Solid Waste Management Manual Updated

The Brewers Association (BA) has published the second edition of the widely regarded Solid Waste Management Manual, originally published in 2014 as the "Solid Waste Reduction Manual." BA staff and members of the Sustainability Subcommittee worked together to update and revise the original manual that was created with the sustainability management consulting team from Antea Group.

As recognized leaders in sustainable business operations, it is no surprise that many craft breweries and craft beverage producers have created new and innovative solutions for creatively addressing solid waste management challenges that have arisen since the original manual was published. The revised manual offers foundational information for setting up an effective solid waste management program and includes advice on how to address new challenges in brewery solid waste management. These challenges include plastic wraps and pressure-sensitive labels for aluminum cans, new materials used in packaging, new regulatory drivers such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation, and new demands from consumers to conform to sustainable initiatives like zero waste programs.

The manual's content reaches beyond a simple reduction of waste to landfills and explores financial incentives that can lead to operating cost reductions and new sources of revenue. Guidance is provided for those who are just beginning to explore solid waste reduction programs as well as those looking to improve a well-established program.

"Actively reducing and eliminating waste, alongside responsible waste management, is a cornerstone of operating a sustainable brewery and often a great start to your sustainability journey. Updated and modernized with best practices and insight from brewers that have established successful zero waste programs and processes, this manual offers a comprehensive overview and approach to rethinking waste."

Mandi MacKay, Chief Sustainability & Social Impact Officer at Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

The Solid Waste Management Manual is one of a series of manuals that address sustainable practices in brewing and beverage production. Similar revisions are planned for the Energy Usage, Green House Gas Reduction, Efficiency and Load Management Manual, Water and Wastewater: Treatment/Volume Reduction Manual, Wastewater Management Guidance Manual, and Sustainable Design and Build Strategies for Craft Brewers Manual.