MPs saw first-hand how the industry is leading the way in sustainable innovation and investment as part of the British Beer and Pub Association’s (BBPA) Brewing Green event this week.
The event, hosted by Jacob Collier MP, highlighted investment across the sector’s supply chain and how this supports green growth, local jobs and resilient communities.
Presentations from Heineken, Punch Pubs, ABInBev, and Greene King, among others, showed how the industry is reducing its environmental footprint while pursuing sustainable innovation and growth. Collectively, the sector has played a direct role in tackling the impact of climate change, achieving a 70% reduction in brewing emissions since 1990.
Some of the sector’s highlights include Heineken’s journey towards net zero carbon emissions across all major production sites. The company’s Manchester brewery is testament to this target, with a £25m investment into a state-of-the-art heat pump network projected to significantly reduce carbon emissions.
ABInBev has made strides in improving water efficiency across brewing, packaging, and cleaning; reducing evaporation rates by 50%; and significantly cutting their volume of cleaning water and chemicals used.
Pub companies have also shown a keen interest in investing into the circular economy. Greene King has partnered with reusable packaging innovators Again across 22 of their pubs in the North West of England. The initiative aims to reduce the amount of single-use glass bottles by having empty bottles thoroughly cleaned and disinfected at a CleanCell operated by Again, meaning bottles can be reused multiple times.
Punch used boiler upgrades and smart meters to improve the efficiency of their estate, which not only reduces the environmental impact of their operations, but also saves money for their licensees.
The BBPA said the showcase demonstrated why government must act to help the industry deliver growth and innovation in a sustainable way. It is calling on government to reduce the complexity and costs of the environmental regulatory framework, resource greater development of low-carbon technologies through investment, release potential for carbon reduction, and restore local resilience across the supply chain.
Unlocking potential
“It’s inspiring to see the UK’s beer and pub sector leading the way in green innovation and investment, proving that sustainable brewing can go hand-in-hand with economic growth,” said BBPA chief executive Emma McClarkin.
“This event showcased a clear commitment to green growth, but it’s also a timely reminder that these efforts need strong support — through policy, investment, and collaboration — if we’re to truly unlock their full potential. I commend the industry’s vision and urge continued backing to ensure a thriving, sustainable future.”
Jacob Collier MP added: “My constituency of Burton and Uttoxeter is the home of brewing, so I am delighted to be hosting the British Beer and Pub Association’s Brewing Green event in Parliament.
“Currently, the sector leads the way in sustainability, reducing waste and improving water efficiency, but there is always more to be done. I will continue to push for clearer tools and framework from the government, so our pubs and breweries can succeed in achieving their full potential when it comes to sustainability and green growth.”
