45 Net-zero alcohol

Net-zero alcohol

Global distilleries are addressing climate change by going carbon neutral.

Alcoholic brands are reinventing their processes to be more sustainable and less wasteful to combat climate change. In addition to new carbon-neutral distilleries such as Air Company and Bespoken Spirits, traditional spirits brands are promising to do better for the planet with reformed operations.

Diageo opened its first carbon-neutral distillery in North America in September 2021. The operation will use 100% renewable electricity, zero fossil fuels for production, and virtual metering technology by 2030. It will also support the local community with 30 full-time jobs and even source 100% non-GMO corn locally. The spirits giant announced plans in 2020 to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 as part of its Society 2030: Spirit of Progress initiative. Some of its distilleries, such as Oban and Royal Lochnagar, are already carbon neutral.

Air Company manufactures its alcohol from recaptured carbon dioxide (CO2) and takes an extra pound of carbon from the air in the process. After launching in 2020, the company won first place in the NASA CO2 Conversion Challenge in August 2021.

Absolut Vodka announced in May 2021 that all production is on track to function fully without fossil fuels by 2025. Declared carbon neutral back in 2013, it is ahead of the game, boasting 85% renewable energy, sending zero waste to landfills, and repurposing by-products either for fuel or food for farm animals.

Why it’s interesting As prominent spirits distilleries join the fight against climate change, the food and beverage industry is lowering its production waste and carbon emissions.