Sustainable Gin for You
Welcome to this week’s Play It Green sustainability tip, where we explore the world of sustainable gin. Each week we highlight the power of small changes in creating a more eco-friendly future. By opting for sustainable gin choices, you can contribute to reducing environmental harm while enjoying your favourite spirits.
Join us as we uncover the secrets of sustainable gin and explore the eco-conscious practices that go into its production. Discover how you can make a positive impact by making mindful choices in your selection of spirits.
Raise your glass to a more sustainable lifestyle and read on to learn how small changes in your gin choices can make a big difference for our planet. Together, we can toast to a greener future, one sip at a time.
Sustainable Gin: A History
Gin, renowned for its versatility and unique flavours, boasts a captivating history spanning centuries. Its origins trace back to the Middle Ages when the art of distillation flourished. However, it was during the 17th century in the Netherlands that gin, as we know it today, began to take shape.
Initially crafted for medicinal purposes, gin emerged through distilling malt wine with juniper berries, believed to possess therapeutic benefits. As trade routes expanded, gin found its way to England, where it gained immense popularity. The 18th-century “Gin Craze” witnessed an unprecedented rise in consumption, with a plethora of gin shops and distilleries emerging across the country.
Throughout history, gin has undergone various transformations. The 19th-century introduction of the Coffey still revolutionised production, yielding a smoother and more refined spirit. The invention of London Dry Gin further elevated its reputation with its characteristic dryness and crispness.
Did you know that ‘Gin and Tonic’ was a favourite drink during the British Empire? The quinine contained in Tonic is used to fight malaria!
Curious about gin’s environmental impact and the influence of sustainable practices on its future? Join us as we continue by looking at just that and raise a glass to a greener tomorrow.
Sustainable Gin: Environmental Impact
The production and consumption of gin have significant environmental implications. Throughout the supply chain, from ingredients sourcing to packaging and waste management, gin’s environmental footprint is a subject of concern. Gin production involves energy-intensive processes such as distillation, contributing to carbon emissions and energy consumption.
Did you know that the cultivation of botanicals used in gin production, such as juniper berries, can put pressure on ecosystems and biodiversity if not sustainably managed?
Packaging waste is another notable environmental consideration. The use of glass bottles and associated packaging materials contributes to resource depletion and waste accumulation. Furthermore, the water-intensive nature of distillation and cleaning processes raises water usage and conservation concerns.
The transportation of gin can have environmental consequences due to the emissions generated during shipping. International shipments, especially those that involve long distances, contribute to carbon dioxide emissions and air pollution.
Let’s continue to explore the environmental aspects of gin and take part in shaping a more environmentally conscious future for the industry.
Sustainable Gin: What To Look For
When exploring sustainable gin options, it’s important to consider the following factors to make eco-friendly choices. Opt for gins crafted with organically grown botanicals, avoiding the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
Additionally, look for distilleries that prioritise locally sourced ingredients, reducing carbon emissions from transportation. Moreover, seek out distilleries powered by renewable energy sources like wind or solar power to minimise environmental impact.
In addition to that, consider gins produced by distilleries implementing water-saving techniques and efficient water management systems, promoting water conservation. Another aspect to consider is choosing gins packaged in sustainable materials, such as recycled glass or eco-friendly packaging options.
The recent new explosion in gin drinking has been brought about by the introduction of small craft distilleries over the last 15 years.
Since these brands have all started in an age where environmental issues are more prevalent and understood, sustainability has, for many, been factored into their business models from inception. Read on to find out about three of our favourites!
Sustainable Gin: Some of Our Favourite Brands
York Gin
Founded by a group of friends in 2018, sustainability is at the heart of everything York Gin does. From the outset, their distillery has been powered by 100% green energy and they drive electric and hybrid vehicles.
Moves to reduce their carbon footprint include investing in Yorkshire-made bottles and ensuring our neutral grain spirit is made in Yorkshire from grain that’s grown on Yorkshire farms. The company is also a living wage employer and completely transparent when it comes to sustainability.
Shed 1
Launched in October 2016 by a husband and wife team, Shed 1 distillery creates and produces award-winning, classically distilled craft gin with a contemporary style.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything they do and the business is committed to Net Zero by 2050. The Gin is made using many sustainable measures, saving water, reducing impact and creating circularity when they can.
Shed 1 has won several sustainability awards and is continuously innovating when it comes to sustainability.
Secret Garden
Everything Secret Garden Distillery does is about Nature. From the way they grow their plants and hand harvest their botanicals to the way their Gins are packaged. For them sustainability isn’t just about less plastic and recycling, it’s about working hand in hand with nature. They have created an entire business that revolves around the health of the earth. Also, they use their own garden with no chemicals and everything is organic. The company also protect bees and all their packaging and labelling is sustainable!
Best of all, thanks to our friends over at Secret Garden Distillery, if you use the code GREEN10 at checkout you can take advantage of a 10% discount on all their sustainable gins!
Sustainable Gin: That’s a Wrap
Sustainable gin is more than just a trend—it’s a conscious choice that embraces the delicate balance between nature and our enjoyment of spirits. By supporting distilleries and brands that prioritise sustainable practices, we can contribute to a greener and more responsible future.
At Play It Green, we are committed to not only offering sustainable gin options but also promoting responsible consumption. We understand the importance of alcoholism support and encourage everyone to enjoy gin and other spirits in moderation. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, seek help from support networks and organizations dedicated to providing assistance and guidance.
Together, let’s raise our glasses to sustainable gin, mindful choices, and a better world for both nature and ourselves. Cheers to a greener future!
Play It Green receives no money for promoting any companies featured in our weekly tip – we do it because it’s the right thing to do!
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