Diageo’s Valleyfield distillery to become carbon neutral by 2025

Diageo is receiving financial contributions of CAD 45.8 million ($36.8 million approx.) to support a project that will see its Valleyfield distillery become carbon neutral by 2025.

The investments are from the governments of Quebec and Canada, along with Hydro-Québec. 

The Salaberry-de-Valleyfield facility will be Diageo’s first distillery in North America to make the transition to carbon neutrality. This will be done by converting the facility from natural gas and fuel oil to electricity. The site will acquire specialised equipment, such as a mechanical vapour recompression evaporator, steam dryers and an electric boiler.

During peak periods, the facility will also use alternative green energy sources to maintain its production.

Ewan Andrew, president, global supply & procurement and chief sustainability officer at Diageo, said: “Today’s announcement marks an important milestone for our North American operations and our global carbon footprint”.

He continued: “As part of our Society 2030: Spirit of Progress plan we are committed to reaching zero net carbon emissions by 2030 and we are very grateful for this partnership with the Quebec government, which allows us to make significant progress in creating a more sustainable world”.