Sustainability Meets Literature: Koehler Paper and Verlag Hermann Schmidt Organize and Design Joint Event in Frankfurt
- Working together for a sustainable book culture
- Sustainability in literature
- Ideas for creative industries
With a slogan of “Sustainability meets literature” leading the way, Koehler Paper and renowned publishing house Verlag Hermann Schmidt recently demonstrated that environmental responsibility and cultural modes of expression go hand in hand. The concrete manifestation of this truth was the actual event, which took place on November 20, 2025 in the German city of Frankfurt and was part of the successful “Sustainability meets...” series of events initiated by Koehler Paper.
Working together for a sustainable book culture
After the successful preceding events of “Sustainability meets the senses” in Hamburg and “Sustainability meets art” in Düsseldorf, this third instance in a German city revolved around printed literature (both fiction and non-fiction) and the power of the printed word on sustainable paper. This is where Koehler Paper’s new Greenium recycled paper line, which raises the bar for sustainable print solutions, came in. These high-quality paper offerings combine environmental consciousness with extraordinary print quality, and their exceptional feel and high opacity make them the perfect choice for sophisticated applications – from works of literature to high-end non-fiction books and other premium printed products. Together with Verlag Hermann Schmidt, which is known for its exquisitely designed books covering typography, design, and creativity, Koehler Paper arranged for an inspiring space where sustainability and a love for reading could join in a heart-to-heart dialogue.
Sustainability in literature
The event offered a rousing mixture of readings, conversations, and insights into sustainable book design. Participants included author Tanja Foley (Editor at A\WAY travel magazine), Publisher Bertram Schmidt-Friderichs (Verlag Hermann Schmidt), and Marco Bölling (Bölling GmbH & Co. KG). Together, they discussed how sustainability and a love for books can converge both tangibly and content-wise. In addition, book projects made with environmentally friendly paper from Koehler Paper were presented as well. A subsequent get-together then gave everyone the chance to partake in creative discussions.
Udo Hollbach, Managing Director of the Koehler Paper Greiz mill, had the following to say: “With this event, we wanted to show that sustainability and cultural sophistication are in no way incompatible. And what better way to demonstrate it than this experience, which we organized together with Verlag Hermann Schmidt and combined literature, design, and environmental consciousness?” Verlag Hermann Schmidt Publisher Bertram Schmidt-Friderichs added: “Our books are slow food for the brain – and evidence of the fact that eyes and hands always play a role in purchase decisions. Against this backdrop, working with Koehler Paper was simply a logical step for us, since we wanted to show that we live our values even when it comes to the materials we use.”
Ideas for creative industries
The event was intended for authors, creative professionals, publishing house professionals, and anyone interested in sustainable book production. Guests not only got to listen to fascinating presentations and partake in captivating discussions, but also got exclusive insights into current book projects and innovative paper solutions.
Best regards
Alexander M. Stöckle Corporate Director Marketing & Communications Press Spokesperson
Koehler Holding SE & Co. KG
Tel: +49 7802 81-4749 Fax: +49 7802 81-5749 mailto:alexander.stoeckle@koehler.com