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The brewing industry, like many others, is experiencing a seismic shift in its operations as it strives to reduce its carbon footprint. Central to this transformation is the introduction of low carbon hops, a new product that allows breweries to craft delicious beers with substantially reduced environmental impact.
The Environmental Impact of Hop Production
Traditionally, hop production has been a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. It involves inputs such as water, fertilizers, pesticides, and fuel, each of which can have a substantial environmental impact. According to research, the drying process alone accounts for approximately 47% of the carbon footprint of hop production.
Additionally, the changing global climate is posing new challenges to hop production, with increased temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns affecting yields and quality. For instance, hop growers in the Yakima Valley, responsible for 40% of the world’s hop supply, have faced a series of crises, including violent windstorms, heatwaves, and wildfires.
The Emergence of Low Carbon Hops
In response to these environmental challenges, a new type of hop product, known as low carbon hops, has been developed. These hops contain a higher level of moisture than traditional kiln-dried hops, making them heavier and less likely to dissolve like a T90 pellet.
But how are low carbon hops created? A key player in this revolution is a specialist company in the UK with a wealth of experience in the food technology sector. They have developed a preservation process that quickly and safely locks in the essential oils, flavours, and aromas that brewers need while eliminating harmful bacteria.
This process results in hops that, while weighing more than their kiln-dried counterparts, offer the same aroma and flavour profiles. Brewers may need to adjust their usage rates to achieve the equivalent alpha acidity levels. However, lab tests indicate that these changes do not negatively impact the individual hop aroma and flavour profiles.
The Role of Brewers in Promoting Low Carbon Hops
Brewers play a critical role in promoting the use of low carbon hops. By choosing to incorporate these environmentally friendly hops into their brewing processes, they can significantly reduce their brews’ carbon footprints.
For example, New Image Brewing, a leading brewing company, has hired a consultant to analyse its carbon footprint. The company is exploring solar energy, CO2 recapture, regenerative barley, and purchasing offsets. It also recognises that every bit counts when it comes to reducing emissions, including those from hops.
The Role of Hop Growers in the Low Carbon Revolution
Hop growers also have an important role to play in promoting low carbon hops. By adopting sustainable farming practices, they can not only reduce their carbon emissions but also improve their crops’ overall quality and yield.
For example, the Hopsteiner Breeding Program focuses on improving hop quality while pursuing disease-resistant traits for better overall agronomics. Meanwhile, other hop growers are exploring renewable energy sources to further reduce their emissions.
The Journey Towards Carbon Neutral Hops
The journey towards carbon neutral hops is not a solo endeavour. It requires collaboration between hop growers, breweries, and consumers. As this movement gains momentum, sustainable farming practices, alternative energy sources, and carbon offsetting initiatives are becoming increasingly important.
Innovative companies like Ekonoke are leading the way, growing hops hydroponically in industrial units using less water and energy. Other initiatives, such as the Salmon-Safe certification, ensure that farming practices protect water quality and habitat for salmon and other wildlife.
Here at Hukins Hops, we are committed towards low carbon farming and as a whole our farm is carbon negative thanks to the many things such as our wildflower meadows and our solar panels that power the farm.
The Role of Carbon Offsetting
Carbon offsetting is another important strategy in reducing the brewing industry’s carbon footprint. Companies like Drop Bear Beer Co. have achieved carbon neutrality by supporting global projects, including a certified wind energy project in Brazil.
The Future of Low Carbon Hops
The rise of low carbon hops is a promising development for the brewing industry. Sustainable farming practices, alternative energy sources, and carbon offsetting initiatives are paving the way for an environmentally friendly and economically sustainable hop-growing industry.
As climate change continues to pose challenges, the industry will need to continue innovating and collaborating to ensure a better future for all. The journey towards low carbon hops is a collective effort, and everyone, from the hop growers to the breweries and the consumers, has a part to play.
The Role of Carbon Neutral Breweries by 2030
For UK breweries to become carbon neutral by 2030, they need to adopt a series of sustainable practices. These include measuring and reducing carbon emissions, transitioning to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, sourcing ingredients sustainably, implementing effective waste management practices, exploring greener transportation options, and investing in verified carbon offset projects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rise of low carbon hops signifies a critical step towards a more sustainable brewing industry. By adopting innovative farming practices, exploring renewable energy sources, and implementing carbon offsetting initiatives, the industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint. As we look towards the future, it’s clear that the journey towards carbon neutral hops is not only possible but also necessary for the health of our planet.
