FAQ

The environmental impact of manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles in China has partly motivated a strong European desire to relocate this industry. A number of battery factories are currently opening in Europe, particularly in the Hauts-de-France region, with the aim of equipping as many vehicles as possible with locally manufactured batteries. For example, the ACC plant inaugurated last September plans to produce 500,000 batteries a year by 2030, marking the return of this expertise to Europe.

This desire to produce batteries in Europe is crucial not only to preserve our industrial skills, but also to reduce the carbon footprint of electric vehicles. Today, the high carbon footprint of electric vehicles is largely due to the production of batteries in China, where the energy used is still highly polluting. By manufacturing them in Europe, we can further reduce the carbon footprint of vehicles, while strengthening our local expertise and limiting our dependence on foreign suppliers.

For an electric vehicle to be more polluting than a combustion vehicle, all the electricity would have to be generated by coal. Lifecycle analyses clearly show that electric vehicles emit fewer greenhouse gases and reduce air pollution. What's more, electric vehicles provide an effective solution in cities, where air and noise pollution are major concerns.

Electric vehicles suffer from this reputation. This has long been true, but you have to compare an electric vehicle with the equivalent internal combustion range, which costs roughly the same. The good news is that we are now seeing the arrival of new, smaller and more affordable models on the market, particularly from European manufacturers.

As a result, prices are starting to come down, with vehicles available for between €23,000 and €25,000 offering good battery performance. Although the purchase price may still be higher, the savings on running costs quickly make up for it.

In Monaco, for example, recharging is free, and in France, the cost of a quick charge (≃6.5€ per 100km) is significantly lower than that of a full tank of petrol (≃10.8€ per 100km with petrol at 1.9€ per litre), making electric vehicles around 40% cheaper to use.

Monaco ON charging points are in great demand, which just goes to show how successful they are. Fortunately, the Principality has a large number of charging points, with around 500 deployed throughout the country to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles.

The Sûreté Publique plays a key role in ensuring that the charging points are not occupied improperly, by penalising offenders. Thanks to this surveillance, statistics show a good turnover, enabling many vehicles to recharge every day.

As far as the complexity of recharging is concerned, it's true that switching to an electric vehicle means adapting to a new routine. That's why Monaco ON has been designed to make the transition as straightforward as possible: there's no need to have a card or install a charging point at home; charging is free, so all you have to do is plug in your vehicle.

The charging points are easy to spot thanks to their yellow colour, and their availability in real time can be consulted via the Your Monaco application. This system has been designed to make recharging easier, and we also provide a lot of information, such as the recharging guide.

In terms of the adaptability of the charging points to different vehicles, there are two types of charging: via a personal plug on low-power charging points or on high-power charging points equipped with various types of connector. Our chargepoints are equipped with the most common connector, but other types are also available. The Your Monaco application allows you to select the charging points based on the connector compatible with your vehicle.

A low environmental impact alternative to reduce GHG emissions:

• Electric vehicles VS combustion engines
• Download the recharging guide
• All the info on the Monaco On recharging infrastructure
• All the info: public aid for the purchase of electric vehicles

Why refuse to sort? Because I don't have the space at home, the voluntary drop-off point is too far away, I don't have a waste room, I have too many bags in the kitchen separating waste.

Recycling processes are constantly evolving, particularly since 2018 in Monaco with the extension of sorting instructions (ECT): it makes sorting easier by putting all packaging in the yellow bin (yoghurt pots, water pack overwraps, trays, toothpaste tubes, etc.). There's no question about whether plastic packaging should be recycled or not.

For example, recycling 1 tonne of plastic reduces the use of 650kg of crude oil.

If you're in any doubt, just call us on 8 000 20 40 (freephone number).

• Recyclable household packaging (yellow bin) is sent to SMED's sorting centre in Cannes, operated by Paprec. It is sorted by material before being sent to recyclers.
• Glass (green bin) is sent to the EcolVetro glass sorting centre in Italy near Savona, which then transfers it to glass factories in the region.
• Cardboard is sent to the Veolia sorting centre in Carros.
• Household waste (grey bin) is sent to the Usine de Valorisation Énergétique in the Fontvieille district of Monaco.

Even so, such mixtures can occur in exceptional cases. If collection operatives detect too many sorting errors in a bin, with too much waste not covered by the sorting instructions, they may decide to collect the sorting bin at the same time as the household waste to avoid impairing the quality of the selective collection.

When SMA staff notice that a yellow or green bin contains non-recyclable waste, they affix a sticker to it indicating the reason for the refusal. The bin will then be collected with non-recyclable household waste (grey bin).

A bin containing sorting errors can pollute the entire contents of a skip lorry, and lead to it being downgraded by the sorting centre.

This is the only reason why yellow or green bins can be seen being collected in non-recyclable waste skips.

Sorting waste at source, particularly plastic packaging, plays an essential role in combating climate change and protecting the environment. In Monaco, where waste management is a major issue, recycling sorted plastics is much more beneficial in terms of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than recovering them for energy.

When plastic waste is sorted and sent for recycling, this reduces CO₂ emissions by around 1.1 to 1.2 tonnes per tonne of plastic, even taking into account transport to recycling facilities in France. By comparison, incinerating the same amount of plastic in Monaco generates between 2.8 and 3.3 tonnes of CO₂, a considerable difference that underlines the importance of recycling.

Recycling plastic packaging allows secondary raw materials to be reintroduced into the production cycle, thereby avoiding the extraction of new resources and the production of virgin plastics, two very energy-intensive processes. What's more, by sorting at source, everyone contributes to a more efficient waste management system, reducing the amount of waste sent for incineration and increasing recycling rates (Source ADEME).

In conclusion, sorting your plastic waste at source in Monaco is a simple but powerful way of reducing CO₂ emissions, conserving natural resources and protecting the environment for future generations. By taking an active part in this approach, you are helping the Principality to achieve its environmental objectives.

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study carried out by Eunomia for EcoWest Europe has shown that the number of reuses required for a returnable container to have a lower environmental impact than a disposable container varies according to the type of product, but this number is generally reached fairly quickly. For example, for a bowl, 13 reuses are needed for it to become more energy efficient than a disposable bowl. What's more, using returnable containers encourages a circular economy, where materials are continually reused, reducing the need to produce new containers.

Although often perceived as a more environmentally-friendly solution, it presents some complex challenges. Kraft is not easily recyclable because it is generally made up of several materials, such as plastic and cardboard, which have to be separated. This separation process not only requires energy, but also the use of chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. In addition, kraft often contains PFASs, perfluoroalkyl chemicals, which are persistent in the environment and can be harmful to human health. Although kraft may seem like a good alternative, its environmental impact is often underestimated, making reuse solutions more attractive.

In terms of the energy consumed by kiosks for collecting returnable containers, one kiosk consumes around 170 kWh of energy per year, which is equivalent to around 85 electric car journeys between Monaco and Nice, or the energy needed to burn 75 disposable containers. This consumption is much lower than the overall environmental impact of disposable containers, as one kiosk enables hundreds of containers to be collected and reused each year, significantly reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions linked to the production and disposal of disposable containers.

More information at https://maconsigne.com/.

It is true that these energies require a higher initial investment than fossil fuels, because the equipment is more technologically advanced. For example, a heat pump requires more sophisticated electronic components than a gas boiler. This initial extra cost is smoothed out over time through running costs, and the investment generally pays for itself within a few years.

As for installation, heat pumps are no more difficult to install than fossil fuel boilers. All you need is the ability to recover energy from a source, whether air or water. In Monaco, we have set up thalassothermal loops to exchange heat with the sea. However, even if you're not close to these loops, it's perfectly possible to capture heat from the outside air by installing an outdoor unit. All you need is enough space to install the unit.

It is crucial to understand that these energies offer unique advantages. Systems based on harnessing energy from the sea (thalassothermal), from the ground (geothermal), and from the ambient air with heat pumps offer additional comfort by making it possible not only to heat, but also to cool and produce domestic hot water, while reducing electricity consumption.

Although French electricity is largely decarbonised, local renewable energies enable Monaco to further minimise its carbon footprint by reducing dependence on fossil fuels such as gas or liquid biofuels, which emit greenhouse gases (GHGs) directly. In this way, the development of renewable energies strengthens the Principality's energy autonomy while actively contributing to the fight against climate change.

All the info: renewable energy in Monaco.

The claim that photovoltaic panels cannot be recycled is incorrect.

The glass, which makes up 78% of the panel, is 100% recyclable. The silicon used in photovoltaic cells can be reused up to four times, although its quality decreases slightly with each recycling. Plastic can be granulated or used to generate energy, while aluminium and semiconductors such as silver and copper are 100% recyclable. These materials can therefore be separated and recycled, enabling up to 94.7% of the panel to be recycled.

True! But things are moving on. China produces 79% of raw materials, 96% of silicon wafers, 85% of photovoltaic cells, and 75% of solar panels, i.e. 94% of the entire production chain. Although other countries, such as those in North America and Europe, account for more than a third of global demand, they only contribute 3% of global production. However, investment plans are underway in the United States, Europe and India to increase their production capacity.

The idea that installing photovoltaic panels is very complicated is no longer valid. In the past, roof-integrated solutions were recommended, combining the functions of waterproofing and energy production. Nowadays, the panels are installed as overlay systems, meaning that they are simply added on top of the existing roof, thus separating the waterproofing and energy production functions. For flat roofs, installation is even simpler, provided that the structure can support the extra weight of the panels.

When it comes to improving the energy efficiency of a building, it is often suggested that the heating system should simply be changed. However, it's best to start by properly insulating the building before taking this step. By improving insulation, you reduce energy requirements, which not only improves thermal comfort, but also makes it possible to size a more suitable and potentially less expensive heating system.

What's more, by insulating first, you'll extend the life of your heating system, as it will be under less strain.

When it comes to the compatibility of renovation with architectural and heritage constraints, it is often thought to be difficult to achieve. However, technical advances now make it possible to reproduce most of the architectural features and elements of old buildings. This means that it is possible to retain the original appearance and heritage requirements while improving energy efficiency.

If certain specific constraints cannot be overcome, exemptions may be considered. So don't hesitate to propose external thermal insulation (ETI), even for older buildings.

When it comes to renovation, it's often advisable to take things one step at a time. However, the best approach is to plan the renovation as a whole, taking all aspects into account from the outset. It's essential to assess insulation and solar protection needs first, and then look at replacing the heating and ventilation systems.

This holistic approach maximises energy efficiency and avoids the mistakes that can be made by proceeding piecemeal. That said, it is perfectly possible to carry out the work in stages, as long as you follow a coherent, well-thought-out plan.

Although initial investment costs may be slightly higher when adopting an environmental approach, this is more than offset by the savings made over the life of the building.

A sustainable building consumes less energy, requires less maintenance and offers greater comfort, which translates into a significant reduction in operating costs. What's more, sustainable buildings often have a higher resale value, which is another long-term financial benefit.

All the info: public grants for renovating buildings

Since the end of 2018, the Government has increased the number of online procedures to make life easier for users and save 1.4 tonnes of paper per year within the administration. It has done so with great vigilance, because dematerialisation does not always guarantee ecological gains.

To truly assess its environmental impact, it is essential to objectify it through precise inventories of impacts and a life cycle analysis (LCA). These analyses make it possible, for example, to measure the carbon footprint of computer servers, as well as the energy costs associated with possible user reprints.

So, before launching any new dematerialisation project, it is essential to carry out an LCA in order to orientate actions appropriately. This approach helps to measure the ecological benefits of dematerialisation, even if in some cases it may be wiser to continue with paper-based solutions.

Although digital usage has a real energy impact that we can control, it is above all the impact of our equipment that we need to consider!

Although regularly emptying your mailbox is often considered a key ecological gesture, there are other effective practices for reducing the footprint of digital use. For example, systematically switching off computer equipment in the evening (60% of people do not do this, and 20% never switch off their workstations), using fibre or ADSL rather than the 4G/5G network (the 4G network consumes 23 times more energy than a smartphone), and limiting the sending of large attachments by email in favour of file-sharing platforms. Finally, the consumption of online videos (80% of the impact of browsing!) should be moderated.

But more than usage, equipment has a significant carbon footprint; extend the life of equipment by taking care of it, for example by using protective covers and avoiding extreme heat. The aim is to reduce electronic waste, but also the impact of manufacturing new equipment.

When we talk about the carbon and environmental impact of digital technology, it is important to understand that most of the carbon footprint comes from the production of the equipment, not from its day-to-day use. The manufacture of a computer requires up to 800 kg of natural resources for a device weighing just 2 kg.

This process includes mineral extraction, component production and assembly, mainly in China, where the energy mix is still 60% coal-based. To minimise this impact, it is crucial to adopt responsible practices such as reducing the number of items of equipment, extending their lifespan, and pooling resources such as printers and mobile phones. What's more, repairing and giving a second life to IT equipment can significantly reduce electronic waste and the overall ecological footprint of digital technology. By adopting these practices, not only do we reduce the demand for new devices, but we also reduce the environmental impact associated with their manufacture.

Contrary to the widespread belief that digital innovations are incompatible with the need to reduce energy consumption, a number of initiatives demonstrate that these two approaches can not only coexist, but can also reinforce each other.

In Monaco, for example, building monitoring (SMART+) has reduced energy consumption by at least 8%. Smart City’ projects illustrate how digital technology can optimise the management of urban traffic flows (Waze, YourMonaco, etc.), encourage a modal shift towards soft mobility (MonaPass), and improve the energy efficiency of urban infrastructures. These examples show that digital technology, when geared towards clear environmental objectives, can become a powerful lever for a successful energy transition.

Sources and further information: Digital responsibility

At first sight, it may seem that integrating environmentally-friendly practices represents a constraint, particularly because they can require time and dedicated human resources. However, if we take a medium- to long-term perspective, it becomes clear that it is actually an opportunity. By committing to a low-carbon strategy, in particular by signing up to the National Pact, the company carries out a carbon assessment that enables it to identify areas for improvement and choose concrete actions to reduce its carbon footprint. These actions are often synonymous with operational efficiency and/or economic gains in the short or medium term. What's more, this process opens the way to innovation and creativity.

Decathlon has enriched its business model by developing repair services, thereby reducing the environmental impact of over-consumption. Monaco Télécom, for its part, has opted to pool its fleet of vehicles at the same time as switching to electric vehicles, thereby reducing the number of vehicles.

In the energy sector, for example, there can be a direct link between energy expenditure and greenhouse gas emissions. For example, simple actions such as turning off lights, eliminating standby mode or switching off computers can generate energy savings of more than 10%. On a building level, insulation is an effective method of reducing energy expenditure, resulting in significant savings.

Adopting a responsible purchasing policy is an incentive to rationalise needs, which translates into reduced expenditure. In addition, by reviewing certain industrial or administrative processes, it is possible to identify and optimise tasks that are high GHG emitters, which not only reduces energy consumption, but also saves time and cuts costs.

Although these actions may seem costly at the outset, the overall benefits are undeniable in the long term. In addition, National Green Fund grants are available to support businesses in their transition to more sustainable practices.

A concrete example: the Hotels of the Principality. Since 2018, Monaco's main hotels have been equipped with the Smart + system, a monitoring tool that makes it possible to track electricity consumption and adopt energy-saving measures. Thanks to this system, some hotels have managed to save the equivalent of one month's electricity per year, and for others, these savings have even exceeded two months after one or two years of use.

It's true that for many companies, particularly SMEs, it can be difficult to devote the time to issues of corporate social responsibility (CSR). However, more and more companies are committing themselves to this approach, because it is in their interests to do so, whether in terms of their organisation and the motivation of their teams, their relationship with their customers or, for example, as a supplier. Large companies, which are themselves committed to low-carbon initiatives, also require their suppliers to have carried out a carbon audit and to have taken steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

Bettina, for example, won a major French contract because it committed to a low-carbon strategy in Monaco.

 To join the National Pact for Energy Transition, follow the Coach!

All the info: Public support for the energy transition of businesses​​​