Gmund wins Deutschen Nachhaltigkeitspreis 2026
Paper reimagined – innovative, sustainable, aesthetic
On 5 December 2025, Gmund Papier received the German Sustainability Award 2026 in the paper, cardboard and paperboard sector. The independent expert jury awards the prize to companies that have made a particularly impressive contribution to transformation in their respective sectors, based on transparent jury rules, intensive research, publicly available information and the expertise of the jury.
According to the jury, Gmund Papier impressed in a special way with a corporate approach that consistently combines the highest quality with ecological responsibility. For decades, the paper mill on Lake Tegernsee has been setting standards for recyclability and resource efficiency in the industry.
“The jury particularly commends the paper manufacturer’s role as an important driving force behind the ecological transformation of the entire paper industry.”
Innovative papers made from alternative plant fibres
The award particularly recognises the paper manufacturer’s pioneering role: with bold investments in environmental technologies and a combination of precision craftsmanship and innovation, Gmund Papier demonstrates that ecological responsibility, aesthetics and the highest paper quality are not mutually exclusive.
At the company’s site, papers are developed from resource-saving and fast-growing plant fibres. Today, Gmund’s range includes paper collections made from 100% hemp, 100% recycled cotton and the Gmund Mother Earth collection. These innovative fibres reduce the use of traditional wood pulp and open up new avenues for high-quality, sustainable papers. Gmund is thus setting new standards for environmentally friendly paper production and is considered an important driving force for the ecological transformation of the entire industry.
In addition, up to 75% of the company’s electrical energy requirements come from its own renewable sources such as hydropower, solar energy and combined heat and power. The additional electricity required consists of 100% certified and CO2-free green electricity. Thanks to its own modern ozone purification system, fresh water is reused several times in a production cycle. This has significantly reduced water consumption.
The company’s own cradle-to-cradle programme, alternative plant fibres, FSC®-certified raw materials and a voluntary environmental charter underline its consistent commitment to climate, resources and biodiversity.
About the German Sustainability Award
The German Sustainability Award is the national award for outstanding achievements in sustainability in business, local government and research. With eight competitions, over 2,000 applicants and 3,000 guests attending the events, the award is the largest of its kind in Europe. The award is presented by the German Sustainability Award Foundation in cooperation with the Federal Government, local authority associations, business associations, civil society organisations and research institutions.