Environmentally conscious herbal pioneer in Straubing revolutionizes production!

Environmentally conscious herbal pioneer in Straubing revolutionizes production!

On July 18, 2025, the environmental working group of the CSU district association Straubing-Bogen had the opportunity to visit “Gäubodenkräuter GmbH & Co. KG” in Straubing. This regional company, which specializes in the processing of dried herbs, relies on sustainability and environmentally friendly production methods. Richard Bachl, one of the company's co-founders, presented the vision of providing high-quality, local herbs for the international market.

During the tour, the entire production process was explained: First, the fresh herbs arrive and are pre-sorted, followed by chopping and energy-efficient drying. Particularly impressive is the sustainable drying technology, which uses a combination of gas and heat pump technology. This innovation leads to savings of around 90% in gas consumption and a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions. The herbs are packed in large containers and prepared for international trade.

Regionality and environmental awareness

The focus of “Gäubodenkräuter” is not only on high-quality processing, but also on promoting regional value chains. The trend towards regional food has become more important in recent years. By purchasing local products, consumers not only support local farmers, but also contribute to the economic development of the region. As a report by sustainable Switzerland shows, short transport routes are particularly advantageous in the context of climate change, and it is recommended to purchase primarily seasonal products in order to improve the ecological balance.

Richard Bachl emphasizes that the “Gäubodenkräuter” not only produce herbs for the kitchen, but also plant-based raw materials for natural remedies. This represents a regional response to global health needs and shows how modern production and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

The question of the ecological balance

But how sustainable are regional products really? A comprehensive study has shown that the ecological balance is not solely determined by transport routes. For example, imported tomatoes from southern Spain have a better environmental footprint in the winter months than local ones, which often come from less environmentally friendly farming methods during this period. Experts therefore recommend thinking about important factors such as production methods and packaging and not just the origin of the food. Avoiding one flight per year can have a greater impact on your personal carbon footprint than buying regional products.

Overall, the visit to the “Gäubodenkräuter” was a successful event that highlighted the crucial role of agriculture in the region. Through its impressive commitment to sustainability and responsible production, the company has set a good example of how to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern, environmentally friendly approaches. A good place to learn more about regional delicacies while doing good for the environment.