenomena. Certain terrestrial ecosystems (mountain regions, boreal forests,
etc.), marine ecosystems (coral reefs, etc.), and coastal ecosystems (mangroves, etc.) are the most
endangered. The following areas are also concerned: certain dry regions at middle latitudes
because of changes in rainfall, low-lying coastal regions and large deltas in Asia and Africa,
small islands, and populations with little ability to adapt, whose sanitary conditions could
deteriorate, etc.

It is therefore important to anticipate the exhaustion of reserves in order to prevent or limit the
impact of this. In terms of sustainable development, energy efficiency is the first lever to reduce
the consumption of natural resources. Technological progress must contribute to improving
energy performance. The Legrand Group works towards this goal every day.

5. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT – ELECTRICITY SAVINGS,

PRACTICES AND MANAGEMENT

5.1 ELECTRICITY SAVINGS

The fight against climate change and reduction in consumption of non-renewable energy raw
materials are viable. 'Energy savings' refers to all economically profitable actions undertaken to
reduce energy consumption (e.g. optimizing the management of electricity, adapting
consumption according to tariff band, or reducing installed power). The aim is also to consume
energy in an optimum way (for example, by recovering the heat lost in combustion gases,
recycling waste to produce energy, etc.).

They say that ‘the best energy is energy not consumed’. One of the means to achieve this is
through energy efficiency. This involves producing the same goods or services with the least
energy possible. This optimisation is at the heart of sustainable development.

The Grenelle Environmental Round Table firmly set energy efficiency policy back in motion,
giving a central role to the control of energy and sustainable modes of production and
consumption. As we have indicated, this concerns every sector: construction, transport, research,
industry, etc. Energy savings should also allow consumers to save money on their electricity
bills. They limit greenhouse gas emissions caused by the production of electricity and reduce the
construction of costly additional infrastructures that would be dedicated to supplying electricity
and would disfigure the countryside.

Nowadays, energy efficiency is an undeniable and essential component of each Legrand project.
It has even become a major factor in its success. Legrand is a global specialist in electrical and
digital building infrastructures and proposes ever more solutions to better manage electrical
energy, reduce consumption, and continue to contribute to providing high-quality energy. Above
and beyond the offer itself, the involvement of all participants in their daily practices of
prescription and installation is what will allow these environment-friendly solutions to achieve
their full potential. The same applies to the beneficial reduction in the environmental footprint of
buildings.

5.2 Practices
At the workplace, energy savings are achieved by applying good behavioural practice. Practices
that favour sustainable development include:
• switching off the light when leaving a room,
• adjusting the air temperature and recycling according to occupancy,
• switching off a computer before an absence of a few hours or more,
• disconnecting the charger when a mobile phone has finished charging,
• switching off devices that remain on stand-by after use (printers, scanners, etc.).
Logo Développement durable Legrand

Thanks to Legrand’s innovative solutions, these good practices can be automated at the
workplace. Even though these small actions would seem to be mere common sense, in practice
they are often forgotten by employees who are not being careful or who are in a rush because
they are snowed under by a huge number of tasks. Thus, in addition to the collective realisation
that there is a real need to control energy consumption, technology can help to ensure the
systematic application of these practices. To help users adopt good practices automatically,
Legrand offers a whole range of solutions that contribute to sustainable development. Green
outlets, presence detectors, lighting management systems, etc., are some of these. These
solutions contribute to a significant reduction in energy consumption and increase energy
efficiency, whether in the context of renovation or construction, or the use of a building.

5.2. OPTIMIZED MANAGEMENT

5.2.1 LIGHTING
For lighting, LED lamps are the best item in terms of low consumption and sustainable
development. Lamps consisting of five or seven LEDs can be used, and these are equivalent to
the small halogen spot lamps used for directional lighting (bookcase, showcase, etc.). These
lamps of the future, which are very economical, ecological, and health-friendly, are becoming
increasingly affordable. They can now be obtained more easily, because they are beginning to be
available in supermarkets. They can be used for any type of lighting, whether for additional or
decorative lighting, for home or outdoor use.
Low-energy lamps can thus help to achieve substantial energy savings. They can supply the same
amount of light while consuming five times less electricity than classic incandescent lamps.
These lamps, however, produce weak electromagnetic fields that could be damaging to health
and the environment. Low-energy lamps contain mercury (highly toxic if released, for example
from a defective or broken lamp). These lamps must not be accessible to children.
Allumage par détection

Automation or the control system also leads to highly significant savings of electrical energy by
placing equipment in stand-by mode or switching it off completely, according to the
programming. Presence detectors, complete home automation systems, automatic switches,
stand-alone detectors, etc., are all effective lighting or temperature management solutions. These
accessories are used to control and program lighting, heating, and other types of consumption in
order to optimise their use and reduce costs. They can be controlled via BUS/SCS, CPL, ZigBee,
or components of the Mosaic Program.

5.3 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES

General remarks concerning household appliances
Household appliances (microwave ovens, washing machines, tumble driers, etc.) and convenient
and useful, but they consume a large amount of energy. Their consumption can be as much as
40% of a family’s electrical consumption (excluding heating, hot water, and cooking), and 60%
for households with a large amount of equipment. Ecology and sustainable development are now
gradually becoming a way of life, and environmental practices are becoming increasingly
integrated into everyday life. In view of the increasing awareness of western consumers, the
major brands are offering economical, ecological machines that are kinder to the environment.
 
When buying a household appliance, it is important to consider its energy label. This label
provides essential information allowing machines to be compared and selected according to
which are the most efficient and the most economical. For equal performance, certain machines
can consume much less energy than others.
 
The energy label is the simplest, quickest way to guide the consumer in his choice of household
appliance. Household appliances consume less and less energy, thanks to the tireless efforts of
their manufacturers. Despite this, they still account for a significant proportion of household
electricity bills.

Devices in Class A, A+, or A++ are the most highly recommended, according to the type of use.
There are many advantages to choosing such devices. A Class A machine generally has a longer
working life. It consumes up to three times less electricity than a Class C device. The lower
consumption of household appliances lessens the cost of operating these machines, and makes a
public-spirited contribution to preserving the environment.

5.3.1 Freezer

The freezer is one of the major consumers of electricity in a household. Its average consumption
can be as much as 20% of a household electricity bill. It is therefore particularly profitable to
apply all necessary measures to make energy savings in its use.

It is essential to avoid the build-up of frost in a freezer or freezer compartment. To reduce frost
formation, it is important to develop the habit of leaving the door open for the shortest possible
time. Frost is caused by the contact between water vapour in the air and the cold walls of the
device. Frost build-up leads to unnecessarily high energy consumption because of the energy
used to maintain the mass of ice thus formed.

Frost can also be caused by poor sealing of the device caused by gaskets in poor condition or by
an incorrect temperature setting. One solution is an anti-frost mat, which insulates and prevents
the accumulation of ice. Regular defrosting, approximately twice a year or whenever necessary,
will limit the electricity consumption. There are other good practices that can help consumers
contribute to sustainable development:

• Choose the size of your device in accordance with your actual needs. If the device is too large,
consumption is unnecessarily high.
• Place your freezer in a cool location, near an opening. Above all, avoid placing it beside heat
sources such as an oven or cooker. A nearby source of heat would lead to significant
overconsumption of energy.
• Do not adjust your freezer to the coldest setting. A temperature from -15°C to -20°C is
sufficient to freeze food and avoid wasting energy.
• Fill your freezer as much as possible. It will consume less energy if it contains no empty space.
• Whenever you open the freezer door, close it again as soon as possible. Food can be labelled so
that the user can locate it easily in the freezer; this reduces the time during which the freezer door
is kept open.
• Leave a space of at least 5 cm behind the freezer (between the grille and the wall) for air
circulation. Clean the grille behind your refrigerator–freezer regularly.
• Before freezing food, leave it to cool at room temperature before placing it in the freezer. This
will not only save energy, but also reduce the frost formation and bacterial growth.

5.3.2 Washing machine and tumble drier

For ecological and sustainable laundry, avoid using pre-wash cycles. Moreover, it is preferable to
run the machine at 30°C or 40°C. This gives the same result as at 60°C, but with far lower
energy consumption. ‘Economy’ mode or a short cycle is recommended. You should also
optimise the load placed in the machine. These small precautions can save up to 25% on
electricity and 30% on water for a small load.

The tumble drier is not a machine that favours sustainable development. Of all household
appliances, it is the biggest consumer of energy. Its average consumption can reach 500 kWh,
which represents almost 15% of a family’s annual electricity consumption (excluding heating).
Users who cannot do without a tumble drier are advised to wring out the clothing as much as
possible by hand before placing it in the drier, to start the machine only when it is full, and to
clean the filter regularly. Remember that clothing has a longer life if not dried in a machine.
Energy can be saved by hanging the washing to dry on an indoor rack or outdoor line.

6. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT – THE RESPONSIBILITIES

6.1 THE RESPONSIBILITY OF COMPANIES

Le contrat social

Sustainable development covers three dimensions: economic, social, and environmental. Social
responsibility is the contribution made by organisations to sustainable development. It is
reflected in the company’s will to take responsibility for the impact of its decisions and activities
on society and on the environment, and to answer for this impact. On 1st November 2010, the
first international standard concerning social responsibility, ISO 26000, was published. Its aim is
to give guidelines to organisations, taking into account the existing references for general
operation, management systems, and reporting. Social responsibility concerns the principles of
sustainable development applied to the sphere of an organization and its stakeholders.

The organisation may be a large company, and SME, an administration, an association, or an

NGO. Its stakeholders are all individuals or groups with an interest in its decisions or activities:
personnel, unions, occupational physicians, shareholders, customers, subcontractors, suppliers,
technological or financial partners, as well as representatives of the State, local authorities,
neighbours, associations, media, etc. The scope is vast, and it must be delineated with a careful
assessment of priorities. Embarking on a social responsibility initiative means first identifying
the stakeholders, initiating a dialogue with them to find out about their expectations, and
evaluating the impact of the organisation on these expectations.
The NF ISO 26000 standard facilitates this procedure. It offers a common, universal,
international framework and guidelines to structure the approach and to integrate it into the
management system. It allows the organisation and its stakeholders to reveal their expectations
concerning the main themes of sustainable development. This standard is like a methodological
guide that contains seven central questions on which it invites the user to reflect and act. For
companies, the CSR approach consists of taking the social and environmental impact of their
activity into consideration in order to adopt the best possible practices, thereby contributing to
improving society and protecting the environment. The CSR approach combines economic logic
with social responsibility and environmental responsibility.

A company can evaluate its level of social responsibility thanks to ISO 26000. The interest lies
on several levels: company, investors or shareholders, and employees. On a company level,
social responsibility is a recognized factor in growth and durability for two reasons. The first
reason is the increasingly strong pressure from contractors and consumers in this area:
‘responsible buyers’ are selecting ‘responsible suppliers’. The second reason is that, with social
responsibility, the company has a strategic and effective tool to limit the exposure to risk
(environmental, social, disputes with stakeholders, etc.). Where investors and shareholders are
concerned, the growth in the responsible investment market is real, and the social and
environmental performance of the companies is taken into account. Employees appreciate
working in a responsible company; it is definitely a motivating factor.

6.2 THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MANUFACTURERS

PRESENTATION

The environmental responsibility of manufacturers is to continue to develop innovative solutions

that favour sustainable development. The Group holds the ongoing quest for more energy-
efficient buildings as one of its primary concerns. From this standpoint of respect for the
environment and sustainable development, the Legrand Group has defined priority actions to be
carried out in its activities. These priorities constitute the charter of its intangible commitment:

• Incorporating the environmental approach on all Group sites by implementing environmental

management on ISO 14001-certified manufacturing sites, continually improving performance,
and reducing the environmental impact of sites.
• Taking the environmental aspect into account right from the design phase of products, systems,
and solutions, by incorporating the eco-design concept, for all design and development projects,
in order to reduce and quantify the environmental impact of products over their entire life cycle.
• Fully informing customers to help them choose the best solutions, through clear and transparent
information on the environmental impact of products, systems and solutions.
• Offering customers solutions to improve the energy efficiency of buildings via energy-saving
products for residential, commercial, or industrial premises.

These environmental commitments are integrated into the daily activities of the company. They
involve the responsibility of all participants in the company, in accordance with the sustainable
development approach. This commitment to sustainable development promotes awareness and
obtains the support of all industrial partners.

6.3 PROMOTING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Energy efficiency is a fundamental factor in Legrand projects, and one of the main criteria in its
value. More and more products are being proposed to optimise the management of electrical
energy, supply high-quality energy, reduce consumption, and contribute to sustainable
development. Offers of practical solutions, such as the electric vehicle charging station, the
lighting management system, and green outlets, allow consumers to make significant energy
savings while taking concrete action to help preserve natural and energy resources.

Responsible and clearly indicated information accompanies every energy efficiency offer. The
true benefits provided by these sustainable development solutions also include financial savings,
the amortization period, and the CO2 mass equivalent saved. Thanks to clear and sincere
communication, customers have the essential information they require to make a choice and then
to install the solutions to be implemented.

These solution offers are supported by the strong involvement of every player in the Legrand
Group, in order to endow these products with their full economic, social, and environmental
value. The reduction of the environmental footprint of buildings thus contributes to the
preservation of non-renewable resources and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. For the
Legrand Group, promoting energy efficiency is not only a challenge: it is what we are here for.

interested in improving the energy efficiency of buildings. For example, when installing three
energy meters and a measuring unit combined with corrective actions, the following information
is shown on the eco-label: Potential savings for 300 m2 office space; annual savings €799;
maximum amortization time 16 months; savings per year 1000 kg CO2 equivalent of all
pollutant gases (CO2, methane, carbon monoxide, fluorinated gases, etc.).

7. CONCLUSION

seeking a compromise between the natural environment and the pursuit of economic growth. It
Sustainable development, if it is not to be devoid of analytical content, means more than means
a definition of development which recognizes that the limits of sustainability have structural as
well as natural origins.

“Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
Sustainable development is based on the three pillars of sustainability: economic,
environmental and social sustainability. It is only achieved when there is balance or a trade-off
between these three aspects (see figure below).

Relationships in sustainable development – environmental, social and economic concerns. 

Some authors have expanded this approach and added a fourth pillar (for example cultural,
political or institutional), but it is most important to understand that sustainable development is a
holistic, integrated approach, meaning that in order to achieve sustainable development, there
needs to be a balance between different spheres of

8. REFRENCES
• Carley, M. 1994, Policy Management Systems for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural
Development, International Institute for Environment and Development and Food and
FAO, Rome.
• Carson, R. T., Meade, N. F. and Smith, V. K. 1993, 'Contingent valuation and passive-use
values: introducing the issues', Choices, Second Quarter, 5-8.
• Global Sustainable Development, an undergraduate degree program offered by the
University of Warwick.
• "Circles of Sustainability – Practical tools for creating sustainable cities and
communities". Circles of Sustainability – Practical tools for creating sustainable cities
and communities. 16 December 2013. Retrieved 8 June 2017.
• Principles of Sustainability, an open course offered by the University of Idaho and
Washington State University.
• Sustainable Development Knowledge Platform, United Nations platform on sustainable
development.
• "Sustainable Development Law HYPERLINK
"https://web.archive.org/web/20170704110229/https:/www.wcl.american.edu/org/
sustainabledevelopment/"& HYPERLINK
"https://web.archive.org/web/20170704110229/https:/www.wcl.american.edu/org/
sustainabledevelopment/" Policy". American University Washington College of Law. 11
November 2015. Archived from the original on 4 July 2017. Retrieved 8 June 2017
• "Sustainable Development Solutions Network". Sustainable Development Solutions
Network. 20 April 2017. Retrieved 8 June 2017.
• World Bank website on sustainable development.
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