Zapfwerke GmbH & Co. KG

Objective

Increasing biodiversity through open cast sand extraction in the area of Kreuzstein Forest.

Context

Zapfwerke GmbH & Co. KG has been carrying out sand extraction in the Kreuzstein Forest for over 15 years. Since the beginning, the company has had a clear commitment to nature restoration in the open extraction area. Basis for the quartz sand extraction by Zapf at the “Kreuzstein” open extraction site in Schwaig near Nuremberg are the extraction permits relating to the operational framework plan (1998) and the subsequent main operational plans (2000, 2014, 2015 with a limitation till 2020).

Actions

Engaging in nature conservation through plant introduction and simultaneous plant introduction through continuous cycle flow.

Fauna and vegetation monitoring.

Planned reforestation of surrounding areas, protective forest, greater nutrient-poor areas.

Result

Increase of biodiversity.

Development of a complex biotype within the Kreuzstein open extraction area.

Smaller extraction sections resulted in areas to be renatured and recultivated at comparatively early stages.