Heidelberg, September 2, 2026
io is sending a clear signal in favor of transparency and responsible business practices: With the publication of its sustainability report in accordance with the German Sustainability Code (DNK), the consulting and planning firm is publicly disclosing its environmental, social, and corporate performance in a structured and transparent manner for the first time.
The report was prepared in accordance with the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs (VSME). It covers the entire io Group and consolidates the companies io-consultants, io-BuildingEngineering, and io-DigitalSolutions. In doing so, it demonstrates that sustainability at io is not a one-off measure, but an integral part of the company’s strategy.
“For us, sustainability is not a trend, but a fundamental prerequisite for future-oriented business practices,” explains io’s management. “With the DNK report, we are creating transparency and making it clear how we systematically integrate environmental, social, and economic aspects into our consulting, planning, and business processes.”
Sustainability Along the Entire Value Chain
As a general planner and consulting partner, io supports its clients from the strategic concept through to the implementation of complex industrial projects. Sustainability aspects are consistently taken into account in planning, architecture, production, logistics, digitalization, and project management. The goal is to develop solutions that are resource-conserving, energy-efficient, and effective in the long term—both for clients and for society.
There is a particular focus on future-oriented industries such as life sciences, the food industry, consumer goods, mechanical and plant engineering, the automotive industry, and healthcare. In these markets, io supports companies in combining economic performance with climate protection, efficiency, and social responsibility.
Responsibility Within Our Own Company
io also pursues ambitious sustainability goals within its own operations. Its headquarters in Heidelberg’s Bahnstadt district is located in an energy-efficient passive house neighborhood that is entirely powered by renewable energy. In addition, io is continuously working to further reduce emissions—particularly in the areas of mobility and IT infrastructure.
In the social sphere, the focus is on safe working conditions, continuous learning, equal opportunities, and supporting a healthy work-life balance. This commitment is complemented by the support of social and community initiatives.
Transparency as a Commitment
The DNK report was created using the DNK platform and is based on recognized reporting standards for small and medium-sized enterprises. It clearly illustrates where io stands today—and what next steps are planned on the path to even greater sustainability.
“The DNK is an important tool for us to critically reflect on our actions and continuously improve them,” io adds. “At the same time, we provide customers, partners, and employees with a reliable foundation for understanding our values and actions.”
The full sustainability report is now available: View VSME Reports