There are countless words in the spirits industry that elevate the perception of innovative efforts. Vocabulary that specifically wraps around what we put on the label; production methods such as small batch, finished whiskey, steeping and blending initiatives, to name a few. Yet an all too clear and necessary path for our future and true distillery innovation is gaining momentum toward the initiatives of sustainability. What does this mean for consumers and how do we define those efforts? It’s time to take a look at some of the top spirit companies and a key industry association to help lay out those future and current best practices. These unsung heroes of spirits don’t sign bottles, or make brand appearances, yet their impact on our tomorrow might be the most important initiative in the “spirit” of innovation.
MAKER’S MARK
Kim Harmon, director of safety and sustainability, Maker’s Mark Distillery
When do you feel that the industry truly took notice and action on sustainability efforts?
Maker’s Mark has been devoted to conservation since its inception due to having its water source on-site. I’ve worked in the sustainability field of the Bourbon industry for over 25 years. It’s been in the past 10-12 years where I’ve seen a large uptick in awareness and action in the spirits industry.
How do you define sustainability as it relates to our spirits industry?
True sustainability considers our impact on the planet, our people, and community. In addition, there must be a business case to review cost effectiveness. This approach is typically known as ‘people, planet, profit’. A truly sustainable project will reduce frustrations for employees and reduce environmental impact, while also creating an efficient process that generates associated savings.
What has your company/organization done in the last five years to promote efforts in the sustainability arena?
• Watershed Protection: Maker’s Mark has its own Natural Water Sanctuary that covers over 75 acres.• White Oak Preservation: Maker’s Mark has partnered with the University of Kentucky to study the genetic makeup of American white oak to conserve, explore, and secure the future of the species.• Renewable Energy: Maker’s Mark has a solar array in downtown Loretto that generates energy to off set its warehouse operations, with excess energy sent back to the grid. The waste• Zero Landfill: Maker’s Mark has been working diligently to eliminate landfill waste. Th rough increased recycling, reuse, and composting, we are committed to eliminating landfill waste. By the end of 2022, Maker’s Mark will have achieved zero landfill status.• B Corp/LEED: Maker’s Mark seeks accreditations to validate its programs in a true, genuine fashion. Maker’s Mark is the largest distillery in the world to achieve B Corp certification. We are pursuing LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] certification on all new construction, making value added decisions that support our B Corp goal.
