It’s Zero Waste Week, and if you're into saving the planet, then you’re probably already familiar with the term “zero waste.” But, when it comes to the spirits industry, that phrase can take on a whole new meaning. Sustainability in distilling isn’t always just about reducing plastic - though that's part of it - it’s about rethinking the entire process from grain to glass. And guess what? Some of Australia’s best distilleries are leading the charge, pushing boundaries, and making a real difference.
In a world that’s increasingly focused on environmental impacts, the way our favourite spirits are made should matter to all of us. The distilling industry is resource-intensive, consumes large amounts of water, energy, and ingredients. But sustainable distilling practices have a ripple effect - lowering carbon emissions, reducing waste, and supporting local ecosystems. Not to mention, a greener approach often means better quality products! because hey, good spirits start with good ingredients. So if you’re looking to make eco-conscious choices without sacrificing your taste buds, here are seven Aussie distilleries leading the zero-waste production charge, that you should be pouring into your glass.
Kilderkin Distillery
Kilderkin Distillery doesn’t shy away from their eco-goals—even if they’re still on the journey. They’ve already nailed down a few key practices, like sourcing local ingredients, which cuts down on those pesky carbon emissions from transport. Their gin botanicals, for instance, are grown right in Ballarat. A clever water-saving system also recycles thousands of litres of water each month, and solar panels have been installed to produce energy with an eye toward future storage. But perhaps the most impressive part? Kilderkin’s waste grains and botanicals find new life in gin-scented candles, juniper-infused chocolate, and as compost for local gardeners. Now that’s a tasty solution to waste!
Lord Byron Distillery
Lord Byron Distillery takes the zero-waste game seriously, turning what could be discarded into valuable resources. Powered entirely by renewable energy, they use the by-products of their distilling process to create liquid fertilisers and feed additives for local farmers. Talk about a full-circle approach! Located in Byron Bay, they harness the region's natural resources like rainwater and molasses from nearby sugar mills. Their commitment to local ingredients doesn’t just support farmers - it reduces the carbon footprint tied to sourcing far-flung ingredients. Sustainability isn't just a buzzword here; it’s a fundamental part of the Lord Byron philosophy.
The Great Southern Distilling Co.
With a 50-year strategic plan in place, Great Southern Distilling Co. is playing the long game when it comes to sustainability. Their goal of becoming completely carbon-neutral by 2025 is backed up by serious actions. Think 85kw of solar power, innovative grain malting technology that saves on water and energy, and a localised packaging facility that cuts down on transport emissions. Even their distillery waste has been put to good use, with spent grains feeding local livestock and distillation by-products being turned into premium garden mulch. Their commitment is clear - sustainability isn't just an option; it's the future.
Damaged Goods Distilling
Damaged Goods Distilling has a unique spin on the zero-waste trend, focusing on repurposing food waste to make high-quality spirits. They take produce that doesn’t meet retail standards and transform it into something magical, creating spirits that are full of flavour and innovation. Their focus isn’t on creating the same old thing, but instead on using waste to push boundaries and develop new, exciting taste profiles. It’s a zero-waste operation that’s as close as you can get, proving that imperfection can still result in perfection - one sip at a time.
Peninsula Distilling
Peninsula Distilling may be small, but their ambition is massive. With a zero-waste policy already in place, they repurpose waste from their gin and vodka production as feed for local farmers. As they ramp up to full production, they’re looking to run entirely on renewable energy. This isn’t just a nice-to-have—this distillery is grounded in the Moreton Bay community, with plans to grow their eco-friendly footprint nationwide. Local pride and sustainability go hand in hand here, making it the kind of place you can feel good about supporting, one small batch at a time.
Bathurst Grange Distillery
Bathurst Grange Distillery blends history with sustainability on its heritage-listed farm. Their commitment to zero-waste practices is intertwined with their care for the land that surrounds them. Leftover grains feed the farm’s resident sheep, and solar power keeps the distillery running for up to 12 hours a day. It’s not just the eco-practices that make Bathurst Grange stand out, though. It’s the connection to the land, the local farmers, and the community, all coming together to create a spirit that’s as rich in history as it is in taste.
Natural Distilling Co
Sustainability at Natural Distilling Co. extends far beyond the liquid in the bottle. Known for incorporating hemp - a crop famous for its low environmental impact - into their spirits, they’ve also nailed the packaging side of things. Biodegradable packaging, compostable shipping labels, and fully recyclable bottles mean that even after you’ve enjoyed your drink, the planet isn’t paying the price. Founder Rhys and his team have spent time developing packaging that protects both the product and the environment, making every aspect of their operation a study in eco-conscious innovation.
The rise of zero-waste distilling highlights how sustainability is becoming a central part of the spirits industry’s future. These Aussie distilleries are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, not because it’s trendy, but because they genuinely believe in creating quality products that respect both the craft and the planet. They’re proving that it’s possible to produce exceptional spirits while keeping sustainability at the core.
For those looking to enjoy a drink with a clearer conscience, these distilleries offer an opportunity to support innovative practices that prioritise both taste and eco-friendly processes. It’s not about rejecting other distilleries, but about celebrating the ones pushing boundaries and making strides towards a greener, zero-waste future. If you care about what’s in your glass and how it’s made, these distilleries stand out for all the right reasons.