Brewers meet 2020 carbon emissions target eight years early

The figures, revealed in Brewing Green 2013​, show that during 2012 carbon emissions fell by 4% - a reduction of 67% since 1990 and an energy efficiency improvement of 36%. Although declining volumes are thought to be a factor, the BBPA has also acknowledged the efforts made by companies to reduce energy use and improve efficiencies as crucial in achieving this reduction in emissions.

The sector set a target of a 13.6% improvement in energy efficiency by 2020 compared to 2008 through participation in the Government’s Climate Change Agreements. Targets will now be reviewed during 2014 to set further objectives for 2020.

Water efficiency​

There has also been continued improvement in water efficiency within the sector, with UK brewers making a water saving efficiency gain of 4% between 2011 and 2012. The UK's pint-per-pint water use is ahead of our European counterparts at 4.2 hl/hl, making good headway towards the 2020 target.

Since the start of 2011, over six million hectolitres (240 Olympic swimming pools) of water have been saved at AB Inbev’s Magor brewery using water saving technology, while at Molson Coors’ Tadcaster brewery, water saving drought response measures and further investment in additional reverse osmosis equipment has been made to save water and provide further security of water supply in the future.

Packaging and waste​

The report shows the sector is also making significant progress in reducing excess packaging and waste, through the lightweighting of bottles and cans, among other measures. According to recent Environment Agency data, the industry has, as a whole, reduced the amount of waste disposed of by 83% since 2006.

Environmental commitment​

BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: “The brewing industry has been working hard to minimise its environmental impact for decades. These latest figures demonstrate that the sector is taking its environmental commitment seriously and delivering results.

“The latest fall in carbon emissions, the increasingly efficient use of water and the reduction in waste and packaging are all achievements to be proud of. Companies are taking the initiative and taking proactive business decisions to ensure that their brewing processes are as green as possible.

 “We recognise that we can do more to influence energy and water use in our supply chain – and we are also committed to reducing waste, particularly in packaging.

 “The brewing industry is being bold, open and progressive about its commitments. When it comes to an industry that is dedicated to improving our environmental performance, we want to ensure that it’s a case of ‘beer is best.’”