Estrella de Levante reuses 99% of the organic waste it generates in the brewing process
As a result, the Murcian brewery is one step closer to achieving zero waste and is positioned as one of the leading brewers in Europe in the circular economy
Estrella de Levante reuses 99% of the by-products left over from the brewing process at the Espinardo brewery, according to Juan Antonio López Abadía, technical director and head of the Environmental Department of the Murcian brewery, at the 'Loop' Circular Economy Fair, promoted by Murcia City Council.
This figure puts Estrella de Levante one step away from reaching zero waste and positions it as one of the leading breweries in Europe in circular economy. López Abadía explained that "bagasse and yeast are used as animal feed in fish farms and farms. In addition, the yeast beer is recovered - a reduction of two percent of the total beer brewed". These processes, which have been developed through two research projects over the last decade, have involved the universities of Murcia and the Polytechnic of Cartagena.
In addition, Estrella de Levante reuses the energy released in the manufacturing processes. "All CO₂ emissions from the fermenters are captured and reused in the brewing process and biogas from wastewater treatment plants is used as fuel," said López Abadía.
More than 10 years developing circular economy projects
Within the framework of its global circular economy strategy, led by the Environment Department, Estrella de Levante promotes initiatives with the aim of reducing its environmental footprint. One of the most recent is the 'Second Life' Project, through which they give a second life to all the brand's terrace support material for the hotel and catering establishments throughout its area of influence, thanks to a conscientious organization and restoration work.
Some of the most important projects include reusing all bagasse for animal feed, calculating water and carbon footprints to improve production processes, and replacing plastic cups with biodegradable cups at all the brand's events.
Estrella de Levante has also installed more than fifty can collection points along the Costa Cálida and Costa Blanca coastline to encourage recycling. Estrella de Levante collaborates with different associations to employ people in vulnerable situations, who carry out maintenance work.
In addition, the brand has focused on boosting energy and water efficiency at its facilities, where all the electricity purchased is certified green. As a result, it has managed to reduce its CO₂ emissions by 60% over the last ten years. This is in addition to reducing the brand's water consumption during the brewing process by 30% over the past decade.
