Closing the Carbon Loop: Revolutionizing Alcobev Industries with In-House CO₂ Capture and Reuse

Author: Keshav Goela Posted on: 25-04-24

The alcohol and beverage (alcobev) industry is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, with production processes generating substantial amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂). However, this challenge presents an opportunity for innovation and sustainability. By implementing in-house carbon capture utilization and Storage (CCUS) solutions, alcobev producers can revolutionize their operations, reducing their environmental impact while unlocking new operational efficiencies and revenue streams..

India's Groundbreaking Carbon Capture Policy

The alcobev industry's reliance on fermentation and brewing processes results in the release of CO₂ as a byproduct. It is estimated that alcoholic beverages, including beer, account for 0.7% of global greenhouse gas emissions [1] . However, this CO₂ can be captured and repurposed, closing the carbon loop and transforming what was once a waste stream into a valuable resource.

Carbon capture and utilization technologies offer alcobev producers a two-fold advantage: mitigating their carbon footprint and enhancing operational efficiency by reusing the captured CO₂ in various applications, such as beverage carbonation and purification processes. By implementing these innovative solutions, alcobev companies can position themselves as leaders in sustainability while simultaneously optimizing their operations and reducing costs.

CO₂ Challenges and Opportunities in Alcobev Production

The alcobev industry faces significant carbon emission challenges stemming from its energy-intensive production processes and the inherent release of CO₂ during fermentation and brewing. According to a study, One bottle of Beer (355ml) is equivalent to 0.25kg CO₂, or 1.3km of driving. [2] . This figure highlights the substantial environmental impact of the industry, particularly when considering the vast scale of global alcobev production.

However, these emissions also present a unique opportunity for alcobev producers to implement in-house carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) systems. By capturing the CO₂ generated during the brewing and fermentation processes, producers can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also leverage the captured CO₂ for various operational purposes.

In-house CO₂ solutions offer a dual benefit: emissions reduction and operational efficiency. Captured CO₂ can be purified and reused in beverage carbonation processes, eliminating the need for purchasing external CO₂ supplies and reducing transportation-related emissions. Additionally, the captured CO₂ can be utilized in other applications, such as purification processes, pH control, and even as a raw material for producing value-added products like dry ice or carbonates.

By embracing CCUS technologies, alcobev producers can significantly reduce their reliance on external CO₂ sources, streamline their operations, and minimize their environmental impact, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy.

Revolutionizing Operations with CO₂ Capture Technologies

Implementing CO₂ capture technologies in alcobev facilities requires the integration of specialized systems into existing production processes. While the specific technologies may vary depending on the facility's size and requirements, several proven solutions are available.

One widely adopted approach is the utilization of membrane separation systems, which selectively filter CO₂ from the gas stream generated during fermentation or brewing. These systems can be seamlessly integrated into the existing process lines, capturing the CO₂ before it is released into the atmosphere [3] .

Another effective technology is chemical absorption, which employs liquid solvents to selectively absorb CO₂ from the gas mixture. This method is particularly suitable for high-purity CO₂ capture, ensuring the captured gas meets the stringent quality requirements for beverage carbonation and other applications.

Regardless of the chosen technology, the captured CO₂ can be purified and liquefied for storage and subsequent utilization. This not only eliminates the need for purchasing external CO₂ supplies but also significantly reduces the alcobev producer's carbon footprint.

Utilizing the captured CO₂ for beverage carbonation offers substantial economic and sustainability benefits. By eliminating the need to purchase and transport CO₂ from external sources, alcobev producers can significantly reduce their operational costs and associated emissions from transportation [4] . Additionally, in-house CO₂ capture and reuse contribute to a more circular and sustainable production model, aligning with consumer preferences for environmentally responsible brands.

The Russian Perspective on Alcobev Sustainability

Russia is a significant player in the global alcobev market, with a well-established beer and spirits industry. Production of beer in Russia is set to reach 7.2 million metric tons in 2026, making it one of the largest beer producers in Europe [5] . However, this substantial production volume also contributes to the industry's carbon footprint, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.

The Russian alcobev industry has the potential to significantly benefit from the adoption of CO₂ capture and utilization technologies. By implementing these solutions, Russian producers can not only reduce their environmental impact but also gain operational efficiencies and cost savings associated with reusing captured CO₂.

The Russian government has been actively promoting sustainability initiatives across various industries, including the alcobev sector. The "Ecology" national project, launched in 2019, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage the transition towards a circular economy [6] . CO₂ capture and reuse align with these goals, offering a viable pathway for Russian alcobev producers to contribute to the country's sustainability efforts. By implementing CO₂ capture and reuse systems, Russian alcobev companies can position themselves as industry leaders in sustainability, catering to this growing consumer segment.

Incentives and Market Trends

The adoption of CO₂ capture and utilization technologies by alcobev producers is further encouraged by various financial incentives and regulatory frameworks aimed at promoting sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

Governments worldwide are implementing carbon pricing mechanisms, such as carbon taxes and emissions trading systems, to incentivize companies to reduce their carbon footprints. For instance, the European Union's Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) applies to certain industries, including the alcobev sector, creating a financial incentive for companies to invest in carbon-reducing technologies like CO₂ capture [7] .

Additionally, several countries offer tax credits, grants, and other financial incentives specifically for carbon capture projects. In the United States, the 45Q tax credit provides a significant financial incentive for companies that capture and utilize or store CO₂ from industrial processes [8] .

Beyond financial incentives, regulatory frameworks are also driving the adoption of CO₂ capture technologies. The European Union's Industrial Emissions Directive (IED) sets emission limits for various industries, including the alcobev sector, encouraging companies to explore solutions like CO₂ capture to comply with these regulations [9] .

Furthermore, the market for CO₂ utilization is witnessing substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable products and processes. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global CO₂ utilization market is projected to reach $6.9 billion by 2025, with the food and beverage industry being a significant contributor [10] . This market growth presents lucrative opportunities for alcobev producers to monetize their captured CO₂ by selling it to other industries or utilizing it for value-added product development.

Industry Success Stories

Here are some success stories that illustrate the practicality and benefits of CO₂ capture and utilization systems in the alcobev industry:

BrewDog is setting a sustainability benchmark in the alcobev industry with a significant £70 million investment in 2022, aimed at environmental stewardship alongside its expansion. A notable initiative is the installation of a CO₂ recovery system at their Ellon HQ, capturing CO₂ from fermentation to carbonate beers, showcasing their commitment to reducing carbon footprint through innovative recycling. This investment underscores BrewDog's dedication to pioneering sustainable practices that align with global efforts to combat climate change, reinforcing their role as a leader in sustainable brewing. [11] .

Carlsberg Group has boldly stepped forward with its commitment to achieving a zero carbon footprint, resonating with the Paris Agreement's ambition to cap global warming at 1.5°C. With strategic targets meticulously crafted in collaboration with the Carbon Trust, Carlsberg is not only focusing on eradicating carbon emissions at its breweries by 2022 but is also aiming for a 30% reduction in its 'beer-in-hand' carbon footprint. By 2030, the Group envisions a 50% cut in brewery carbon emissions, complete reliance on renewable electricity, the total elimination of coal use, and a significant 15% reduction in the beer-in-hand footprint. Committed to fostering sustainable practices across its value chain, Carlsberg is establishing 30 partnerships aimed at diminishing the shared carbon footprint, ensuring 100% low climate impact cooling. Carlsberg Group's forward-thinking targets underscore its dedication to leading the alcobev industry towards a sustainable, low-carbon future, contributing significantly to global efforts against climate change [12] .

These success stories demonstrate the practicality and economic viability of CO₂ capture and utilization systems in the alcobev industry, highlighting their potential to reduce emissions, optimize operations, and generate additional revenue streams.

Conclusion: Embracing Sustainability in Alcobev Production

The implementation of in-house CO₂ capture and utilization systems offers a multitude of advantages for the alcobev industry, making it a compelling solution for producers seeking to enhance their sustainability efforts and operational efficiencies. By capturing and reusing the CO₂ generated during the brewing and fermentation processes, alcobev companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprints, contribute to a circular economy, and comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

Moreover, the economic benefits of CO₂ capture and reuse are substantial. Eliminating the need for purchasing and transporting external CO₂ supplies results in significant cost savings, while the captured CO₂ can be monetized through various applications, such as beverage carbonation, purification processes, and the production of value-added products like dry ice or carbonates.

For Russian alcobev producers, the adoption of these innovative systems presents a prime opportunity to position themselves as industry leaders in sustainability, catering to the growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious products. With the Russian government's emphasis on promoting a circular economy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, CO₂ capture and utilization technologies align with the country's sustainability goals, potentially opening doors to financial incentives and regulatory support.

By embracing these cutting-edge solutions, Russian alcobev companies can not only contribute to the nation's environmental objectives but also gain a competitive edge in the global market, where sustainability is increasingly becoming a key differentiator. The time is ripe for Russian alcobev producers to invest in CO₂ capture and reuse systems, paving the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and profitable future for their industry.