Sustainable Innovation.
Shaping the Future Responsibly.

At IMS CHIPS, sustainability means far more than the responsible use of energy and resources. As a non-profit research institute, we develop microelectronics, photonic systems, and innovative manufacturing technologies that combine technological progress with environmental, economic, and social responsibility.

Our research lays the foundation for more energy-efficient products, more resilient supply chains, and innovative applications – from medical technology and quantum technologies to artificial intelligence. At the same time, we continuously work to make our own infrastructure and processes more sustainable.

Because we believe that tomorrow’s technologies must not only deliver high performance but also be developed responsibly.

Our Impact Since 2015

27.6 million kWh
Energy saved

5,146 tonnes CO₂ emissions avoided

3.3 million kWh/year
pro Jahr eingespart

1.2 million kWh/year
District heating energy saved

1.7 million kWh/year
Electrical energy saved

From Cleanroom. To Greenroom.

Rethinking Energy Efficiency, Cost Stability and Process Reliability in Cleanroom Operations

Cleanrooms are among the most energy-intensive areas of semiconductor manufacturing. At the same time, they are essential for achieving the highest levels of quality, precision, and process reliability. For us, one thing is clear: sustainability and cost-effective operations are not mutually exclusive.

Since 2015, eh ave continuously optimized our cleanroom technology and utility supply systems – from intelligent building management systems and energy-efficient cooling and heating circuits to improvements in day-to-day operations.
The result: significantly lower energy consumption, greater process stability, and noticeable cost benefits – while maintaining consistently high quality standards.

The figures above speak for themselves.

We call our approach “From Cleanroom to Greenroom.” After all, a semiconductor foundry cannot be transformed overnight. We understand the technical, organizational, and economic challenges from first-hand experience and know how sustainable improvements can be implemented step by step during ongoing operations – without compromising process reliability.

This is how we create solutions that combine environmental responsibility, economic efficiency, and technological excellence.

Learn more about our Greenroom program and our measures for sustainable cleanroom optimization.
At dusk, the facade of the IMS CHIPS institute building glows violet; in front of it are green spaces and landscaped paths.

Sustainability at IMS CHIPS. Turning Responsibility into Action.

At IMS CHIPS, sustainability means considering environmental, social, and technological responsibility together.
Through energy- and resource-efficient cleanrooms, responsible research, and sustainable microelectronics technologies, we work to reduce our own environmental footprint while developing solutions for a future-ready industry.
Our wide range of measures and initiatives demonstrates how we put sustainability into practice across our institute, our research, and our daily activities.

Fair Working Conditions

Fair Working Conditions

We provide our employees with transparent and fair remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the public service of the German federal states (TV-L), creating secure employment and long-term career prospects.

Promoting Health and Wellbeing

Promoting Health and Wellbeing

The health of our employees is important to us. That is why we offer a range of activities and benefits, including partnerships with university sports programs, JobRad bicycle leasing, a running group, a volleyball group, a cycling group, and additional health initiatives.

Sharing Knowledge

Sharing Knowledge

As a research institute, we promote education at every level. Our programs are designed for school students, university students, companies, and individuals, and include lectures, internships, professional training courses, and specialist events.

Diversity Drives Innovation

Diversity Drives Innovation

We actively support women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), participate in relevant networks, and promote equal opportunities and a respectful working environment.
More than 30% of our employees are women – significantly above the industry average.

Responsible Resource Management

Responsible Resource Management

Our chemical and wastewater disposal processes comply with the highest legal and technical safety standards, protecting both people and the environment.

Using Energy Efficiently

Using Energy Efficiently

Through modern building technology, energy-efficient cleanroom systems, and reusable heating and cooling circuits, we continuously reduce our energy consumption.

Innovation Creates Opportunities for the Future

Innovation Creates Opportunities for the Future

We provide a modern working environment, promote innovation, and support companies in successful technology transfer – particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Technologies for Tomorrow

Technologies for Tomorrow

We develop innovative microelectronics, photonic systems, and manufacturing technologies to address future challenges – with a focus on energy efficiency, high performance, and scalability.

Technology for Everyone

Technology for Everyone

Through publicly funded research projects and technology transfer, we help small and medium-sized enterprises in particular gain access to innovative microelectronics technologies.

Innovation for SMEs

Innovation for SMEs

Together with companies, we develop technologies that strengthen competitiveness and enable sustainable innovation in Germany and Europe.

Resource-Efficient Manufacturing

Resource-Efficient Manufacturing

We continuously optimize our manufacturing processes, reduce energy and resource consumption, and invest in sustainable cleanroom infrastructure.

Climate Protection Starts in the Cleanroom

Climate Protection Starts in the Cleanroom

Through energy-efficient building technology, modern cleanroom systems, and optimized heating and cooling circuits, we have significantly reduced our energy requirements in recent years.
5,146 tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided and 27.6 million kWh of energy saved between 2015 and 2025.

Responsibility for Our Environment

Responsibility for Our Environment

Protecting water resources starts before wastewater is discharged. Through safe processes and proper disposal, we ensure that our research does not negatively affect water bodies.

Preserving Natural Habitats

Preserving Natural Habitats

On our campus, we promote biodiversity through wildflower areas and natural green spaces that provide habitats for insects and other native species.

Forschung mit Verantwortung

Forschung mit Verantwortung

We develop technologies for civilian applications, act transparently and responsibly, and meet high standards in quality, data protection, and compliance.

Shaping Innovation Together

Shaping Innovation Together

Sustainable innovation is driven by collaboration. That is why we participate in numerous national and international research partnerships and work closely with universities, companies,

Shaping Sustainable Innovation Together

Sustainability takes shape where research, development, and industrial applications come together.

As a non-profit research institute, we see sustainability as a long-term responsibility – towards our employees, our partners, society, and future generations.

Together with companies, universities, and public institutions, we develop technologies that conserve resources, enable innovation, and sustainably strengthen Europe’s position as an industrial location.

Because the most sustainable technologies emerge where research takes responsibility.

Wind turbines and a modern institute building stand against a green landscape crisscrossed by bright digital network lines.