Guest post: In 2014, the beer industry as a whole contributed $252.6 billion dollars to the United States economy—that’s twice the contribution of the wine industry. With such a huge impact on the economy, what kind of impression are beer companies making on the environment? Here’s how Florida breweries incorporate eco-friendly practices while they develop our favorite hoppy drinks.
Packing Light
The less packaging used by the beer industry, the better it is for the environment. Saltwater Brewery in Delray Beach, Florida has taken this idea a step further by inventing beer pack rings made from wheat and barley waste, which are byproducts from brewing beer. Marine life can nibble on the packaging, or it will disintegrate in the water after roughly two hours, preventing any creatures from trapping themselves in the rings. On land, it will take about two to three months to completely dissolve, but that’s no time at all compared to the estimated 450 years plastic six-pack rings could sit in a landfill.
No Animal Byproducts
Many people consider vegan beer to be more environmentally thoughtful because it does not use products derived from animals. It’s assumed that beer is simply made from water, malt, hops, and yeast—and perhaps orange peel, sugar, cloves or the like for further flavoring. But the inclusion of honey or some “finings” can deem a beer undesirable for vegetarians or vegans. “Finings” are used to clear up a cloudy brew, and fish bladders or animal gelatin are often implemented to achieve an unblemished beer. Interest vegan beer has spread enough to warrant a South Florida Vegan Beer Fest, which should be kicking off soon.
Free of Pesticides
Breweries that take the time and care to use organic products have a environmentally friendly mentality when it comes to making beer. In Florida, Orlando Brewing uses only organic ingredients in their beers that are “grown without any insecticides, genetically engineered food, genetically modified organisms, sewage sludge, or irradiation.” Many beer-lovers can note a taste difference when indulging in an organic brew.
Embracing Solar Power
To run their breweries in a more eco-friendly way, breweries can harness the power of the constant Florida sun by using solar panels—something that we at Modernize are passionate about. Swamp Head Brewery in Gainesville, Florida is helping to trailblaze this path by adorning their roof with over 50 panels. Using solar panels increases awareness of the environment and energy use, and Swamp Head Brewery is a great example of this. They purchased an acre of land next to their brewery solely for the purpose of land conservation, and they use as many local products as possible. Swamp Head even donates extra grain to nearby farmers.
Delicious and Considerate
By taking steps toward becoming more organic and less wasteful, and using solar power as an alternative means of electricity, the beer industry will propel itself into the future of successful, environmentally friendly businesses. Savvy patrons are taking notice of how Florida beer companies are treating the earth, and the extra care goes a long way when it comes to longevity, sustainability, and even taste.
Many thanks to Modernize.com for providing this article and food for thought.