Asahi Group ups sustainability efforts with carbon-neutral goal

Asahi Group will aim to achieve zero CO2 emissions by 2050, as part of a raft of sustainability goals set out by the Japanese beer maker.

The firm – owner of brands such as Peroni, Grolsch and Tyskie – is working to achieve a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions from a 2015 benchmark in its Japanese businesses by 2030. It will pursue energy savings, actively utilise green power and other renewable energy sources, and implement initiatives across the entire value chain.

Asahi will also aim for 100% sustainable procurement of agricultural raw materials. It will pursue further weight reduction in containers and undertake the development and introduction of eco-friendly containers through an increased use of recycled PET bottles.

Within its domestic business, the company hopes to realise 100% restoration of the water used by 2025.

In a statement, the brewer said: “We will create positive value for the environment through our businesses and seek solutions to social issues by leveraging strengths originating in proprietory technologies, including the utilisation of yeast, lactic acid bacteria, and other microorganisms.”

Last month, Asahi launched the Asahi Group Philosophy, a new initiative which sets out to “contribute to a sustainable society”.

In a move to enter new categories such as cask ale and cider, Asahi last month acquired the entire beer, cider, soft drinks and distribution business of the UK’s Fuller, Smith & Turner for a value of £250 million.

The two companies agreed to arrangements that will see beers from across the Asahi portfolio sold in Fuller’s-owned pubs and tenanted outlets. Fuller’s will carry its former brands, alongside the existing Asahi Europe portfolio, across its pubs and hotels.

As part of the deal, brands such as cask beers London Pride and Dark Star Hophead, craft lager Frontier, as well as Cornish Orchards cider will join the Asahi product portfolio.