Sustainability on Tap
Brewing has a significant environmental impact. On average, a brewery consumes six gallons of water to produce one gallon of beer. Similarly, include Ingredients sourced globally, cans and kegs transported nationwide, and non-recyclable packaging further compounds the environmental toll. Enviornmental implications are often overlooked when enjoying a cold beer.
What is sustainable brewing?
In addition to water conservation efforts, breweries are integrating renewable energy sources into their production methods. By installing solar panels, wind turbines, and biogas generators, breweries can utilize clean energy and decrease their dependence on fossil fuels. This shift to renewable energy aids breweries in diminishing their carbon footprint, leading to significant cost savings over time. Emphasizing sustainability allows breweries to contribute to environmental preservation and appeal to eco-conscious consumers. In today’s market, consumers actively seek out products that reflect their values, making sustainable brewing practices a key factor in giving breweries a competitive edge.
An exemplary example of a sustainable brewery is Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company.
Local sourced Malt and Barley is a sustainable brewing method.
In case you haven’t heard, the water situation in the Southwest is concerning. Factors such as ongoing drought, increased demand, and the impact of climate change have led to a significant decrease in water levels in key reservoirs like Lake Mead, a crucial water source for Arizona. In January 2023 Arizona imposed federal regulations to limit water use in Arizona. To address this crisis and promote a potential solution, Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. introduced, “This Beer Saves Water”.
A Beer that saves water?!
But how does beer play a role in water conservation? This Beer Saves Water is uses locally source barley from Sinaga Malt. Located in Arizona’s Verde Valley, Sinagua collaborates with local farmers to transition from conventional summer crops like corn and alfalfa to barley, a crop grown in late winter and spring. However, this shift reduces water usage from the Verde River during periods of high demand and low streamflow, preserving more water for both people and wildlife. Since 2019, Sinagua’s initiatives have conserved over 425 million gallons of water in the Verde River. Every beer from Arizona Wilderness incorporates Sinagua Malt, with This Beer Saves Water exclusively using 100% Sinagua.
In conclusion, Arizona Wilderness determined that each pint of, This Beer Saves Water, as well as every beer from Wilderness, helps save more than 50 gallons of water for Arizona’s water systems.
Their goal is to inspire individuals to consider water conservation and support businesses committed to sustainability. As the water crisis escalates in the Southwest, such efforts will only grow in significance.
For more information on the Sinagua Malt Investment Project
For more articles on Sustainable Brewing
Take a look at these other breweries doing their part to making sustainability a priority.