Here’s another ‘whisky/bourbon’ project that’s good for the environment and good for business.
Ever wondered what happens to the leftover ‘mash’ after a delicious batch of bourbon is distilled? Traditionally, it’s been treated as waste, but Kanadevia INOVA, a global green-tech leader located in Zurich, Switzerland, has a vision that’s turning this “waste” into a sustainable success story!
Let’s head to Boston, Kentucky (yes, you read that right!), where Kanadevia INOVA is working its magic on distillery stillage.
For those unfamiliar, stillage is the leftover grain mixture after the alcohol is extracted during the whisky or bourbon-making process. It’s a significant byproduct, and historically, it hasn’t been the most environmentally friendly disposal story. But Kanadevia INOVA saw an opportunity to transform this leftover mash into something truly remarkable.
Here’s What They Are Doing
Kanadevia INOVA utilises proprietary in-house technology to convert distillery stillage into a renewable natural gas (RNG), also known as biomethane. Think of it as clean-burning fuel made from what was once considered waste! This RNG is then used to power the distillery itself, creating a beautiful closed-loop system. The distillery produces spirits, generates “waste,” that waste is transformed into clean fuel, and that fuel powers the distillery – a sustainable cycle that’s good for business and better for the environment!
How Do They Do That?
All that leftover “waste” gets broken down by friendly bacteria in giant vats. This process creates biogas, which then gets cleaned up and transformed into RNG. This RNG is basically like natural gas, but better for the environment than fossil natural gas. Why? Because it captures methane from waste and converts it into carbon dioxide and water with a lower global warming potential than methane.
Take A Look At Their Fermenter
Design Factory GmbH – producer of our ‘Antarctica. A Life Changing Experience‘ documentary, were able to accompany the expansion construction with 3D scans of some of the plant components and were granted a rare insight into one of the fermenters, which they have permission to share. Take a look on their website below – there is an English version – and move around the 3D capture to get a feel for the extent and scale of this biogas plant.
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But wait, the process doesn’t just stop at clean fuel. Kanadevia INOVA’s clever tech also creates a bonus – a carbon-negative fertiliser! The leftover stillage gets a second life, not just as fuel, but also as a way to nourish crops in a sustainable way. This innovative approach reduces waste, creates clean energy, and in addition contributes to a more sustainable agricultural system – a triple win!
Their project in Kentucky is a shining example of how green technology can be a game-changer. It not only demonstrates a practical application for waste reduction but also inspires creativity and innovation within the distilling industry.
So next time you raise a glass of your favourite Kentucky bourbon, remember – that delicious drink might just be a part of a much bigger sustainable story!
Conclusions
The Food and Beverage market we know is very resource intense – especially with regards to energy, water and waste, so identifying ways of reducing usage will be welcomed. While this industry, worldwide is already experiencing disruptions from changes to our climate – temperature, precipitation pattern changes and the extreme weather events we are experiencing – it’s a major contributor to climate change, representing about a third of our total greenhouse gas emissions. As populations grow, the situation is a constant battle and balancing act.
About Kanadevia INOVA: Kanadevia Inova is a cutting-edge green technology company focused on developing innovative solutions for sustainable energy and resource management, turning waste into wealth. They specialise in transforming organic waste into valuable resources like renewable natural gas (RNG) and high-quality fertilisers. Their approach not only reduces environmental impact but also contributes to a more sustainable future for the planet. Check out the full story HERE