A new forest for the Harz – Sustainability on our doorstep
Since 2024, a new mixed forest has been taking shape directly behind Sympatec GmbH’s Pulverhaus site in Clausthal-Zellerfeld. In collaboration with Niedersächsische Landesforsten (Lower Saxony Forestry Authority), we are planting 10,000 young trees on land severely damaged by bark beetle infestation. Over time, the once largely barren area is to develop into a stable, climate-resilient mixed forest – a place where nature, technology and responsibility come together in a special way.
The idea is simple, yet important: the forests of tomorrow need to be more diverse than the predominantly spruce-based forests of previous centuries. They need to become more resilient, adapt more successfully to changing climatic conditions and provide new habitats for animals and plants.
A forest rooted in responsibility
Shaped by centuries of mining and extensive afforestation after the Second World War, large parts of the Harz forests consist predominantly of spruce. In recent years, they have suffered visibly. Prolonged periods of drought, storms and bark beetle infestation have transformed vast areas of woodland.
These developments have highlighted one fact in particular: forests consisting almost entirely of a single tree species are especially vulnerable to changing environmental conditions.
The ‘Sympatec Forest’ reflects the silvicultural strategy pursued by Niedersächsische Landesforsten. As part of its forest conversion programme, the organisation is developing site-adapted mixed forests comprising both deciduous and coniferous species that are better able to withstand the effects of climate change.
The area supported by Sympatec therefore includes young beech, maple, oak, birch and ash trees growing alongside climate-adapted coniferous species. A diverse combination of tree species, age structures and natural regeneration is intended to help the forest become more stable and self-sustaining over the long term.
More than trees – A contribution to the climate and the region
Reforestation involves more than planting individual trees. A young mixed forest absorbs carbon dioxide, protects the soil, helps regulate the water cycle and provides habitats for numerous animal and plant species. At the same time, it can strengthen regional ecosystems and contribute to a more balanced local microclimate.
For Sympatec, the forest is a project firmly rooted in the local area. The site will be maintained, monitored and observed over a period of ten years. Those who see the first plantings today will be able to witness how the young trees gradually develop into a living part of the Harz landscape.
Sustainability as part of our identity
As a company specialising in particle measurement technology, Sympatec stands for precision, analysis and responsibility. With the ‘Sympatec Forest’, we are extending this commitment to our immediate surroundings through sustainable action, long-term benefits and visible results.
The ‘Sympatec Forest’ is not merely an abstract symbol, but a tangible contribution to the climate, nature and the region. The young trees represent our commitment to the area on our doorstep and our hope that the forests of the Harz Mountains will gradually recover and become more resilient.
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Niedersächsische Landesforsten
Niedersächsische Landesforsten is a state-owned enterprise of the Federal State of Lower Saxony, sustainably managing around 330,000 hectares of state forest. Its responsibilities include forest protection and maintenance, commercial forestry, nature conservation, recreation and environmental education throughout Lower Saxony.
