audits in the jungle

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CUSTOMER MAGAZINE OF TÜV RHEINLAND
AUDITS IN THE JUNGLE
TÜV Rheinland certifies sustainable palm oil plantations
THE WOOD DETECTIVES
How TÜV Rheinland
tracks down wood
thieves worldwide
REVOLUTION ABOVE
THE CLOUDS
Fascinating flight:
the air traffic of the
future is already
underway
ISSUE 3.10
Contents
04
Technology & Safety
Focus: Flying
The Magic of Flight
04
Uplifting: following in the footsteps of
Leonardo da Vinci, Lilienthal and Wright
Red Bull Air Race
06
Impressive: why the world’s fastest
air race has so many fans
Modern Mobility
Breathtaking: what the air traffic
of the future will achieve
Trends & Innovation
20
Sustainable Palm Oil
20
Under close observation: why experts
from TÜV Rheinland are roaming the
Asian jungle
Markets & Expertise
23
Mobile Treasures
Doing the math: are vintage cars a
better investment than shares?
23
Illegal Harvesting
22
A clever setup: how TÜV Rheinland
catches wood thieves around the world
10
Spotlight
Sales Advice
Tips on how to stay safer in the
cold season
16
Experimenting with Alternative Energy 18
How a major biogas pilot project
succeeded after all
02
Facts and Figures
14
- International Guests Visit TÜV Rheinland
- German-Chinese Dialog Forum Convenes
- Deutsche Post Real Estate Germany
Undergoes Certification
- Concepts for the Fight against Corruption
- Evonik Degussa has a Positive
Eco-Balance
contact 3.10
Editorial
26
People & Environment
TAKING OFF TO NEW PLACES
Five hundred years ago flying was a dream, 100 years ago a dangerous experiment. In my childhood it was still something exotic for me. Today, 6-yearolds have frequent-flier status – and airports are more like reloading points for
people and goods than places of adventure and romance. I myself spend
countless hours in the air each year.
In 2009, more than 2.3 billion passengers traveled by air. The Internet may
have revolutionized international communication, but even the most interesting e-mail cannot and will not replace face-to-face talks and meetings.
In addition, the amount of goods transported by air is constantly growing.
More and more airports are pushed to their limits, in terms of both capacity
and noise pollution. Starting on page 10, you’ll find some insights into what
flight could look like by the year 2050, and how diverse the TÜV Rheinland
For the Sake of Traffic Safety
26
aviation safety service offering already is today.
Widely respected: the vehicle inspection
Pilots in the spectacular Red Bull Air Race also deliver top performance as
sticker turns 50 – what does the future
they dart through the air gates of the slalom course at breathtaking speeds.
hold for the “TÜV” test?
During takeoff and landing, the sport pilots trust in the know-how of TÜV
Rheinland: our experts were responsible for the stringent testing required for
“O’zapft ist” in Tokyo
28
approval of the tower at the EuroSpeedway in Lausitz (page 6).
A strong sense of tradition: many Asian
Safety and quality are also the focus of activities on the other side of the glo-
people are crazy about Oktoberfest
be: read about how our auditors contribute to sustainability in the palm oil
industry in the jungles of Malaysia (page 22) and about the unique method our
Perfect Timing
29
chemistry experts use to support the fight against illegal forestry.
Always in the picture: a portrait of the
Another frequent flier by trade is the multi-award-winning documentary and
award-winning feature and technical
technology photographer Thomas Ernsting. He always looks forward to re-
photographer Thomas Ernsting
warding journeys to high-tech sites – like TÜV Rheinland Testing Centers
Editorial Information
32
(page 29). Join us on a trip around the international world of TÜV Rheinland.
Sit back and enjoy the read!
Cover picture:
TÜV Rheinland auditor Carol Ng
certifies palm oil plantations according
to the criteria of the Roundtable on
Sustainable Palm Oil.
contact 3.10
Friedrich Hecker
President and CEO of TÜV Rheinland AG
03
04
04
Technology & Safety Flying
contact 3.10
BOUNDLESS LIBERTY
Gliding majestically through the air and viewing the world from above – the dream of flying is as old as humanity itself. In Greek mythology, it was Icarus who escaped the Minotaur’s labyrinth on feathered
wings. During the 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci inspired people’s
fantasies of flight with his revolutionary sketches. Many years later,
mankind witnessed the first hot air balloon, the first motorized airplane and the first zeppelin.
Nowadays, anything seems possible in the world of aviation, as impressively demonstrated by the pilots in the Red Bull Air Race. However, stringent safety measures are essential both in the air and on the
ground to make this boundless freedom above the clouds an everyday
reality. That creates a broad field of activity for TÜV Rheinland because the lofty achievements of the 21st century have made technical
know-how and industry-specific expertise more vital than ever. You’ll
find more information over the next few pages.
contact 3.10
05
THREADING THE
NEEDLE AT
The Red Bull Air Race places
the greatest possible
demands on both the pilots
and the machinery.
06
contact 3.10
Flying Technology & Safety
FULL SPEED
The Red Bull Air Race is the world’s most spectacular and
extreme sport aviation event. Fasten your seatbelts!
The agile prop-driven plane zooms over onlookers’ heads at
experts took on responsibilities like the technical inspection
a breathtaking velocity. The noise is deafening. A lightning-
of the control tower. The Red Bull Air Race has long since
fast change of direction, a sharp turn to the right – and in the
begun drawing major crowds. More than three million fans
blink of an eye the aircraft passes through another air gate.
turned out in 2009 to watch the spectacular flying maneuvers
The audience is transfixed with suspense, but the pilot has
up close and live.
already left the finish line far behind. The time: a mere 75
seconds.
The Red Bull Air Race is a nonstop adrenaline rush. It’s all
about speed, precision and the ultimate race against time. At
top speeds of just under 400 kilometers per hour, the pilots
maneuver their racing planes between inflatable cloth pylons.
These obstacles, termed air gates, form the World Championship course. Some pylons are positioned to create proper
gates, which must be flown through horizontally or vertically,
while others form slalom stretches. And it all takes place
dangerously close to the ground. The objective of the race:
to fly the entire course as fast as possible, overcoming each
obstacle in the right order, flawlessly.
From New York to Rio
The 15 best racing pilots in the world compete fiercely for
the World Championship title, which British contender Paul
Bonhomme took home yet again in 2010. Breathtaking settings are part of what makes the Red Bull Air Race so spec-
Top performance between man and machine
“The Air Race is a thousand times more exciting to watch
live than Formula 1, because you can see the whole course
all the time, and not just glimpse a car or plane zooming by
every once in a while,” says Matthias Dolderer, the only
German pilot taking part in the World Championships.
This entertainment value is the result of technological excellence and human skill on the highest level. No normal sport
plane would stand up to the forces that come into play. Only
extraordinary high-tech aircraft take part in the Air Race; the
pilots are experienced and – equally important – in excellent
condition. Gravitational acceleration forces increase to as
much as 10 g in flight. By comparison: a rollercoaster generates only 4 g, and from 8 g upward there is acute danger of
whiplash injury and bone breakage. An inexperienced person
would lose consciousness immediately in the Air Race. The
pros not only stay alert, but “thread the needle” through the
air gates with incredible precision. As one pilot put it: “It’s
like parking in a garage at 400 kilometers an hour.”
tacular. In New York, the Statue of Liberty watched over the
high-speed event: the race was held before the city’s imposing skyline, on the Hudson River. In the bay of Rio de Janeiro alone, a million fans looked on as the daredevil pilots
fought for points. Only this year’s finals took place over dry
ground. For this purpose, the organizers transformed the
EuroSpeedway in Germany’s Lausitz region into an aerobatics arena. To do so, they worked with TÜV Rheinland: the
contact 3.10
07
BACKGROUND
TÜV Rheinland at the Red Bull Air Race
TÜV Rheinland played a significant role in making it possible to hold the Red Bull Air Race finals at the EuroSpeedway in Lausitz. The control tower, which the organizers
use all over the world, is classified as a portable building
under German building codes. As the organizers did not
have the required inspection documentation, they contracted TÜV Rheinland to carry out the necessary tests
and calculations as well as to conduct the final onsite inspection. Along with the tower, the hangars and the grid
stand – a “catwalk” for the planes – and completed the
test documentation for all facilities. Only then did the
building authorities allow the race to go ahead.
08
contact 3.10
Flying Technology & Safety
Loading the aircraft: the Red
Bull Air Race tours the entire
globe.
INFORMATION
Rainer Reichelt
[email protected]
+49 221 806-33 86
contact 3.10
09
FLYING ON SEAWEED
To fly: from the mythological tale of
Icarus to the studies and inventions
of Leonardo da Vinci, the magic of
flight has always captured the hearts
of mankind. Even today, we look up
to watch massive airliners rise to
the heavens. Yet what demands are
connected with the fascination of
flying? Where will our passion for
the skies lead us by the year 2050?
By the time the butterflies-in-the-stomach
175 days to fly around the globe – in today’s
sensation begins, the colossus has already
aviation it’s possible to travel the same dis-
left the ground. Around 2.3 million passen-
tance in less than two days. Modern trav-
gers all over the world share this experience
elers can relax at Malibu Beach or take in
each year. Just a little more than 100 years
Carnival in Rio just as easily as they can buy
ago, the concept of motorized flight was a
exclusive fabrics in Bangkok or negotiate
fantasy shared only by crazy inventors. One
with business partners in a Karaoke bar in
of them was Orville Wright: in 1903 he be-
Japan. According to the Airports Council
came the first human being to leave the
International World Report, passenger vol-
ground in a motorized aircraft – his wood
umes will rise at an annual rate of around
and fabric plane carried him just 36 meters.
four percent until the year 2029. Flying has
But that was the breakthrough. Huge in-
long become a mass-transportation mode
vestments were made in aviation, especial-
– and yet it has lost none of its fascination.
ly during the two World Wars. Yet not only
One reason for this may be that few non-
warplanes began to fill the skies, the first
experts understand how an airliner weighing
passenger and freight aircraft also went to
hundreds of tons can possibly fly in the first
work. Over the decades airspace became
place (see box, above right).
more and more crowded, planes bigger and
10
bigger, the world smaller and smaller. In
Measured by accident statistics and dis-
1924 an American torpedo bomber took
tances traveled, the aircraft is not only the
contact 3.10
Flying Technology & Safety
HOW CAN AN AIRPLANE FLY?
Bernoulli’s principle on fluid dynamics explains the physics of flight. The secret lies in the profile and form of the
airfoils. In simple terms, the wings must be curved on top. This means air flowing immediately above the wing
travels a longer distance than air flowing beneath the wing – a vacuum forms on top, pressure builds below. An
aircraft overcomes gravity by means of thrust from its engines and the position of the elevator flaps located on
its tail wing. Once aloft, the plane’s construction and the shape of its airfoils keep it suspended in the air. Depending on size, an aircraft requires a minimum speed of 100 to 300 km/h for takeoff.
AVIATION MILESTONES
1891: Otto Lilienthal carries out the first flights, with gliders of his own invention
1903: Orville Wright conducts the first motorized flight – reaching a distance of 36 meters
1909: Louis Blériot becomes the first pilot to cross the English Channel, in his monoplane Blériot XI
1914: The world’s first airline flight, from London to Paris
1919: British aviators John Alcock and Arthur Witten Brown cross the Atlantic
1927: Charles Lindbergh completes the first solo crossing of the Atlantic, from New York to Paris
1947: Charles Elwood Yeager breaks the sound barrier in horizontal flight
1949: Virgin flight of the de Havilland DH 106 Comet, the first civilian jet aircraft
1969: Virgin flight of the famous jumbo jet Boeing 747
1980: Günther Rochelt undertakes the first flight in a solar-powered aircraft
1986: Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager complete the first nonstop flight around the world (without refueling)
2005: Virgin flight of the A380, the world’s biggest passenger airplane. Capacity: 800 passengers
2009: Virgin flight of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the first passenger aircraft made mostly of carbon fiber
The sky’s the limit: with
passenger numbers increasing
rapidly, scientists are working
at full speed to develop
environmentally compatible
aircraft technology.
contact 3.10
11
fastest, but also the safest transport mode
Crossing the Atlantic on fuel cells
available. This is partly because so many
Environmental demands present today’s
people work to keep the aviation industry
experts with challenges on the same scale
aloft: in design, construction and mainte-
as those faced by the pioneers of motorized
nance of aircraft and airports, the highest
passenger aviation 100 years ago. Scien-
safety requirements apply at all times. Ac-
tists are conducting research at a feverish
cordingly, TÜV Rheinland’s comprehensive
pace on alternative fuels, including kero-
know-how in many areas of international
sene derived from seaweed. Specialists are
aviation is in constant demand (see box).
even discussing a reduction in flying speed
And the trend can be expected to contin-
– actual time saved does not always justify
ue.
the excess fuel consumption at higher
speeds. More energy-efficient propulsion
New airports are no solution
technologies are also coming closer to real-
Air traffic will continue to boom as a result
life deployment on a large scale: test flights
of ongoing globalization and safety de-
of photovoltaic aircraft keep making head-
mands will increase with it. Even cautious
lines, and a spectacular Atlantic crossing
Caring for the most vulnerable:
forecasts predict a doubling of passenger
using fuel cells alone is planned to take
Parents can now use children’s
volumes approximately every 15 years. Air
place as early as 2012. The goal: to cut back
car seats on airplanes. TÜV
freight is experiencing similar growth: since
kerosene usage – and thus CO2 emissions
Rheinland has developed a te-
2001, international cargo business has ex-
– on a massive scale. TÜV Rheinland is cur-
sting process that is now inte-
panded from 28.8 million tons to 44.2 mil-
rently developing safety standards for the
grated in European aircraft ope-
lion tons annually. More flights, more pas-
operation and maintenance of fuel cells for
rating regulations. Suitable child
sengers, more goods: 230 airlines are
use in commercial aviation.
seats are marked with the TÜV
registered with the International Air Trans-
Rheinland label “For use in air-
port Association (IATA) alone. More than
Anti-turbulence sensors
1600 airports worldwide handle around 93
The future of aviation promises to be ex-
percent of international air traffic. Many of
citing: engineers are working hard on ideas
them are approaching the limits of their
that could technologically revolutionize air
capacity. “Building new airports in outlying
travel by the year 2050. These include en-
areas doesn’t help much – it just raises more
gines integrated into the fuselage and new
In brief: The dependency glo-
questions,” says Martin Sperber from TÜV
materials and construction methods that
bal societies on air traffic be-
Rheinland. The answers lie in intelligent
reduce fuel consumption as well as self-
came clear in April 2010. Ash
intermodal solutions connecting rail, road
cleaning passenger seats and anti-turbu-
from an Icelandic volcano
and air traffic, as well as in reduction of
lence sensors to counter the effects of air
spread across Europe – with
cost-intensive waiting and turnaround
pockets. All are realistic engineering objec-
devastating consequences: up
times, new sources of income to secure the
tives – the required technologies already
to 2.5 billion euros in lost
long-term financial viability of highly com-
exist – but they must be adapted for imple-
sales and 100,000 canceled
plex airports in an age of discount tickets
mentation.
flights, according to the EU
and harmonization of European and global
Author Frank Schätzing envisions the revo-
Commission.
air traffic to avoid unnecessary waits and
lution much earlier: in his thriller novel “Lim-
detours.
it,” mankind overcomes the barrier of the
earth’s atmosphere by 2025 – with a space
elevator to the moon.
craft.”
INFORMATION
Martin Sperber
[email protected]
+49 221 806-1771
12
contact 3.10
Flying Technology & Safety
VOICES
“We chose TÜV Rheinland above all because the quality of this type of service is the top priority in a highly
complex airport. From expert technical opinions on the refurbishment of a roof to the inspection of extremely
sophisticated special equipment – with TÜV Rheinland, we have a qualified partner for each discipline. And in
case I need help right away, the colleagues are always there for me.”
Udo Nuss, technical manager at the Cologne-Bonn Airport
TÜV RHEINLAND’S SERVICES FOR THE AVIATION INDUSTRY
Aircraft manufacturers and suppliers: R&D consulting on aircraft components and products such as
seats and safety belt systems; analysis of construction and operation regulations; development of test plans
and completion of tests; quality management certification
Airlines: Consulting on procurement of cabin furnishings as well as on cabin safety and all questions related
to operational safety and equipment failure; implementation of IT security measures; staff qualification and
management; certification “Child’s seat welcome” for use of
Airport operation and safety: Support in all phases in-
children’s car seats in aircraft
cluding approval, planning,
construction, operation and relocation; risk and project management; support in compliance with operator regulations and
airport processes such as passenger, luggage and aircraft
handling; safety & security e.g. in facility management and IT
communication; noise measurements as required for approval, acoustic tests, emissions prognoses, noise reduction, acoustic planning and assessment
Airport logistics: Consulting, expert opinions, certification in aviation and non-aviation areas; staff services
contact 3.10
13
Facts
and Figures
THE WORLD COMES
TO TÜV RHEINLAND
A lively exchange: a delegation from Bangalore recently met with experts from TÜV Rheinland to discuss training opportunities for Indian
specialists in the field of renewable energy. As part of a collaboration
with Jain University Bangalore, the Indian professors visited several
research facilities in the Cologne region and also made a detour to the
TÜV Rheinland headquarters. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation (BMZ) is a further project partner. In addition, delegates
from East Africa visited the head office of TÜV Rheinland to learn about
the development of a regional infrastructure for norms, testing and
quality management. TÜV Rheinland also initiated the Korolev Energy
Forum, where Russian and German representatives from politics and
business discussed the energy-efficient modernization of Russian residential buildings.
Information: Gorica Glisic, [email protected]
ENERGETIC
DISCOURSE
Cooperation in the areas of electromobility and
urban development was the focus of the German-Chinese Dialog Forum (DCD), which was
recently chaired by Professor Dr. Bruno O.
Braun for the first time. Initiated in 2005 by the
Chinese and German governments, the forum
brings together the executive boards of several
major corporations, members of the German
Bundestag and the European Parliament, as
well as media, cultural and legal representatives.
Under the leadership of Professor Dr. Braun,
President of the Supervisory Board of TÜV
Rheinland and President of the Association of
German Engineers (VDI), the German delega–
tion met with the Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao
and the German Federal Chancellor Angela
Further education by the Rhine: the professors from Jain
University Bangalore during their visit to TÜV Rheinland.
14
Merkel, among other guests.
Information: Hartmut Müller-Gerbes,
[email protected]
contact 3.10
CONCEPTS FOR THE FIGHT
AGAINST CORRUPTION
Compliance means observing standards, laws and guidelines. Together with sustainability and corporate social responsibility, it is considered one of the key areas
of responsible company management. After all, businesses can be severely
damaged by corruption or the illegal conduct of individual employees. During a
management symposium held by TÜV Rheinland in early October at the Nürburgring, the participants focused on practical concepts and measures that can be
readily implemented. TÜV Rheinland informed around 50 decision makers from
the business and industrial sectors about the potential benefits of risk analysis, IT
and corporate governance. As a neutral testing services provider that enjoys widespread social acceptance as well as high levels of respect and trust, TÜV Rheinland itself also places a strong emphasis on the topic of compliance. To address
CERTIFIED
SERVICES
the challenges of its day-to-day business and offer each employee the assistance
they need, it has developed a company-wide compliance program. This includes
TÜV Rheinland has certified the quality and envi-
preventative measures to identify unacceptable behavior, with a particular focus
ronmental management system of Deutsche Post
on corruption. The goal is to promote transparency on both an internal and an
Real Estate Germany. Under the leadership of
external level.
Erich Grünes, six auditors inspected the Bonn
Information: [email protected]; [email protected]
headquarters of the Deutsche Post DHL subsidiary, as well as assessing 16 additional locations.
The simultaneous certification of the headquarters
and the other offices created distinct synergy ef-
A POSITIVE BALANCE
fects. Deutsche Post Real Estate Germany employs more than 1,000 staff members whose duties include managing the buildings controlled by
Evonik Degussa is the first manufacturer of
the Deutsche Post. Now that it has obtained certi-
amino acids for animal feed to have under-
fication, the company plans to present itself even
taken a comparative environmental perform-
more actively as a service provider for comprehen-
ance assessment. The results showed that throughout their entire life cycle –
sive real estate management.
from the extraction of raw materials to the manufacturing process and agricultural
usage – the synthetic amino acids produced by Evonik have less impact on the
Information: Erich Grünes,
[email protected]
environment than organically generated amino acids made from wheat or soya.
TÜV Rheinland has now certified these findings. In addition to the professional
evaluation of existing studies, TÜV Rheinland also issues and certifies eco-balance sheets and performs ecological efficiency analyses, as well as creating
product/corporate carbon footprints and water footprints.
Information: Bahar Cat-Krause, [email protected]
contact 3.10
15
16
Technology & Safety Winter Sports
ICED IN – BUT SAFE
AND SOUND!
On the slopes: eyewear and helmets
On ice: skates
A good helmet must fit perfectly, neither too loose nor
In a skate, the most important thing is a good fit: the boot
too tight. It’s best to try on several different models be-
– often leather, but increasingly made of synthetic mate-
fore purchasing. The rule of thumb: Class A and B hel-
rials – must offer especially good support and safety in
mets are suitable for Alpine skiing, snowboarding and
ankle area. At the same time, it must not be too tight, as
other similar activities. Class B helmets generally offer
this can lead to painful blisters. Soft-boot ice skates with
better ventilation and less hearing obstruction, but pro-
foam rubber inners provide a comfortable fit, while the
tect a smaller area of the head and are less resistant to
plastic outer shells protect the feet in the event of a fall.
penetration, e.g. by sharp rocks, in the event of a fall.
Hobby athletes are well advised to choose hockey skates.
When it comes to eyewear, winter sports enthusiasts
Their reinforced outer shells protect against collisions and
should pay attention not only comfort and ample ventila-
other impacts, like hockey stick blows. Classic leather
tion, but also to protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays as
figure skating skates are best for pirouettes. And anyone
well as the right tinting for the weather conditions. For
wishing to glide across a frozen lake should first make
sunny weather, Category 3 is recommended: the lenses
sure that it has been officially declared safe for skating.
are deeply shaded and offer the highest level of UV pro-
Conclusion: attention should be paid to a good fit,
tection. Conclusion: a good fit, ventilation, safety and
comfort and the GS Mark of approval.
the GS GS Mark of approval are the decisive criteria.
16
contact 3.10
From snow-covered mountains to frozen lakes, the cold season offers plenty of
INFORMATION
great sports opportunities – provided you have the right equipment. TÜV Rhein-
Britta Behnert
[email protected]
+49 221 806-2430
land tests winter sports products for safety on a regularly basis, and has some
good advice on how to choose
your gear.
oose y
Downhill all the way: sleds
ds
Vacation time: roof boxes for skis
A winter highlight for children:
down a snown: sliding
slidi
Head for the hills: before setting out by car for a winter vaca-
covered hill with mom and dad. The safest way down is
tion, everything must be properly stowed in order to keep the
on a sled bearing the GS Mark. The approval, issued by
vehicle balanced and avoid risk of accident. Luggage should be
TÜV Rheinland, guarantees that the sleigh or toboggan
distributed evenly in the trunk – heavy suitcases at the bottom,
will hold up under the weight of all passengers. The skids
lighter items on top. Use a roof box or rack bearing the GS Mark
or runners should be formed to keep the vehicle on track.
to carry winter sports gear. Important: the weight must not ex-
A word of caution when using inflatable sleds or saucer
ceed the vehicle’s maximum roof load. Check to ensure all items
sleds: the absence of runners makes them difficult to
remain secured during regular rest stops. Before starting the
keep under control. This is especially the case for small
trip, adjust tire pressure to the additional weight and make sure
children, whose motor skills are not yet fully developed.
the headlights are set to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers. And
Sleds equipped with steering wheels are also unsuitable
remember: due to the load, your braking distance is longer.
for children, as they are too challenging to handle.
Thinking ahead is even more important than during regular dri-
Conclusion: the intended use must be considered be-
ving. Conclusion: attention must be paid to correct stow-
fore purchasing a sled. Whichever model is chosen, it
age, maximum roof load and headlight positioning; extra
should bear the GS Mark of approval.
caution is required when driving and roof racks or boxes
should bear the GS Mark of approval.
contact 3.10
17
A
PERFECT
CYCLE
Dr. Christoph Lüpschen is considered a
pioneer in the field of biogas investment. The 43-year-old holds a doctorate in agricultural engineering and
runs a farm with 400 head of cattle in
the Cologne region.
On his own initiative, agriculturist Dr. Christoph Lüpschen dared to take a big step towards alternative
energy production. Together with several partners,
he constructed a highly efficient biogas plant on his
farm. Dr. Frank Voßloh, Executive Director of the Industrial Services Business Stream at TÜV Rheinland,
spoke with Dr. Lüpschen about his motives, the process and its success.
Voßloh: Dr. Lüpschen, you built a biogas plant on your
farm. Why?
Lüpschen: I mainly wanted to play an active role in protecting the environment, but economic considerations
were also a factor. The plant gives me the opportunity to
increase the revenue of my agricultural business. And the
income security provided by the German Renewable
Energy Sources Act (EEG) was important to me, too. Together with several like-minded cooperation partners, I
founded the “Rhein-Energie Biokraft Objekt Scheiderhöhe GmbH”, which runs the plant as an association.
Voßloh: Can you reveal some details about it?
Lüpschen: It’s a so-called co-fermentation plant, which
doesn’t just process liquid manure but also other organic
substances. It supplies my farm, as well as a neighboring
business and an inn with district heating. The electricity
generated by the gas turbines is fed into the power grid.
Manure, slurry, food leftovers and fats provide the “fuel”.
We need about 60 tons of this per day and the biogas
plant produces 800 kilowatts of electricity per hour in
total. I also run a photovoltaic system that generates up
to another 210 kilowatts. Of course, the investment costs
of around four million euros are significantly higher than
for a “normal” biogas plant.
Voßloh: And how have your experiences been so far?
18
contact 3.10
Biogas Technology & Safety
DEVELOPMENT OF BIOGAS PLANT CONSTRUCTION IN GERMANY
2,300
Installed power capacity
2,000
1,893
4,900
5,000
Number of plants
5,800
Number of biogas plants
5,500
1,500
4,500
4,000
1,000
3,500
3,000
500
2,500
Installed power capacity (MW)
6,000
2,000
1,500
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Lüpschen: The local attitude was highly positive right
TÜV RHEINLAND AS A PARTNER
from the start and the council also voted strongly in our
favor. The conditions were ideal! However, the authoriza-
There are currently around 5,800 biogas plants
tion process took an extremely long time due to the pilot
in Germany. International figures are not yet
nature of the project. The plant’s construction was initially
available. Over the past decade, the industry in
subject to council approval and if the authorities had re-
Germany has grown by 425 percent. Biogas is
fused to endorse it, we would have had to pull it all down
primarily used to operate block heat and power
and reimburse everybody. We took a big risk but it paid
plants, which generate electricity that can then
off in the end and we’re very proud of the plant.
be fed into the power grid. The resulting waste
Voßloh: What were the greatest difficulties?
heat is employed for heating and other purpo-
Lüpschen: For me, the biggest challenge was coming to
ses. Biogas can also be fed into the public elec-
terms with the legal requirements and approval proce-
tricity grid via micro gas networks or used to
dures. They’re very complicated in Germany and novices
fuel vehicles. It is important to know whether a
have a hard time keeping up. We then encountered un-
plant requires authorization according to the
expected problems during the approval process. To start
German Federal Immission Control Act (BIm-
with, the planned location next to my farmyard was rejec-
SchG). It must also fulfill additional legal requi-
ted, even though there wasn’t a single objection in the
rements. TÜV Rheinland assists aspiring opera-
neighborhood and we’d received plenty of support
tors with the approval process and performs all
instead! There were several critical aspects of the ap-
the necessary technical inspections, including
proval process that we should have known about during
safety and immissions tests, risk assessment
the planning phase.
and the compilation of explosion protection do-
Voßloh: What would you do differently today?
cuments.
Lüpschen: Right from the planning stage, I would make
sure I had the support of experts who could guide me
through the approval procedures, relieve me of some of
the workload and warn me about potential problems. In
hindsight, I really could have done with the specialists
from TÜV Rheinland.
Voßloh: Dr. Lüpschen, thank you for your time today.
contact 3.10
INFORMATION
Dr. Frank Vossloh
[email protected]
+49 221 806-2424
19
GREEN OIL
FACTS & FIGURES
Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis)
Height: up to 30 meters
Palm oil is used everywhere in daily life. However, its extraction is highly contentious from both an ethical and a socioeconomic standpoint. TÜV Rheinland certifies sustainable
production methods in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia.
Yield: up to 50 kg of fruit
Pulp: consists of 45 - 50% oil
Palm oil: is extracted from
The Elaeis guineensis is in great demand.
investors and banks. The board is made up
the pulp
More oil per hectare of crop land can be
of 303 members, of which 282 are busi-
obtained from its fruit than from any other
nesses and the remaining 21 are environ-
Each palm can only be used for
plant. Originating in Africa, the oil palms are
mental and social organizations.
oil production for 25 years
now primarily being planted in Southeast
Usage: food (margarine, salad/
to the economy. To put that in numbers:
For minimum wages, against
child labor
cooking oil, chocolate, potato
one hectare of palm oil plantation yields up
Since receiving accreditation from the
chips), cosmetics (creams, make-
to four tons of oil per year. By comparison,
Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO),
up), cleaning agents, biofuels
the same surface area of rapeseed only
TÜV Rheinland has primarily certified enor-
delivers a paltry 0.6 tons of oil a year.
mous palm oil plantations in Malaysia and
Producing regions: Malaysia,
Around the world, palm oil production
Indonesia. “Our auditors visit the plan-
Indonesia, Thailand, Nigeria,
levels have doubled since 1995 – and are
tations to ensure that the guidelines for
Columbia, Brazil
likely to keep rising. New plantations are
sustainable production are being met,”
being created every day, often by slashing
explains Manfred Lottig, Executive Director
Main producers: Malaysia and
and burning virgin forests. That poses a
of TÜV Rheinland in Malaysia. “We answer
Indonesia account for 85% of the
considerable threat to the environment
questions like: ‘Have virgin forests been
global production
because the layers of peat on the forest
cleared to build the plantation or have the
floor trap vast amounts of CO2, which are
natural resources been preserved? What
Principal customers: Europe,
released during burning.
are the working conditions like? Do the
Asia, where they are extremely beneficial
employees earn a minimum wage and are
India, China, Japan
Protecting the environment
any children being forced to work there?’”
Annual global production:
The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil
reports Ng Siew Theng Carol.
ca. 46 million tons
(RSPO) has been working for many years
Each audit lasts around five days and is
to promote sustainable methods of palm
conducted by four to five independent
RSPO: initiated in 2003 by the
oil production and thereby minimize envi-
assessors. The experts cover countless
WWF; now has over 350 members
ronmental damage. In addition to environ-
kilometers in Indonesia and Malaysia be-
mental protection organizations and other
cause many plantations are located far
NGOs (non-governmental organizations),
from the major cities. “Our on-site work is
its members mainly include companies and
not without danger,” says Manfred Lottig.
institutions from the palm oil manufactur-
“Because the plantations are a long way
ing industry, such as plantation operators,
out in jungle areas, we do come across the
dealers and industrial purchasers, but also
odd tiger – but luckily only from a distance.”
20
contact 3.10
Palm Oil Trends & Innovation
Carol Ng certifies palm oil
plantations according to criteria
specified by the RSPO.
The auditors are also there to help preserve
the diverse array of wildlife. “The standards
governing environmental compatibility are
our main priority at the plantations,” explains Carol Ng.
17 plantations already audited
The auditors from TÜV Rheinland also recently started working in Thailand. There,
they helped the responsible authorities
develop a set of certification guidelines that
comply with the RSPO standards, as well
as the national laws. Since the beginning of
2010, TÜV Rheinland has audited 17 plantations and certified five. The latter are all
located in Indonesia. Around 14 plantations
failed the initial inspection but were given
the chance to make improvements and
undergo a second audit.
The goal is to certify all palm oil producers according to the RSPO regulations
by 2015. Consumers can choose sustainably manufactured palm oil by looking
for the RSPO logo on each product’s
packaging.
INFORMATION
Manfred Lottig
[email protected]
+6 03 8024 2400
contact 3.10
21
Trends & Innovation Wood
INFORMATION
Dr. Markus Boner
Executive Director
TÜV Rheinland Agroisolab GmbH
[email protected]
+49 24 61 93 13 4 - 0
80 percent of the world’s rain forests are now destroyed – due to illegal
forestry. TÜV Rheinland has developed a method that allows precise tracing of wood back to its origin. The service promises to be of considerable value to import authorities and the forestry industry from 2012 on.
and products made using them, which
takes effect in 2012, TÜV Rheinland has
developed a method that allows regionspecific tracing. With this move, TÜV
Rheinland is assuming a key role in the
worldwide fight for more transparency in
the forestry market. The innovative service promises to be especially interesting
for customs authorities and government
institutions. “Using a physical process,
we can trace trees back to within 100 to
200 kilometers of their origins,” explains
Dr. Markus Boner, tracing expert with TÜV
Rheinland. Stable isotopes like carbon and
nitrogen are the key to success. Based on
For the poor it’s a matter of life and death:
illegally felled trees are used to build desperately needed shelter or serve as fuel where
no other source of energy is available. In
addition, selling poached wood is often the
13 million hectares of forest are
lost to illegal forestry each year.
The economic damage: 15 billion
US dollars annually.
the distribution and concentration of the
plant’s nuclides, the TÜV Rheinland wood
detectives can precisely identify a tree’s
country and region of origin. In addition,
TÜV Rheinland is working on an inter-
only way to earn enough to feed a family.
national isotope database, which could
Uncontrolled corporate greed, corruption
and often too slack national laws intensify
the earth have already fallen victim to
further accelerate the tracing process. “As
a problem that is especially severe in deve-
illegal forestry. As ecologically valua-
an independent testing company, we’re
loping countries, but also occurs in Western
ble forests disappear and sustainable
contributing this way to compliance with
Europe and Russia. Experts estimate the
forestry is hindered, desertification is
legal forestry guidelines,” says Dr. Markus
proportion of illegally felled wood on the
increasing and agricultural land is threa-
Boner. Verification of origin by TÜV
global market at 40 percent. In the EU, fur-
tened. Governments and environmental
Rheinland will also be important for EU
niture, floor materials and paper still contain
groups all over the world have been
importers: they will be required to prove
around 19 percent protected wood.
working for years on strategies to com-
that their products are in fact based on
bat illegal deforestation. But up to now
legal forestry. Although there is currently
Mandatory declaration
positive proof of a trafficking has been
no schedule of fines in place, consumers
The results are fatal: around 80 percent
difficult to obtain. To coincide with the
can already take action: legal wood can be
of the rain forests that once covered
EU-wide import ban on protected woods
recognized by the FSC seal.
22
contact 3.10
Vintage Cars Markets & Expertise
Sven Kamerar is 42 and drives a 30-year-old
Special edition for a
car – a 1980 Bentley T2 – at least once a
maharajah: the Rolls
week. According to German law, the classic
Royce Phantom II from
British vehicle only just counts as a vintage
1934, also known as the
car. The journalist already fulfilled his adole-
“Star of India”
scent dream of owning a historical vehicle
at a very young age. By comparison, Wolfgang Rücker only start-ed indulging his passion for classic cars much later in life, but
fell for them even harder to make up for it.
His first purchase was a 1927 Humber, followed by a Horch 853 built in 1935 and a
Bentley 4.5 liter LeMans racing car from
1928. The 65-year-old regularly takes part in
rallies and recreational outings. “When I’m
DUCK BEATS
PORSCHE
around these cars, I become immersed
another world,” enthuses the businessman. But that’s enough about the fun side
of things. What about the costs? Vintage
car lovers invest a great deal in their precious metal treasures. “A historical car is an
contact 3.10
Vintage cars are both an exciting and an elaborate hobby. Their
owners are enthusiasts who invest a lot of time and money in
their vehicles. Some are rewarded by an increase in value. But
then again, who would ever want to sell their treasure on
wheels?
23
antique that has to be correct-
1.9 percent for the first time over the past
ly stored, cared for and
six months.
maintained,” says Rücker.
However, the VDA doesn’t want this perfor-
For example, Kamerar takes
mance to be seen as a recommendation.
his car to a Bentley specia-
“While our index might display trends, the
list for maintenance and
positive overall market development in the
repairs.
past doesn’t necessarily mean that individu-
There, they know what
al vehicles will continue to increase in value
they’re doing and have
in the future,” warns Stefan Röhrig from
the right specialty tools.
the VDA. “Vintage cars should be bought
By contrast, the fixed
by people who enjoy them and can afford
costs are barely worth
to maintain them in the long term.” The
mentioning.
cars
THE ENTRY-LEVEL
Fiat Dino Coupé 2.4 S
with a Ferrari engine.
Year: 1971. Value:
20,700 to 24,200 euros
(source: oldtimer-info.de)
are
Classic
index only serves as a rough guideline be-
relatively
cause different versions of the same model
cheap to insure be-
sell for wildly different prices depending on
cause the owners typically
the cars’ condition. And as public tastes
drive infrequently and safely, while other
change, the price development also varies
motorists take greater care than usual
greatly from model to model. Interestingly,
when they spot one of the valuable rarities
luxury cars don’t top the list of vehicles that
on the road. The taxes are also reasonable.
have gained the most value. Instead, the
Since receiving the German “H” license
first two positions are held by former bread-
plate for historical vehicles, Kamerar has
and-butter cars. First place in the German
paid just under 200 euros a
vintage car index goes to the Citroën 2CV
year for his Bentley.
(lovingly known as the “Ente”, or “Duck”),
“When my car was still
followed by the Fiat 500. The Porsche 924
29 years old, I had to fork
currently ranks third. However just six
out around 1,700 euros in
months ago, its owners had to make do
car tax – which is hardly
with eleventh place.
surprising considering that
it has a displacement of 6.8
Age alone isn’t enough
liters and no catalytic con-
Regardless of whether it’s intended for per-
verter.”
sonal use or as an investment object, a
vintage car only becomes truly exciting on-
THE ICING ON THE CAKE
Lancia Astura, Boneschi convertible. Year: 1938.
Collectors often pay sixfigure sums for rarities of
this class.
24
Value enhancement of up
ce it has been officially approved and regis-
to six percent
tered as a historical vehicle. One of the re-
And are classic vehicles a good
quirements is a full inspection by a testing
investment, as some financial
organization like TÜV Rheinland, particularly
media sources claim? A glance
if the vehicle has remained unregistered for
at the German vintage car index
a long time, if it has been imported from
(Deutscher Oldtimer-Index, or
abroad, or if the registration documents
DOX) published by the German
have gone missing. Sometimes, detective
Association of the Automotive
skills are also necessary: the experts pore
Industry (VDA) seems to back
over the relevant literature or search the
them up. Representing 88 classic post-war
Internet to piece together the technical da-
vehicles, the index rose steadily by a re-
ta, often with success.
spectable 5.7 percent per year between
The vintage car certificate is another import-
1999 and 2009. It only dropped slightly by
ant prerequisite for registration – and also
contact 3.10
Vintage Cars Markets & Expertise
INFORMATION
Roland Zangers
[email protected]
+49 2161 822-126
THE CONSERVATI
CONSERVATIVE
IVE
E
Mercedes Benz 300 SE Coupé,
built in 1965, currently worth
39,500 to 46,200 euros
(source: oldtimer-info.de)
THE FAVORITE
The Citroen 2CV AZU 250,
built in 1954, selling for 5,500
to 6,400 euros
(source: oldtimer-info.de)
for the cheaper classic vehicle insurance
OVERVIEW
rates. “It’s not enough for a car to simply
be older than 30 years,” explains Roland
COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE FOR RARE VEHICLES
Zangers, authorized inspector with TÜV
Rheinland in Mönchengladbach. “We also
Have the registration documents gone missing? Has your vintage
check whether the vehicle is in a condition
car been unregistered for a long time? Or do you want to sell
that’s worth preserving and whether it’s
your investment at a profit? The specialists from TÜV Rheinland
mainly made of original parts.”
can help answer these questions and many more. The following
While certain retrofitted components such
services are tailor-made for the world of classic cars:
as indicators and safety belts are permitted
or even compulsory, others are considered
Evaluation
Full inspection
taboo. “For example, a modern tuned en-
for insurance purposes or a planned
if the car has been permanently
gine is a no-go,” says the classic car expert.
sale
deregistered or has remained unregi-
“Especially so-called hot rods that have un-
Damage assessment
stered for more than seven years
dergone major technical and optical changes
following an accident
Advice
have no chance of being accepted as vin-
Vintage car certificate
on restoration or maintenance issues
tage cars.”
to obtain a German “H” license plate
Data acquisition
Proof of authenticity
for imported vehicles or lost docu-
for frame and body components
ments
Alteration approval
Historical motorsports
for the use of parts other than those
vehicle inspections and services at vin-
specified in the registration documents
tage car rallies
contact 3.10
25
1961
People & Environment 50 Years of General Inspections
1935
19
35
194
19
40
0
1945
19
45
1950
19
50
1955
19
95
55
5
19
96
60
0
19
1
96
65
5
EXPERTISE AND GUT INSTINCT
The inspection sticker required for vehicles registered in Germany looks back on a 50-year history. Egon Seul,
former officially authorized motor vehicle expert with TÜV Rheinland, thinks back on the hard day-to-day work
during the Economic Miracle. Today TÜV Rheinland uses high-tech methods to conduct four million vehicle inspections annually on a global scale and remains the largest inspection company in the world.
Where it all start-
In the late 1950s the Federal Republic is in
ce can now identify negligent latecomers
ed: in the fifties,
the middle of a massive upswing: the Eco-
who fail to have their vehicles inspected on
the queues at the
nomic Miracle. The number of new vehicle
time. The result: an avalanche of cars
inspection centers
registrations shoots up from around 565,000
overruns the inspection centers. As Egon
were still quite
in 1957 to just under one million in 1960.
Seul, then authorized expert at TÜV Rhein-
manageable. That
Since 1951 authorities have been sending
land in Cologne, remembers, “Sometimes
changed dramati-
out “invitations” to regular vehicle inspec-
we had 400 vehicles at once in the yard.”
cally in 1961 when
tions, later to be termed general inspection
For this reason, TÜV Rheinland opens a
testing became
(Hauptuntersuchung, HU), to car owners.
temporary “branch office” in a parking lot.
mandatory.
But the boom is too much for the authori-
In wind and rain, the experts crawl under a
ties, and there are no official control mecha-
ramp to inspect cars from the underside. A
nisms. In an increasingly motorized country,
board offers minimal protection from the
traffic safety is endangered. Accident statis-
hard asphalt. “Where we now have the bra-
tics – including those caused by technical
ke test bench, back then we had nothing but
defects – rise considerably. At least motor
gut feeling to go on,” says the 76-year-old
vehicle registration laws undergo a far-reach-
with a smile. In line with increased aware-
ing reform: as of January 1961, the general
ness of the importance of environmental
inspection sticker, indicating when the next
protection, the smog check program (Ab-
inspection is due and affixed to the rear li-
gassonderuntersuchung, ASU) becomes
cense plate, is introduced. At a glance, poli-
mandatory in April 1985 – initially for gaso-
INFORMATION
Hans-Ulrich Sander
[email protected]
+49 221 806-3966
26
contact 3.10
2011
1970
19
70
19
1
975
75
1980
19
80
19
1
985
85
199
19
1990
90
0
199
19
1995
95
5
200
20
00
0
200
20
05
5
2010
20
10
2015
20
5
Pioneering era:
Focusing on environ-
general inspections
mental protection:
following the general
at mobile (l.) and
Headlamp testing
regular (r.) test
back then: an inspec-
inspection, the
centers in the
tor checks that the
smog check program
1960s.
lights are correctly
becomes mandatory
adjusted.
in 1985.
contact 3.10
line-powered vehicles, and as of 1993 for
TÜV Rheinland carries out around four million
diesel as well. In 2006 tests of electronically
vehicle inspections annually. In Latvia’s capital,
controlled systems like airbags, ABS and
Riga, the company operates the world’s lar-
ESP become part of the general inspection.
gest testing station, a 12-lane facility. And the
As of 2010 the emissions check becomes
general inspection has already entered the
part of the general inspection, and the text
future: alternative propulsion technologies like
hexagonal sticker formerly affixed to the
gas, electricity and hybrid solutions are part of
front license plate disappears.
day-to-day business. TÜV Rheinland certifies
Today TÜV Rheinland’s international vehicle
testing facilities and service centers and trains
safety inspection activities have gone high-
professionals to handle new-generation vehi-
tech. The success of the general inspection
cles throughout the entire value chain. “Our
speaks for itself: in Germany alone, annual
rule is: the electrical vehicle with its high-volt-
traffic fatalities sank to 4152 in 2009, an all-
age technology and special drive systems
time low since large-scale motorization began
must be as safe as a conventional car in every
in the 1950s. From France, Germany, Spain
way,” explains Dr. Thomas Aubel, Executive
and Latvia to Argentina, Chile and Senegal,
Vice President Mobility with TÜV Rheinland.
27
People & Environment Asian Oktoberfest
SAUSAGES REPLACE
SUSHI
“O’zapft ist!” When this drinking call rings out in Munich, not only the Bavarian capital rejoices.
The world’s biggest traditional folk festival is a hit – especially in Asia.
It’s been 200 years since King Ludwig I of
visitors amused themselves in more than
ated their own versions of Bavarian folk
Bavaria launched Oktoberfest together with
30 tents, consuming about 300,000 liters of
dances. The atmosphere was designed to
Princess Therese, and it now attracts up to
beer to revive throats that were parched
be as close to the original as possible – and
six million fans to the Southern German
from singing.
just as festive, of course. “Oktoberfest is a
metropolis each year. All over the world,
The Asian revelers celebrated with similar
good opportunity to strengthen our busi-
roughly the same number of people cel-
zeal and euphoria to the German creators.
ness relationships in a relaxed environ-
Those who could get them even
ment,” explains Dr. Tatiana Tarasova from
dressed up in lederhosen or a
TÜV Rheinland in Japan. It’s become quite
For example, TÜV Rheinland
dirndl. They
The downed their one-
socially acceptable in Japan to relax the nor-
has been delighting its interna-
liter mugs of beer to traditional
mally strict rules of etiquette and hierarchy
tional staff and customers
Bavarian brass tunes and cre-
during Oktoberfest. “The guests really enjoy
ebrate simultaneously with mini festi
festivals in their own home towns.
with regular invitations to local
activities for many years. The
Bavarian beer fest is also a
much loved event in numerous
Chinese and Taiwanese cities.
In 2010, the biggest Chinese
festival to follow Munich’s example took place in the former
German colony of Qingdao.
Over the course of three
weekends, around 600,000
28
celebrating and engaging in games and
Asians place great
value on tradition
– even when it
comes to other
cultures.
INFORMATION
Dr. Tatiana Tarasova
[email protected]
+81 45 470 1880
other activities,” adds Dr. Tarasova. Incidentally, both the Japanese and the Chinese
also place great value on “exotic” fare such
as German “Wuerstl” sausages. In Asia,
October is the busiest season for butchers
with German ties and registered German
master brewers. And of course, the refreshments are served in a Bavarian-style atmosphere complete with Asian waitresses in
dirndls – a real hit with all the guests.
contact 3.10
Thomas Ernsting People & Environment
A DIFFERENT
PERSPECTIVE
As a child, he wanted to
be a zoo director. Now,
he captures people and
animals with his camera
to the delight of a broad
audience. Thomas
Ernsting’s shots for
Stern, GEO and National
Geographic draw attention to topics that are remote and new. A profile of
the popular feature and
technical photographer,
whose strengths include
curiosity and a perfect
sense of timing.
Experts adjust part
of a spectrum
analyzer at the
Rohde & Schwarz
electronics
corporation.
30
A ship is fitted
with a propeller in
the world’s largest
dry dock at the
Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg.
Measuring electromagnetic waves
(above) and simulating a collision
(below) at TÜV
Rheinland.
contact 3.10
Thomas Ernsting People & Environment
Thomas Ernsting owes his career to four
Weighing up his own creative output
women. Three elderly countrywomen from
Thomas Ernsting settled down a little after
a farm near his childhood home in Münster-
the birth of his two children and went
land were the stars of his first photo fea-
looking for an occupation that would keep
ture. He accompanied them with his cam-
him closer to home. He discovered techni-
era for a year, little knowing that the results
cal photography. He has since worked in
would later gain him one of the most pre-
the new St. Gotthard Tunnel and in car
stigious prizes in the photojournalism indus-
manufacturers’ wind tunnels, photographed
try. “I always wanted to work for GEO ma-
the shuttles at the Kennedy Space Center
gazine,” says Ernsting, “so I sent them
and examined an innovative, angular rocket
some of the photos but they were re-
in Oberpfaffenhofen. On one occasion, a
jected.”
jumbo jet was even rolled onto the airfield
Undeterred by this rebuff, Ernsting submit-
especially so that he could capture its
ted the feature to the renowned World
image in the sunset. After all, unusual pic-
Press Photo Contest. “When I asked if I
tures call for unusual measures.
could take part and explained that I wasn’t
The key to his success: “I try to transfer the
a photographer yet but wanted to become
principles of feature photography to the
one, they laughed themselves silly.” How-
world of technical photography.” When
ever, he was allowed to participate – and he
Ernsting accompanies the experts at work,
won. His photos were printed by the Ger-
he composes his pictures with technology
man magazine “Stern”. A short time later,
in the background and people in the leading
GEO contacted him again, this time with his
roles. Visitors to the TÜV Rheinland head-
first commission.
quarters in Cologne had the opportunity to
The fourth woman to strongly influence
experience the impact of his work this sum-
Ernsting’s career was his mother. “When I
mer: For the “Deutsche Technikstraße”
was young, I first wanted to become a zoo
(“German Engineering Road”) project,
director and then a photographer. My
which was initiated by the Association of
mother didn’t think either profession would
German Engineers (VDI) as part of the
earn me much money.” So they made a
“Sachen machen” (“Making things”) cam-
deal: “She promised to pay my living ex-
paign, he photographed high-tech locations
penses for a year so that I could establish
all over Germany – including TÜV Rheinland
myself as a photographer – but only after I
test centers – and created an awe-inspiring
had completed my studies.”
exhibition.
The dream of becoming a photographer
Be it children in Nepal or the aerodynamics
survived his studies in geodesy intact.
of a car, Ernsting always strives to arouse
Ernsting’s mother kept her promise and he
curiosity about the unknown, about far-
launched his career, later receiving commis-
away places and about new things. To ma-
sions that took him to the remotest corners
ke sure he succeeds, the 51-year-old con-
of Africa, Asia and Australia. The 51-year-old
stantly weighs up his own creative output:
has already taken photos for more than 50
“I focused on technology for a long time be-
feature articles in GEO alone.
fore suddenly realizing that something was
Building the St. Gotthard
Tunnel (above and center);
an artificial sky at the
Fraunhofer Institute for
Building Physics (below).
contact 3.10
31
People & Environment Thomas Ernsting
missing. Now, I choose at least one topic
Entering the caves is strictly prohibited right
of my own each year – at my own risk.” He
now,
most recently spent a year accompanying
Ernsting has certainly over-
a “music maker”.
come enough obstacles in the
Together with the instrument builder, he
past.
roamed the great outdoors, seeking the
Further information is available at:
right wood for a cello in the forest and
www.thomas-ernsting.de
but
who
knows:
testing the acoustics of a finished instrument in the river or on fallen tree trunks.
And how does he capture this sound in his
images? “I try to press the button at the
precise moment when the music maker’s
face tells me that everything’s in place and
that all is well.” Even after 25 years, all is
well with Ernsting, too. “Photography is
still my dream job.”
And he still has one dream subject: ancient
cave paintings captured the way people
must have seen them at the time – by firelight. He’s already carefully planned how
he will simulate the tongues of flame using
tiny flashes reflected off uneven surfaces.
Editorial Information
Publisher:
TÜV Rheinland Holding AG, Communication,
Am Grauen Stein, D-51105 Cologne
Phone: +49 221 806-4314
Editor: Aud Feller
Fax: +49 221 806-1760
Text: S+L Partners GmbH, Köln
Internet: www.tuv.com
Printing: Druckhaus Ley + Wiegandt, Wuppertal
Photo Credits: Thomas Wels: p. 3; TÜV Rheinland: p. 3; Getty Images.com, pp. 4-5; Dean Mouhtaropulos - gettyimages.com: pp. 6, 7; AP images - gettyimages.com: pp. 8, 9; Matthias Geipel - Fotolia.com: pp. 10, 11; Egor
Mopanko - iStockphoto: pp. 12, 13; Olga Solovei - iStockphoto.com: p. 12; TÜV Rheinland: pp. 14, 15; Deutsche
Post Real Estate Germany GmbH: p. 15; Andreas Steinhardt - iStockphoto: pp. 16, 17; Douglas Bray - iStockphoto.
com: p. 16; walik - iStockphoto.com: p. 16; Richard Georg - iStockphoto.com: p. 17; fryka - iStockphoto.com: p.
17; Reinhard Witt: p. 18; BildPix.de - Fotolia.com: p. 19; TÜV Rheinland: pp. 20, 21; Abbielmages - iStockphoto.
com: p. 22; TÜV Rheinland: p. 22; TÜV Rheinland: pp. 23, 24, 25; Franco Di Meo: p. 25; Miroslav Boskov: pp. 26, 27;
TÜV Rheinland: pp. 26, 27; Ina Peters - iStockphoto.com: p. 28; TÜV Rheinland: p. 28; Lothar Wels: p. 29; Thomas
Ernsting: pp. 30, 31, 32; artcop - Fotolia.com: S. 32;
Ident-No. 107770
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contact 3.10