In the quest for sustainability, the brewing industry is raising a glass to innovation, with a groundbreaking study revealing how closed-loop supply chains can significantly cut carbon emissions and foster resource circularity. The research, led by Wu Hao from Hanyang University and published in ‘Discover Sustainability’ (translated from Chinese as ‘探索可持续性’), offers a blueprint for other resource-intensive sectors to follow.
The study, focusing on Tsingtao Brewery, demonstrates the power of precision engineering in creating a more sustainable brewing process. By implementing closed-loop supply chains (CLSC) and circular economy (CE) practices, the brewery achieved a remarkable 35.7% reduction in operational greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity and 8% water savings per unit output. These results are not just good for the environment; they also make good business sense, as reduced resource consumption and waste can lead to significant cost savings.
One of the key innovations highlighted in the study is the recovery of biomass from the brewing process, which can be used as organic fertilizer. “This not only reduces waste but also creates a valuable byproduct that can be sold or used within the company’s own supply chain,” explains Wu Hao. This is just one example of how the brewery has transformed its operations to embrace circularity.
Another significant achievement is the capture and recycling of carbon dioxide (CO2) during fermentation. The brewery has managed to divert a staggering 11,048 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually, contributing to its impressive carbon reduction figures. Moreover, the implementation of policy-enabled packaging loops has led to a 90% glass reuse rate, further enhancing the sustainability of the brewing process.
The study also identifies critical hotspots for emissions, such as raw material procurement and aluminum packaging. Wu Hao emphasizes the need for Extended Producer Responsibility frameworks to extend upstream to agriculture to consolidate these gains. “This is not just about the brewing process; it’s about the entire supply chain, from farm to fork,” he says.
The research provides a transferable blueprint for achieving China’s dual carbon targets in resource-intensive sectors. It offers valuable insights for the energy sector, where similar principles of circularity and efficiency can be applied to reduce emissions and improve sustainability.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, this study serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that significant reductions in carbon emissions are not only possible but also profitable. It challenges other industries to follow suit and embrace the circular economy, paving the way for a more sustainable future. With the findings published in ‘Discover Sustainability’, the stage is set for a new era of innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of sustainability.