Mercer Rosenthal Gradually Resumes Discharge from Its On-Site Wastewater Treatment Plant

Rosenthal am Rennsteig, October 6, 2026—During the restart process following a four-week maintenance shutdown, the plant received a report on October 1, 2026, regarding discoloration in the vicinity of the wastewater discharge point. As a precautionary measure to rule out any adverse effects on the environment and water bodies, the company immediately halted the restart process and the wastewater discharge, retaining the wastewater in the plant’s own buffer basins. The Saale-Orla District Office subsequently issued a temporary swimming ban for the southern section of the Bleiloch Reservoir as a precaution.

Since the wastewater discharge was suspended on Thursday, the company has been in constant direct communication with the relevant authorities. On this basis, discharge from the plant’s own wastewater treatment facility into the Saale River was gradually resumed on October 3 in close coordination with the relevant environmental authorities. At the same time, preparations are underway to resume pulp production.

About Us

Mercer Rosenthal produces kraft pulp, a raw material for paper and tissue manufacturing. With an annual production capacity of 360,000 metric tons, the company primarily supplies customers in Germany and Italy. The majority of the pulp is transported by rail.

In addition to high-quality pulp, Mercer Rosenthal manufactures other wood-based products such as tall oil and lignin. The company also operates a large biomass power plant with a thermal capacity of 413 megawatts and an electrical capacity of 57 megawatts.

Mercer Rosenthal is part of Mercer International Inc., an internationally active manufacturer of wood products with locations in Germany, Canada, and the United States. For more information about the company, visit www.mercerint.com.

Press Contact

Mandy Schwanitz, Public Relations
Email: mandy.schwanitz@mercerint.com
Phone: +49 36642 8-2153
Mercer Rosenthal GmbH
Hauptstraße 16
07366 Rosenthal am Rennsteig