Responsibly sourcing ingredients like hops, grain, and malt; promoting local and regional products; conserving raw materials.
Modifying processes or equipment to reuse and recycle water; implementing cleaning SOPs; switching to waterless processes; tracking water usage.
Side-streaming or filtering wastewater to limit suspended solids and control pH; collecting product losses for offsite disposal or beneficial reuse; mitigating stormwater runoff by preserving brewing solids and byproducts; securely enclosing all waste storage; sweeping up spills before rinsing with water.
Upgrading equipment or processes to conserve energy, boost efficiency, reduce energy consumption and limit emissions (e.g. lighting retrofits, HVAC and refrigeration leak detection). Sourcing renewable energy.
Using safer alternative chemicals and/or concentrations and temperatures.
Swapping disposable serviceware for reusable; separating waste for reuse and recycling.
Using compostable can carriers, reusable stretch wrap, and other eco-conscious packaging;
selling products in reusable containers; collecting and reusing packaging materials.
Partnering with conservation organizations; promoting alternative transport or other sustainability practices; training staff.
A recognition program can be an efficient and effective pollution prevention (P2) tool. This webinar shares insights from EPA New England and state partners about how the BetterBev collaboration strengthens their programs and expands their reach — and can be replicated.
This article published in the journal Sustainability examines the impact of technical assistance on Massachusetts craft breweries’ adoption of pollution prevention/sustainability practices. Among the questions explored in this piece are: What specific P2/sustainability practices are most likely and least likely to be adopted by craft breweries receiving TA, and why?
This article published in the journal Highlights of Sustainability provides empirical research about the environmental priorities, drivers, and barriers in the craft beer sector. It is based on a survey of 43 Massachusetts craft breweries.
Profiles available financing options to fund larger green brewing practices and projects including traditional and more innovative sources.