Moray industry: How whisky is helping to save the planet
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Richard Lochhead visited Dalmunach Distillery on Friday to learn about the strides the Scotch Whisky is making to become more sustainable.
The industry was the first of its kind to launch a sector-wide Environmental Strategy in 2009.
Since then it has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by a third, improved water efficiency by 22%, and made a 75% reduction in waste to landfill.
Mr Lochhead said: "I was delighted to visit the fabulous Dalmunach distillery in Carron to hear from representatives of the Scotch Whisky Association and Chivas Brothers about the industry’s plan to move to net zero by 2040
"I was there in my roles of local MSP and also on behalf of the Scottish Government as Minister for Just Transition, Employment and Fair Work.
"We discussed the steps the industry is taking to reduce its carbon footprint to meet its 2040 target when it plans to no longer contribute towards climate change.
"As Minister for Just Transition, it’s my job to help ensure we manage the transition to net zero in a way that benefits everyone with new good, green jobs and by tackling inequalities and by treating everyone and every community fairly as we make that journey."
Friday's visit took place exactly 100 days before international leaders are set to gather in Glasgow for the UN Climate Change Conference.
Mr Lochhead added: "It was timely to hear about how one of our country’s and Moray’s biggest and most successful industries is adopting green technologies, while at the same time continuing to produce our world famous drams.
"There is a long way to go but the industry has made a terrific start to ensure it plays its role in saving our planet.
"We all have a role to play and it’s good to see our distilleries turning their attention to what they need to do."
Graeme Littlejohn, director of strategy for the Scotch Whisky Association, said: "The Scotch Whisky industry is proud of progress already make to drive down our environmental impact, but there is much more to do.
"Our new sustainability strategy commits us to go further and faster, and underlines the industry’s commitment to reach net-zero by 2040.
"It has been great to see such fantastic support throughout Scotland as distilleries and supply chain sites open their doors.
"We look forward to November’s COP26 conference.
"It will be a chance for the Scotch Whisky industry to showcase its ambition to tackle climate change, and to be a key player in the conversations around how business and government can work together in the race to zero."
Related article: Moray MP Douglas Ross visits Dalmunach distillery to discuss sustainable Scotch 100 days ahead of COP26
