Cement factory in Burglengenfeld faces catastrophe.
The cement plant in Burglengenfeld, Germany, was the scene of a major fire on August 17, 2025. The blaze, which originated in the plant's waste plastic fuel storage hall, has caused considerable damage and raised concerns about the future of production.
Plant manager Bernhard Reindl was understandably on edge due to the fire, as over 340 firefighters battled the flames to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further within the plant [1][4]. The smoke from the fire was visible from Burglengenfeld to Schwandorf, impacting the air quality in the surrounding areas.
The exact cause of the warehouse fire is still under investigation, though a smouldering fire is suspected based on a similar smaller incident that occurred in October 2024 [1]. The plant uses waste plastic as its main fuel source, and the fire required a significant response from the fire department, who employed various equipment and strategies to extinguish the fire effectively [4].
Despite the damage, cement production has continued, albeit at around 80% of usual capacity. This has been achieved by temporarily switching the kiln fuel from waste plastic to lignite [1][4]. A major clean-up operation is underway as of late August 2025, and police are investigating the cause of the fire [1][3].
The impact of the fire includes significant damage to the fuel hall roof and structure, with estimates of losses in the hundreds of thousands of euros [1]. The roof will need partial dismantling and replacement after inspection by a structural engineer.
In summary, the fire at the Burglengenfeld cement plant has caused significant damage and disruption, with the exact cause still under investigation. Cement production has continued at a reduced capacity, and a clean-up operation is underway. The authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and the local emergency services are coordinating the response.
Cement production at the Burglengenfeld plant shifted from using waste plastic to lignite due to the fire damage, as efforts to preserve the normal capacity are initiated [1][4]. Amidst the investigations into the cause of the fire, concerns have arisen regarding the financial implications in the energy sector, given the importance of waste plastic in the manufacturing industry. [1][2]
