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Scotch whisky hits sustainability targets early
The Scotch whisky industry has successfully met its target to source 20% of energy from environmentally sustainable means – four years earlier than planned.
The Scotch whisky industry has surpassed a number of its sustainability targets
According to the Scotch Whisky Association’s (SWA) Environmental Strategy Report 2018, 21% of energy use across the industry now derives from non-fossil fuel sources, up from 3% in 2008.
The report also shows that greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 22% since 2008. And while Scotch whisky accounts for 20% of the UK’s food and drink exports, it is responsible for just 10.7% of energy use.
Meanwhile, net water use has dropped 29% since 2012, equating 1,800 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Recycling targets have also been met early. In 2016, 44% of the industry’s product packaging was recyclable, surpassing the 2020 target that 40% of product packaging will be made from recyclable materials.
Karen Betts, CEO of the SWA, said: “The Scotch whisky industry may be one of Scotland’s oldest and most successful exports, but these ambitious targets highlight how as a sector we are embracing innovation and technology to help protect the environment.
“Looking ahead, there is more work to be done to achieve all our 2020 goals. The SWA will continue to work with Scotch whisky producers, our supply chain, government and other stakeholders to ensure we continue to drive progress and deliver our sustainability strategy.”
Earlier this year, the SWA became one of numerous drinks industry groups to ban plastic straws and stirrers to reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment.