An apple a day keeps climate change away

From 20 to 21 May 2025, the second meeting of the EU CAP Network Focus Group 'Local perennial plant genetic resources in view of climate change and biodiversity loss' will take place.

The main question discussed during this Focus Group is: 'How can the conservation and utilisation of local under-utilised varieties of perennial crops be attractive and profitable for farmers and thereby contribute to biodiversity-friendly sustainable farming under climate change?'

Farmers in Germany's Franconia region are boosting their income while supporting biodiversity and climate resilience by growing and processing traditional apple varieties 30km around Hesselberg Mountain. Since its founding in 2006, the Hesselberger initiative has shown that sustainable farming with underutilised apple varieties can be both eco-friendly and economically viable. Today, more than 1,500 farmers take part in the initiative, collectively processing around 400 metric tons of fruit annually, gaining better market access, and receiving fair prices for their produce.

Since the 1960s, Franconia has lost nearly 70% of its orchard trees, endangering local biodiversity and traditional farming knowledge. To counter this decline, the Middle Franconia Landscape Conservation Association developed the concept for the Hesselberger fruit beverage brand in 2006. Initially piloted under the LEADER project “Fränkische Moststraße,” the initiative is now supported by 34 shareholders, including farmers, orchard owners, restaurateurs, and local officials. Its mission is to establish a sustainable market for local apple varieties while safeguarding the region’s cultural and ecological heritage.

"We’re harvesting the fruits of our grandparents while planting trees for our grandchildren", says Norbert Metz, representative of the Middle Franconia Landscape Conservation Association. "By preserving traditional apple varieties, we’re not only safeguarding biodiversity but also creating new income opportunities for farmers."

Farmers benefit from higher and more stable incomes through reliable payments that exceed standard market rates. Shorter supply chains and direct partnerships with over 170 local retailers and restaurants reduce the initiative’s logistical challenges and boost profitability. Additionally, it provides technical and financial support for orchard maintenance and replanting, helping farmers enhance the health and productivity of their orchards.

Cultivating diverse apple varieties with unique traits strengthens orchard resilience against shifting weather patterns and pests. Preserving traditional orchards supports local ecosystems, helps pollinators, and improves soil health: key elements of sustainable, climate-smart farming. These orchards also act as natural carbon sinks, enhancing the soil’s water balance and contributing to long-term climate stability.

Allfra Regionalmarkt Franken GmbH manages the Hesselberger fruit beverage brand and its regional value network, uniting farmers, mayors, orchard owners, horticultural organisations, and independent businesses. By blending traditional knowledge with modern market access and environmental responsibility, farmers are not only securing their livelihoods but also advancing biodiversity-friendly and climate-resilient farming.

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