AB InBev debuts formal packaging reduction
Beer giant AB InBev has announced seven new global environmental targets, which includes setting a formal reduction for packaging for the first time
It aims to decrease packaging by 100,000 tonnes by the end of 2017 – the equivalent to the weight of about a quarter of a billion full cans of beer.
In the past, the beer giant said it has encouraged packaging reductions but not formally, in an effort to reduce fuel consumption, increase its use of recycled content and cut back on waste. For example, in the UK, certain Beck’s bottles were redesigned to use less glass and they are now 11% lighter and require less energy to produce.
AB InBev said that its new goals will focus on addressing the challenges faced by key areas for beverage facilities and barley growing regions.
“AB InBev’s new environmental goals focus on where it matters most – continuing to drive operational excellence, working intensely in key regions, and making the most efficient use of our shared resources,” said Anheuser-Busch InBev chief executive Carlos Brito.
Brito: “Our approach recognizes that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to improve sustainability. The key will be to leverage the experience and expertise of our colleagues globally, foster a collective approach through partnerships with local stakeholders, and continue to scale best practices across our company.”
AB InBev aims to reach the goals, which are shared across 24 countries, by the end of 2017. The New Global Environmental Goals are set against a 2012 baseline:
- Reduce water risks and improve water management in 100% of our key barley growing regions in partnership with local stakeholders;
- Engage in watershed protection measures at 100% of our facilities located in key areas in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Mexico, Peru and the United States, in partnership with local stakeholders;
- Reduce global water usage to a leading-edge 3.2 hectoliters of water per hectoliter of production, which is equivalent to about 5,400 Olympic-sized swimming pools;
- Reduce global greenhouse gas emissions per hectoliter of production by 10%, including a 15% reduction per hectoliter in China;
- Reduce global energy usage per hectoliter of production by 10%, which is equivalent to the amount of electricity needed to light about a quarter of a million night football matches;
- Reduce packaging materials by 100,000 tonnes, which is equivalent to the weight of about a quarter of a billion full cans of beer; and
- Reach a 70% global average of eco-friendly cooler purchases annually.
