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Diageo is implementing heat pumps and biogas to achieve net zero emissions in Guinness production. This innovative approach underscores their commitment to sustainable brewing and environmental responsibility, aiming to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their operations.
By Steven Downes May 20, 2024 4 mins
Guinness is decarbonising its brewing HQ
Diageo is investing $110 million to decarbonize its St James’s Gate headquarters, with the goal of phasing out fossil fuel use and producing net zero Guinness by 2030. This substantial investment will transform energy and water consumption at the historic Dublin brewery, where Guinness has been brewed for 264 years. Diageo aims to accelerate the site’s transition to net zero carbon emissions and make it one of the most efficient breweries globally by 2030.
The investment was announced at St. James’s Gate by Diageo’s Global CEO Debra Crew, along with Taoiseach Simon Harris, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke, and CEO of Enterprise Ireland Leo Clancy.
Diageo states that the investment will allow St. James’s Gate to eliminate fossil fuel use in its brewing operations and reduce the site's Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by over 90%, aligning with the Science Based Target initiative’s definition of net zero.
Diageo further explains: “By 2030, the site’s renewable energy strategy will integrate grid-supplied electrical power, heat pumps, and biogas generated from a new water recovery facility. This facility will also enhance water use efficiency, aiming to reduce the water required to brew Guinness by 30%.”
Diageo, a global leader in beverage alcohol, boasts a diverse collection of brands across spirits, beer, and wine categories. Their portfolio includes Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan’s, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray, and Guinness. Diageo products are available in over 180 countries.
The company is currently preparing a planning application for the decarbonisation project, which will be submitted to Dublin City Council later this year.
Diageo’s Global CEO Debra Crew stated: “St. James’s Gate is a historic location for an iconic brand. We’re 260 years into our 9,000-year lease at St. James’s Gate, and this investment will ensure that Guinness has an exciting and long-term sustainable future. We are proud to lead the way in decarbonisation, both as a major Irish business and as an industry leader.”
Simon Harris praised Diageo’s leadership in decarbonising its operations and being at the forefront of sustainable business. He remarked: “This is not just a green transformation for St. James’s Gate but a flagship initiative that will send a strong message to the world. It also demonstrates the Government’s commitment to helping businesses, big and small, make the green transition and achieve our climate goals.”
This plan is the latest effort by Guinness to safeguard its business.
Diageo is actively working to reduce its carbon emissions both globally and in Ireland, in alignment with its 10-year ESG action plan, Society 2030: Spirit of Progress.
The company emphasizes its commitment to "significant science-based action to create a sustainable low carbon future."
“Today’s announcement represents the next step in an integrated approach towards achieving net zero in its direct operations,” Diageo added.
Source: sustainabilitymag
