The UK beer and pub industry has made more progress in its efforts to tackle climate change and other environmental challenges, according to Brewing Green, the British Beer and Pub Association’s annual environment commitments report.
The report notes that:
• Brewers’ energy efficiency rose again, by 1.2% in 2014. There has been an overall improvement of 11.6% since 2008 (the base year). The industry remains on track to achieve its 19% reduction target by 2020.
• Carbon emissions fell by 1.2% in 2014, with a reduction of 29.2% since 2008, almost reaching the targeted 30% reduction by 2020.
• Water efficiency rose by 6% in 2014, with a 39% increase in efficiency since 1990, on track to reach the 42% reduction target by 2020.
Alongside a host of company case studies, the report also highlights the success of two BBPA-led industry initiatives: ESOS, a new scheme designed to reduce the costs associated with the new Energy Saving Opportunities Scheme, and Sustain, a major partnership initiative which is cutting the cost of members’ packaging waste.
The association has also called on the Government to make sure that the recent Government review of business energy efficiency policy does not disadvantage brewers, at a time when the sector is playing its part in improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Writing in the foreword, BBPA chief executive, Brigid Simmonds, says: “The sector continues to invest in innovation and efficiency and it is paying off, with further improvements in water efficiency, another reduction in energy use and more companies moving towards zero waste, so that we remain well on track to meet our strengthened 2020 targets.”
