UK – Encirc, a leading glass manufacturer and co-packer has partnered with the global leader in premium alcoholic drinks, Diageo to create the world’s first net-zero glass bottles at scale by 2030.
Under the partnership, Encirc will build a new furnace at its Elton plant, Cheshire, a move understood to be a world first, aims to reduce carbon emissions by 90% with an energy mix of green electricity and low carbon hydrogen.
The companies anticipate that the furnace, which will be fully operational in 2027, will be powered by zero-carbon electricity and low-carbon hydrogen from Vertex’s HyNet plant.
It is expected to produce up to 200 million bottles every year by 2030 for such brands as Smirnoff, Captain Morgan, Gordon’s, and Tanqueray.
The collaboration is thought to contribute to the UK government’s commitment to reach net zero by 2050.
Diageo also aims to reduce carbon emissions across its supply chain by 2030 through its ESG action plan Society 2030.
“We are really excited to be a part of this world-leading announcement which forms part of our commitment to halve our Scope 3 carbon emissions by 2030,” said Diago’s president of Global Supply & Procurement and chief sustainability officer, Ewan Andrew.
“All renewable energy options are important to us, and we’d like to see Government and industry further accelerating the direct supply of green energy as a mainstream option.
“Ultimately, we look forward to a world where people can enjoy their favorite drinks from zero-carbon glass bottles.”
Adrian Curry, managing director at Encirc added: “This will be a major step in our goal of producing net zero glass by 2030.
“With support from the Government and key partners, Encirc and Diageo we believe it will be possible to have this first-of-its-kind furnace up and running at the beginning of 2027.”
Encirc has worked with other beverage giants to help reduce emissions. Last year, the company worked with Molson Coors, which owns brands such as Carling and Coors Light, to introduce low-carbon bottles across the UK.
The partnership saw Molson Coors Beverage Company roll out new glass beer bottles that have reduced the carbon emissions associated with production by up to 90%.
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