The Brewers of Europe Virtual Sustainability Forum 20-21 October 2020
Watch the videos now!
Six sessions over two days, learn how brewing can help biodiversity and the environment. From unpicking relevant policy to the latest technical solutions, if you care about brewing green you don’t want to miss this event.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
The Brewers of Europe aim to have a positive impact on society, people and the planet.
For many years we have encouraged sustainable practices in our brewing processes, in our supply chains, and in how beer is consumed and enjoyed.
We are central to a circular European economy and our progress goes hand-in-hand with the aims of the new European Green Deal.
The beer sector today innovates, leads by example and brings people together for sustainability.
WHAT WE DO
From micro to macro, the diverse number and type of breweries have made direct improvements on the use of water, energy, transport and packaging.
We’re committed to reducing CO2 emissions, waste and providing the reuse of secondary products through innovative processes and solutions in partnership with others.
There’s more to be done and we’re working with our suppliers, distributors and retailers to follow the same philosophy.
WHY NOW
This is the launch of our platform on sustainability in the beer sector, but brewers have long encouraged sustainable practices in our brewing processes, in our supply chains, and in how beer is consumed and enjoyed.
Now there is an opportunity to combine our expertise and leadership as members of The Brewers of Europe to show collectively how we can contribute to the overarching European and global commitments and ambitions.
The EU Green Deal remains one of the six cross-sectoral priorities for the European Commission, relating to the UN Sustainable Development Goals that are important strategic ambitions across the world.
The Brewers of Europe is a vital competent of this strategy.
It is part of the ‘grain to glass’ strategy for our industry – beer is central to a circular economy and an interconnected part of many sectors. We want to make sure that sustainability is implemented throughout our organisations for the good of the planet.
The COVID19 crisis has been hugely disruptive and damaging to our sector in Europe. However, our commitment to sustainability remains at the heart of our priorities and will continue to be central to any ‘green recovery’ as the brewing sector rises from the current crisis.
Latest initiatives
Bergenbier “Refresh and Reforest!” in Romania
“Refresh and reforest!" is one of the largest reforestation projects organized by a brewer in Romania, awakening beer lovers' desire to do good to the nature.
Circular fridges to zero waste at HEINEKEN Mexico
HEINEKEN is working with one of its fridge manufacturers in Mexico to collect more than 7,300 used fridges from the market. This means that 99.8% of the components of old fridges can now be reused, remanufactured or recycled.
HEINEKEN pioneers zero-emission shipping in the Netherlands
Zero Emission Services B.V., a Dutch company, is introducing interchangeable battery containers to make inland shipping emission-free, HEINEKEN is their first client. The company has entered into a 10-year agreement, making great step towards climate-neutral logistics in the Netherlands.
Our contribution
INNOVATION
6,000 years in the making: innovating for sustainability at every step in the process and every link in the supply chain.
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
We promote, demonstrate and act on sustainability so that others can follow our lead.
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
Locally rooted, globally relevant: working together for a sustainable future.
OUR DIVERSITY
From micro to macro, brewers can make direct improvements because our diversity is our strength.
OUR AREAS OF FOCUS
ENERGY
Building more energy efficient breweries leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
PACKAGING
Innovative packaging solutions, recyclable containers and schemes.
WATER EFFICIENCY
Ensuring our number one ingredient is protected and nature is supported by our operations.
SECONDARY PRODUCTS
Using brewers’ grain, yeast and other by-products to cut waste and enhance biodiversity, returning nutrients to nature.
CIRCULARITY
Aiming to eliminate waste and create a truly circular economy.
TRANSPORT
Moving beer in the best way possible. Working with our supply chain on solutions such as emissions-free trucks and even canal boats.
