Belgium-Brazilin company Anheuser-Busch InBev announced yesterday that it had reached a global water usage level of 3.5 hectoliters per hectoliter of production – an 18.6% reduction since 2009. 

In addition, it has reduced its worldwide energy use per hectoliter by 12% and carbon emissions by 15.7%, which is a 25% improvement compared with 2009.

In the UK the company has recycled 99.8% of its waste and brewing by-products.

The introduction in 2012 of 11% lighter Beck’s and Beck’s Blue bottles contributed to the achievement of its UK goals. The new bottles are estimated to have saved 2,642 tonnes of glass and 1,940 tonnes of CO2 this year.

According to the company, which employs 118,000 people, it achieved its target through an approach that combined a mix of operational changes, technological solutions, partnerships and a sustainability-focused mindset.

AB InBev’s UK and Ireland president Inge Plochaet said that protecting and promoting the environment was a fundamental part of its dream to be the “best beer company in a better world.”

The company will announce a new set of global environmental goals later this year, pending a review of this initial three-year cycle and consultation with stakeholders.

Conor McGlone

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