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Chivas invests in carbon-saving fertiliser
In its latest move towards creating a sustainable future for whisky, Chivas Brothers is trialling a low-carbon fertiliser.
In partnership with its distilling wheat supplier Simpsons Malt, the Scotch arm of Pernod Ricard has invested in a pilot run for Nutramon Low Carbon, a low-carbon calcium ammonium nitrate fertiliser that greatly reduces carbon emissions.
The fertiliser was created by OCI Global and is produced using certified bio-gas. This is estimated to reduce the carbon footprint of production by 50%, compared to what comes from conventionally produced fertilisers.
In addition, Chivas Brothers noted that while the composition and effectiveness is equal to conventional fertiliser, using this eco-friendly alternate version equates to a 15-20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the barley and wheat grown for distilling.
Taking place from August to October 2024, the pilot run will see a select number of farmers from the brand’s Wheat Growers Group – who provide the wheat grown for the distilling of many of Chivas Brothers’ blended whiskies – harvest crops using the bio-based fertiliser.
The wheat and malted barley will then be used in the production of blended Scotch brand Ballantine’s.
During the pilot a Wheat Growers Group meeting will take place where the farmers will share results of the green fertiliser.
Once the impact of the trial has been assessed, Chivas Brothers and Simpsons Malt will look at a wider roll-out of the fertiliser and how it can be used to further contribute to reducing carbon emissions from the supply chain.
One example listed was ‘using green ammonia produced by electrolysis with renewable electricity leveraging on cooperation with OCI Global’s low carbon ammonia portfolio’. This process is said to create up to 90% less carbon emissions than traditional fertilisers.
Andy Hindhaugh, commercial director at Simpsons Malt, said: “We are deeply committed to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of our operations. This collaboration with Chivas Brothers and OCI Global on the trial of low-carbon Nutramon fertiliser represents a significant step towards achieving these goals.
“By working closely with our farmers to adopt innovative, low-carbon solutions, we are not only enhancing the sustainability of our supply chain but also contributing to a greener future for the whisky industry. We are excited about the potential of this initiative and look forward to its expansion and the positive impact it will have on our environmental footprint.”
As part of its pledge to reach net zero by the end of 2026, Chivas Brothers has launched a variety of initiatives to support the environments in Scotland that pave the way for its whisky production.
These have included protecting the region’s farmers and waterways.
“We’re on a mission to reduce carbon emissions throughout our supply chain and that requires us to be at the forefront of new innovations that come to market,” added Ronald Daalmans, sustainability director at Chivas Brothers.
“We cannot do this alone, which is why like minded partners such as Simpsons Malt Limited and OCI Global are so important to helping us realise this ambition. Together with our farming community, we’re limiting the environmental impact of cereal crops destined for our whiskies.
“We look forward to continuing and expanding this initiative, as well as sharing our findings and experiences with the wider farming and whisky industries to help drive positive change across Scotland and beyond.”
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