Carlsberg cuts carbon emissions by 30% since 2015

Carlsberg has announced that it has reduced its relative carbon emissions by 30% at its breweries since 2015, as it indicates ‘solid progress’ towards its sustainability targets.

The Danish brewer made the announcement as part of its 2019 Sustainability Report, indicating the brand’s progress towards its sustainability programme Together Towards Zero, that it established in June 2017.

In its programme, Carlsberg stated that it would use 100% renewable electricity as a source of energy by 2022, and the report shows that 56% of the energy used is now from renewable sources.

The company added that 29 of its breweries in Western Europe now use 100% renewable electricity sourced through solar installations.

As part of its sustainability commitment, Carlsberg cut its coal usage by 89% by weight since 2015, with 13 sites eliminating coal since 2017. The group plans to convert the remaining two coal-fuelled sites in India and Poland during 2020.

Another key highlight includes Carlsberg’s 12% reduction in relative water consumption since 2015 along with plans for a major investment in water-recycling technology at its Danish brewery.

The company will continue to focus on packaging solutions and roll out its Snap Pack multipack solution, recycled shrink wrap and recycled content in PET bottles. Last year, Carlsberg unveiled its Green Fibre Bottle, the first “paper bottles” to contain beer, made in partnership with Paboco.

The company also emphasises the importance of collaboration with local partners and global experts across the value chain such as carbon-reducing partnerships formed with ten suppliers.

Carlsberg Group CEO Cees ‘t Hart said: “By working with leading global experts and strong local partners, we’ve reduced relative carbon emissions by 30% and water usage by 12% since 2015. Collaboration will become even more important as we approach our 2030 ambitions.

“Nobody can solve the sustainability challenges the world faces alone. That’s why we called our programme ‘Together’ Towards Zero. By working in partnerships, we’re able to make faster progress and deliver change that would otherwise not be possible.”