Wim, Ilse & Romy

Het Komme Bos, based in Ijzendijke, Netherlands, is leading a sustainable forestry initiative, focusing on the cultivation of Paulownia trees. Known for their rapid growth, these trees absorb significant amounts of CO2, improve soil fertility, retain moisture, and prevent erosion, making them a sustainable alternative to traditional timber and a vital tool in combating deforestation. In 2024, the family planted 1,950 trees across 2.5 hectares, with plans to expand to 7 hectares in the future. Their efforts align with a dual mission: providing eco-friendly timber while actively supporting net-zero goals through carbon absorption.

The family’s diverse business operations include agriculture (potatoes, onions, wheat, and nature management), a construction materials business specializing in roof tile restoration across the Benelux region, and a newly launched restaurant managed by their eldest daughter and her husband. The family of five takes pride in their contribution to sustainability. Inspired by local history, they named Het Komme bos after the area’s historical harbor, emphasizing their deep connection to the land and its heritage.