San Diego Breweries Pioneer Recycled Water for Beer
Introduction
With countless breweries operating in the United States, standing out requires innovation. San Diego’s breweries have taken a bold step towards sustainability by experimenting with recycled water in beer production.
Stone Brewing’s Full Circle Pale Ale
Stone Brewing created Full Circle Pale Ale, a beer brewed using highly purified wastewater. The water underwent rigorous treatment to ensure its safety and quality, surpassing the purity levels of tap water. Despite some initial skepticism, the beer’s taste and quality proved indistinguishable from beers made with traditional water sources.
Ballast Point’s Padre Dam Pilsner
Ballast Point joined the recycled water movement with its Padre Dam Pilsner. This beer utilized water from a different recycling facility, demonstrating the versatility of recycled water in brewing.
Pure Water Program and Recycled Water Use
San Diego’s Pure Water program aims to increase the city’s reliance on recycled water, with a goal of providing one-third of the city’s water supply by 2035. The program has already purified millions of gallons of wastewater for irrigation, manufacturing, and other non-potable uses.
Safety and Quality of Recycled Water
Concerns about the safety of recycled water are understandable, but the water used in Stone and Ballast Point’s beers underwent extensive purification and disinfection processes. The breweries ensured that the water met or exceeded drinking water standards.
Environmental Implications
The use of recycled water in beer brewing has significant environmental benefits. It reduces the strain on freshwater resources, particularly in drought-prone areas like Southern California. By reusing wastewater, breweries can contribute to water conservation and promote sustainability.
Larger Water Recycling Facilities
San Diego plans to construct larger water purification facilities to expand the use of recycled water. By 2021, recycled water is expected to enter the public water system, benefiting not only breweries but also the entire city.
Orange County’s Water Recycling System
Orange County, California, has been a pioneer in water recycling, implementing a public consumption system in 2008. The system recycles millions of gallons of wastewater daily, mixing it into groundwater to supplement the county’s water supply.
The Future of Recycled Water in Brewing
While Stone Brewing does not plan to produce additional recycled water beers, the use of recycled water in brewing is likely to increase. As the Pure Water program expands and more water recycling facilities come online, breweries will have greater access to this sustainable resource.
Conclusion
San Diego breweries have showcased the potential of recycled water in beer production, demonstrating its safety, quality, and environmental benefits. The Pure Water program and other water recycling initiatives are paving the way for a more sustainable future, where recycled water plays a vital role in meeting our water needs and supporting innovative industries like brewing.
