Beam Suntory has unveiled plans to reduce the environmental impact of its Sauza Tequila brand through a new project in Mexico.
The pilot, set up in collaboration with environmental services company Red BioTerra, focuses on the agave fields around the Casa Sauza distillery in the country and will involve additional plantings between the rows of agave that can absorb carbon. Initially set to run for one year, the company hopes to “neutralise” 50% of the emissions from Sauza’s production operations by 2026.
The longer-term aim is to neutralise all emissions by 2030.
“We are proud to be kicking off this new pilot programme, which has the potential to capture more than 36,800 tons of carbon per year – leading to healthier soil, increased biodiversity and reduced soil erosion,” said Casa Sauza’s GM of Tequila operations, Servando Calderon.
If successful, the arrangement provides the scope for an extension of seven years.
Late last year, Bloomberg reported that Beam Suntory was considering the divestment of some of its spirits brands, including Cruzan rum and Pinnacle vodka. No developments on these fronts have been forthcoming since.
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