bee careful receives CSR award from German government
The Hero Group has been committed to preserving habitats for pollinators, promoting soil and pollinator health, and supporting biodiversity-friendly agriculture through the bee careful initiative since 2014.
A key component of this initiative is a cooperation program with farmers on biodiversity, conducted by our German entity Schwartauer Werke. Our team developed a biodiversity cataloge that explains various regenerative agriculture practices and how to implement them on farms to receive financial support from the bee careful fund.
In 2023 and 2024, a total of 44 agricultural farms growing cherries, currants, strawberries, and blueberries for Schwartauer Werke participated in the program. Together, we created 105 hectares of blooming habitats through field edge flower strips, greened driving lanes, and ecological corridors. Additionally, we supported 130 hectares of blooming cover crops, 172 hectares of alternating mulching, 159 bird nesting sites, and provided five expert consultations on regenerative practices.
The participating farms benefit from an increased population of essential pollinating insects and improved soil quality through humus formation and microbial activity. Schwartauer Werke benefits from a documented initiative, more resilient supply chains, and increased loyalty from partner farms. It's a win-win-win for nature, farmers, and Schwartauer Werke.
We are proud that the German government honored this cooperation program with farmers by awarding Schwartauer Werke the Corporate Social Responsibility Award in April 2025 in the category “Effective protection of the climate and biodiversity.”
