Scotch Whisky industry halves greenhouse gas emissions

By Rachel Arthur

- Last updated on GMT

Pic:getty/cvino
Pic:getty/cvino
The Scotch Whisky industry has cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50% since 2008, according to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).

The sector is targeting net zero emissions in operations by 2040.

From 2008 to 2020, the industry reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 53%.

Energy efficiency in distilleries improved by 13% against a 2020 target of 7.6%. 

And 39% of energy comes from non-fossil fuels: up from 3% in 2008 and overshooting the 2020 target of 20% non-fossil fuel energy.

Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) said: “These are very encouraging figures to release as COP26 gets underway in Glasgow, and as the Scotch Whisky industry continues on its journey to net zero. 

"We still clearly have progress to make, but we are determined to reach our 2040 net zero target across the whole industry, not least as the future of one of Scotland’s most historic and successful industries depends on it, as do the people we employ and the communities in which we are based.

“As we face this next, decisive decade Scotch Whisky distillers are redoubling their collaborative efforts not only to reverse the impacts of climate change but to ensure that our industry makes an overall positive impact on the environment around us.”

The industry has also pledged to use water responsibly; ensure by 2025 all new packaging will be reusable, recyclable or compostable; and play an active role in the wider conservation and restoration of Scotland’s peatland.

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