Oana Coșman
Therefore, sustainability was the key concept around most of the press conferences and launches at this year’s IFA event. Companies from all around the world showcased their electronic devices and technologies meant to help consumers use less energy and water, in order to be more efficient.
Besides the element of efficiency in usage and cost reduction, the products showcased at Berlin brought forward the use of recycled materials in making them and also in packaging.
We’ve selected a few of the most interesting product launches at IFA 2022 centered on sustainability and the responsible use of resources.
Electrolux
At IFA 2022 Electrolux presented, among other products, a new range of washing machines and dryers that promise a more efficient water and electricity consumption.
At the beginning of the press conference, the company’s representatives pointed out the fact that if consumers would use the steam technology from the new washing machines, they would save up to 2 million showers, or the daily water consumption of 8,000 people.
”A standard washing cycle uses 50 liters of water, our steam cycles uses just 2 liters and has the same efficiency”, said Michael Geisler, General Manager Electrolux Germany and Austria, during the press conference at IFA 2022.
Moreover, both Chris Braam, CEO of Electrolux Europe, and Sarah Schaefer, Vicepresident of Sustainability Electrolux Europe, mentioned the fact that sustainability is in company’s DNA and that they have a sustainability strategy that they would like to take along the whole logistic chain, involving also the company’s partners.
As I was saying, global appliance company Electrolux – under its premium brand AEG – reveals a new range of washing machines and tumble dryers that automatically adjust time, water, and energy usage.
Moreover, a new add-on filter catches up to 90% of microplastic fibers released by synthetic clothing.
At IFA, AEG also showcased its new range of food waste-saving fridges and freezers with unique models made with up to 70% recycled plastic in the inner liner walls.
You can find out more about Eletrolux and its more sustainable electronics here.
Samsung
The south-korean manufacturer of electronics and smartphones was one of the leading companies at IFA 2022 when it comes to sustainability, presenting an entire range of products meant to transform our homes into more sustainable ones.
Samsung Electronics demonstrated its vision for a smarter life and a sustainable future during its IFA 2022 press conference.
For example, when it comes to washing machines, SmartThings Energy with AI Energy Mode optimizes laundry cycles with technologies such as AI Ecobubble which cuts energy by up to 70% by washing clothes with cold water while still delivering powerful cleaning.
In the case of refrigerators, with SmartThings Energy with AI Energy Mode by intelligently adjusting temperatures based on door opening patterns and compressor speed, saving users up to 10% on energy use.
This savings is expected to increase to 30% by the end of the year — 15% reduction through compressor and Defrost AI algorithm with an additional 15% reduction through maintaining a higher average internal temperature in the refrigerator.
Other notable energy savings include 40% for the Eco Heating System, 20% for dryers and 20% by the end of this year for the Residential Air Conditioner (RAC).
You can read more on Samsung’s vision for a sustainable future here and also in this article.
Nokia
HMD Global, the company that holds the license for Nokia phones, came up with its own vision regarding a durable future by presenting a new line of smartphones from aluminum and recycled plastic that promise to be more eco-friendly.
At the same time, the company presented Circular, a new subscription service offering a more sustainable and hassle-free way to use Nokia smartphones and tablets.
The company is incentivising people to keep their phones for longer with a range of eco-friendly rewards.
Circular minimises the negative impact phone ownership can have on the planet by keeping smartphones and tablets out of landfill and giving them a second life.
Within the subscription model, Nokia devices go through recycling, refurbishing and re-subscribing or they go to a charitable cause that needs it the most.
Miele
The German electronics producer centered its entire presence at IFA 2022 on the motto “Discover quality ahead of its time. For a better tomorrow”, presenting the solutions meant to protect the environment and to help its customers live better and more sustainably.
For example, the latest version of the Miele App features a new Consumption Dashboard which records how much water and electricity is used by dishwashers and washing machines during each wash cycle, guiding users on how to use appliances more efficiently.
At the same timp, the latest generation of fridges is equipped with an array of features that promise greater sustainability in the kitchen. One feature is PerfectFresh Active, an innovative system which keeps fruit and vegetables fresher for longer.
Find out more about Miele and its vision for the future here.
Urbanista
Urbanista is a Swedish audio maker launched in 2010. At IFA 2022 the company presented a pair of solar powered headphones.
Released under the name Los Angeles, the headphones are the world’s first self-charging, solar-powered, wireless active noise-cancelling headphones.
Urbanista’s Los Angeles headphones offer virtually unlimited playtime with solar charging which continues working when exposed to both indoor and outdoor light.
Bosch
Bosch presented at IFA 2022 the Bosch Smart Home concept, which promises to help consumers save up to 36% on electricity.
For example, the system can control the temperature of the room when you are not there, or to control the temperature when you open the window.
Research: consumers are willing to pay more for energy-efficient electronics
During the IFA 2022 fair, the organizers published a survey according to which consumers are willing to spend up to 50% – or €150 more – on sustainable goods if it saves them money and energy in the long term.
According to the research, 47% of consumers are willing to spend 47% more for energy-efficient washing machines, while 25% of them accept a 25% surcharge for devices with guaranteed repair services.
At the same time, 50% of smartphone shoppers consider buying pre-owned devices.
Any thoughts?