Muntons says it is redefining the future of brewing with its Climate Positive Malt — the UK’s lowest-carbon malt for the craft brewing industry, launching today.
For more than 20 years, Muntons has embedded sustainability into every stage of its malt production, cutting on-site emissions by more than 60%.
Now, through regenerative agriculture methods and collaborative processes, the Suffolk-based business is actively helping to reduce on-farm emissions and supporting farming ecosystems, including through changing fertiliser use, low- (or no-) till farming, and cover crop planting.
“Malt, as a raw material, accounts for around 22% of CO2 emissions of a litre of craft beer,” said Mark Tyldesley, Muntons’ managing director. “And the biggest proportion (59%) of the carbon footprint for traditional maltings comes from growing of barley.”
Muntons’ Climate Positive Malt offers up to 30% lower CO2 emissions per tonne, compared to the UK malt average. The achievement comes from a combination of low-carbon maltings and sustainable barley farming practices. This helps brewers meet rising consumer demand for more eco-conscious products and businesses.
“We have a responsibility to show leadership in our sector, to keep pushing sustainability challenges, and make a real impact on the environment, while also helping our customers,” added Mark.
“By championing regenerative agriculture methods, such as cover cropping, low-/no-till farming, crop rotation, and reduced pesticide and fertiliser use, we’re partnering with farmers in enhancing soil health, sequestering carbon. and boosting biodiversity, all while delivering a high-quality malt product.”
Muntons believe that real sustainability progress comes from collaboration. By working closely with British farmers, brewers. and other industry partners, the 104-year-old business is building a more resilient and low-carbon supply chain, ensuring that malt — the foundation of great beers in the UK and around the world — continues to be of the highest quality, and is continually improving in terms of sustainability.
“Sustainability isn’t a side project for us, it’s at the heart of everything we do,” said Mark. “Our work with our partner farmers and regenerative agriculture is a game-changer, reducing malt’s carbon footprint while improving the land for future generations.”
Muntons has already cut its on-site emissions (Scope 1 emissions from directly-controlled assets and Scope 2 energy purchasing) by more than 60% since 2010, and is now setting new benchmarks through regenerative agriculture and Climate Positive Malt, working with British farmers to reduce emissions at source.
