Since 2008, the many shops in the Sønderborg area have had the opportunity to receive a ZERObutik diploma as proof that they have reduced their carbon footprint. There is strong interest in making a difference.

91

stores have become ZERObutik in 2025.

120

The goal is that 120 stores will become ZERObutik in 2029.

A textbook example of creating engagement

Most shoppers in the Sønderborg area have come across the round ZERObutik sticker displayed in shop windows throughout the municipality. The sticker and the related diploma come in five color variants, indicating the level of effort made to reduce the shop’s carbon footprint.

The ZERObutik concept has undergone several updates since its launch in 2008. What began as a focus solely on energy consumption has expanded to include other elements of a store’s total carbon footprint. The purpose, however, remains the same: to help green-minded stores stand out, to motivate them to become even more climate-friendly, to raise awareness of Sønderborg’s shared 2029 vision, and to give consumers a better foundation for making sustainable choices.

And the concept works. Since 2008, nearly 200 stores have received a ZERObutik diploma, and many have embraced the challenge of earning the next-level diploma – or scoring higher than the neighboring shop.

ZERObutik is not only known among citizens in the Sønderborg area. Organizations such as Det Økologiske Råd and Rådet for Grøn Omstilling highlight ZERObutik as a best practice example of how to engage both stores and consumers in the green transition.

The diploma must be renewed each year

Become a ZERObutik

If you have a store in the Sønderborg area, you can also earn the right to become a ZERObutik. Maybe you already are.

To get your ZERObutik diploma, you need to fill out the ZERObutik form, which contains questions within these 6 categories:

– Lighting
– Garbage
– Heat source
– Building
– Energy management
– Renewable energy

    If you want to become a ZERObutik, please contact Malene Lemann, mle@projectzero.dk