here for hops

Craft Beer & Sustainability

About

Spend Less on Stuff & More on Experiences.

In today's world, it can be difficult to separate the square from fiction. Sometimes it feels like we’re in a world that’s changed so quickly from a world we once knew. However, one thing that has remained constant is humanity's love for a delicious craft beer.

Here for Hops began with a deep appreciation for craft beer, which blossomed into a fascination with hops and the plant they originate from, Cannabaceae. This passion extended to hemp and eventually evolved into a commitment to sustainability. We also feature valuable insights on sustainable brands, offering charming designs crafted from comfortable, eco-friendly materials. Whether you're a fan of craft beer, slow fashion, or both, we invite you to explore our website and discover the latest in the worlds of craft beer and sustainability at hereforhops.com.

Photo Credit : AZ Wilderness Brewing Co.

AZ Wilderness Brewing Co. sources their malt from Sinagua Malt Inc., which partners with local farmers to reduce water usage during high-demand periods, resulting in conservation of over 425 million gallons of water since 2019. This is an excellent example of local businesses supporting each other and the environment.

Sustainability

Exploring the world of Sustainable Sipping.

In operation for over a decade now, Arizona Wilderness’s commitment to Arizona’s nature and agricultural community remains unshaken. In 2013 they bagged the RateBeer’s “Best Brewery in the World”. An article by Esquire in 2014 recognized Arizona Wilderness’s CEO and Brewmaster, Jon Buford’s accomplishment, who had recently tackled some heavy financial barriers just 8 months prior. Arizona Wilderness’s success does not go without repaying its Arizona community.

Arizona Wilderness Brewery is dedicated to crafting beers that are not only delicious but also raise awareness about pressing environmental issues. Their "This Beer Saves Water" Pale Ale is a prime example, brewed to bring attention to water conservation efforts. In addition to their commitment to sustainability, Arizona Wilderness is passionate about supporting local businesses and forging relationships within their community. One such partnership is with Ramona Farms, a family-run farm that specializes in growing tepary beans, a staple of Arizona's indigenous cuisine. These beans are used in a variety of Arizona Wilderness Brewery's dishes, including their vegetarian tacos and veggie burgers. It's a brew-tiful example of sustainable sourcing and community support.

Photo Credit: AZ Wilderness Brewing Co.

This Beer Saves Water is made with 100% Sinagua Malt. Every pint of This Beer Saves Water—and, in fact, every Wilderness beer - helps offset more than 50 gallons of water for Arizona's waterways.

Photo Credit: AZ Wilderness Brewing Co.

Photo Credit: AZ Wilderness Brewing Co.

Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. collaborating with Sinagua Malt Inc.

Another example of Arizona Wilderness’s commitment to sustainability is their relationship with Sinagua Malt. Arizona Wilderness and Sinagua Malt share a mutual commitment to sustainability and protecting the environment. By sourcing their malt from Sinagua, Arizona Wilderness is not only supporting local businesses but also contributing to the conservation of the Verde River by conserving water usage in the farming community. This partnership is a prime example of how businesses can work together to promote sustainability and make a positive impact on the environment. Every time you enjoy a beer from Arizona Wilderness, you can feel good knowing that you are supporting a company that is dedicated to making a difference.

Arizona Brewing Co. is a prime example of how companies can work with the environment to protect our natural resources while still thriving in business.

Sinagua Malt exemplifies water conservation and environmental responsibility for their dedication to providing a market-based solution addressing the need to preserve the Verde River water volume.

Sinagua Malt works with Arizona farmers by encouraging them to transition from water intensive, summer crops such as cotton and alfalfa to the significantly less water intensive, winter/spring crop, malt barley. The transition is relevant to water conservation because summer crops require water irrigation provided by the Verde River during the river’s low stream flow which takes place during Arizona’s scorching summer season.

Photo Credit: AZ Wilderness Brewing Co.

Top: AZ Brewing Co. Sinagua Page Springs Tour

Bottom: Sinagua Malt Crop

Photo Credit: AZ Wilderness Brewing Co.

Top: Sinagua Malt owner Chip Norton giving AZ Brewing Co. tour of Sinagua Malt’s malt house.

Bottom: Barley grown by Sinagua Malt. Same Barley used as a base in every AZ Wilderness Brewing Co. beer.

Did you know that water is the primary ingredient in beer? As a result, businesses such as Signaua Malt and Arizona Wilderness Brewing & Co. are making a concerted effort to protect the Verde River’s water flow. This is not only an ethical decision, but also an environmental imperative. Brewers rely heavily on water during the brewing process. For instance, they use service water for the boiler feed, process water for sterilizing vessels, and general purpose water for maintaining brewery hygiene. Therefore, it is crucial for brewers to take responsibility and give back to the ingredient that has given them so much. Singagua Malt has come up with a solution that benefits both the booming brewing industry and their need for barley malt, as well as Arizona's drive to conserve water by using one hose to water two plants.

Sustainable Industry

Water is the foundation for our beloved craft beers. However, how much water are we really using and what steps can we take to conserve it?

Drinking beer is a delightful and enjoyable experience. However, as we indulge in this delicious beverage, we must consider the environmental cost of its production. Despite this awareness, many of us still love craft beer not only for its taste but also for its stance against conventional culture. Fortunately, the Connecticut/New England Environmentally Sustainable Craft Beverage Program has made it easier for breweries like Back East Brewing to minimize impact on the environment and it’s truly heartwarming.

Back East Brewing Company @tinoandmalone

Practicing sustainability with magical music.

New England’s: Craft Beverage Program

The Sustainable Craft Beverage Program in New England prioritizes water conservation, which is a positive move for the industry.

The Connecticut/New England Environmentally Sustainable Craft Beverage Program offers incredible support, accessible resources, and a wealth of knowledge regarding the science of sustainability.

Breweries are able to take action in reducing waste, cutting costs, increasing efficiency, conserving resources, promoting a safer, healthier environment, and attract eco-conscious customers. The program is entirely free and includes ongoing assistance from the program. Participants receive a Certificate of Participation, Craft Beverage Logo, and recognition on DEEP's Sustainable Craft Beverage webpage. Additionally, promotional perks are provided through the agency's social media and community partners.

Photo: Courtesy photo to greenenergytimes.org

The Flying Goose Brew Pub & Grille. New Hampshire’s first solar-ran brewery.

Courtesy: Craftjacks.com

A pint of The Flying Goose’s Forever Locked Lager.

To maintain membership, your application must be submitted every two years. This ensures that improvement is ongoing, and breweries are continually evaluated on their environmental efforts.

Conneticut’s Department of Energy and Enviornmental Protection

connie.mendolia@ct.gov (860-424-3243) or deep.pollutionprevention@ct.gov.

Download and fill out the application form.

Sustainable breweries

Check out these breweries that not only craft exceptional beer, but also prioritize environmental sustainability.

New Belgium Brewing Company, Fort Collins, Colorado / Kevin Ekmark / Flickr

FaceMePLS from The Hague, The Netherlands, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Photo Credit: VisitPhoenix.com

The Cannabaceae Family comprises 170 species in 11 genera, including trees like Celtis, the largest in the family, as well as erect herbs such as Cannabis and twinning herbs like Humulus (or hops). Cannabis and hemp are two names for the same plant species, with the primary distinction being the amount of THC each contains. While hemp and hops share similar aromatic ingredients called terpenes, they have different appearances, uses, and chemical compositions. Hemp is primarily grown for fiber, oil, textiles, and medicinal extracts, while hops are a crucial ingredient in beer.

“Hemp is of first necessity to the wealth & protection of the country.” — Thomas Jefferson

Hops, the cones are typically used as a flavoring agent in beer, but also have antibacterial properties that aid in preserving the beer's shelf-life. Evidence of hops cultivation dates back to ancient times across various regions of the globe. In the 9th century, German monks utilized hops as a preservative and flavor enhancer in their beer, and by the 13th century, it had become an industry throughout Europe. Saaz Hop, one of the earliest hop varieties, remains in use today in Czech pilsners. Nowadays, hop cultivation is global with different varieties, including both classic European strains and experimental ones used by craft brewers. According to Brew Cabin, there are approximately 147 hop varieties worldwide. For brewing purposes hops are classified into four categories: bittering, aromatics, dual-purpose and nobles.

Industrial hemp

Industrial Hemp is a plant that can be used in many ways, making it an environmentally sustainable option. It can be utilized for its fiber, food, and oil production, among other things.

Hemp Cord

Hemp Cord is primarily used for crafting, jewelry making and home décor.

Industrial Hemp, is a product of the Cannabis Sativa plant species, is a popular ingredient used in various consumer products worldwide. This plant produces fiber and oilseed, with a low amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the psychoactive element that causes appetite stimulation (a.ka. munchies).

The stalks of the Cannabis Sativa plant are the source of hemp. This plant is highly sustainable, thanks to its speedy growth, which uses less water. Cultivating hemp also replenishes soil nutrients and improves soil health. The fibers from the stalks are versatile and can be used to create products such as paper, clothing, and ropes. However, the process of turning hemp into fabric is labor-intensive and requires a multi-step process, including cultivation, retting, breaking, scutching, hackling, roving, and spinning.

Slow Change

Making lifestyle changes can be rough, but with these simple tips, you’ll have environmentally friendly oasis in no time.

• The plan of action is simple - swap the fast and furious style craze for eco-friendly fashion choices.

• Go for sustainable materials.

• keep an eye on second-hand clothes.

• let your creative side loose with upcycling.

• Create a versatile capsule wardrobe that allows you to create looks with fewer items.

• Use them as building blocks for your new slow fashion closet.

• Research Sustainable online brands.

• Visit the thrift shops you use to drive by!

Sustainable Brands

here for hops

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kaci@hereforhops.com