Berlin & Brandenburg See Unusual Road Salt Use Last Winter
Authorities in Berlin & Brandenburg see unusual road salt use last winter, with more than 50,000 tonnes spread across Brandenburg. The winter season 2025/2026 proved markedly harsher than in recent years.
Record salt consumption
Landesbetrieb Straßenwesen Brandenburg reported a total exceeding 50,000 tonnes. That is more than double the average of about 25,000 tonnes from the previous four winters.
By comparison, the 2024/2025 winter required nearly 20,000 tonnes. Officials said salt stocks had to be reordered during peak demand and distribution was sometimes prioritised.
Operations and road impacts
The Landesbetrieb is responsible for winter service on federal and state roads and on cycle paths. Staff managed to meet service requirements and largely maintain traffic safety despite early 2026 cold spells.
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles caused a surge in road damage and potholes across the network. Road maintenance depots document these defects weekly and record affected stretches.
Where damage is severe, temporary speed limits may be imposed to protect road users and workers. The authority continues inspections and repairs as weather allows.
Salt use and environmental concerns
The agency explained that the spread rate per square metre is roughly comparable to the salt used for a boiled egg. Salt remains an effective de-icing agent for keeping surfaces passable.
Environmental groups, led by BUND, warned that road salt harms soil, vegetation, wildlife and waterways. The concerns add pressure to explore alternatives and reduce overall salt reliance.
Filmogaz.com based this report on figures and statements from Landesbetrieb Straßenwesen Brandenburg. The agency supplied the consumption totals and operational details.
