Reforestation of forests to preserve drinking water

Only a healthy, green forest can ensure a balanced water supply. However, persistently high temperatures and drought are currently putting forests under pressure. Since water is an essential source of life, Krombacher is supporting the preservation of stable forests with a large-scale reforestation program.

Forester Mia Schmidt and Wolfgang Schötz, Head of Sustainability Management at Krombacher Brewery (Photo: © Krombacher Brewery)

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Reforestation of forests to preserve drinking water

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July 2026

Mia Schmidt, Forester of Forest and Timber in Siegen-Wittgenstein is satisfied. Despite the tense situation, it was possible with the support of Krombacher Brewery more than half of the planned trees in the North Rhine-Westphalia They will be planted in forests. Exactly. 474.950 trees They could be planted in the ground. But with the achievement of this goal, it also becomes clear: reforestation is not a short-term intervention, but a long-term processThe focus is now on protecting, maintaining, and developing the areas. "For the young trees to become a stable forest, it takes time and, above all, consistent care," emphasized forester Schmidt.

For Krombacher, protecting the forest is closely linked to its own corporate responsibility connected. Not only is water the main ingredient of a good-tasting beer. "The forest is far more than just a natural space for us," he says. Wolfgang Schötz, Head of Sustainability Management at the company. Especially in the brewery's home region in Siegerland and Sauerland This was therefore a key focus of the reforestation project. Further planting measures are planned from October onwards in Hesse, Thuringia, Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein.

Develop a forest instead of planting trees

Healthy and green forests are a crucial factor for a balanced water balanceThey act like natural reservoirs and filters. Precipitation is absorbed, purified, and slowly released again. That's how it works for the State Forestry Administration Forest and Timber NRW and Brewery Therefore, it is not enough to simply plant trees; the goal is to develop forests that are permanently stable and can fulfill their functions.

"The forest needs time, diversity, protection, and care," Mia Schmidt summarizes. And so does... future generations on a high-quality drinking water quality and thus also be able to hope for a delicious beer.