Alcoholic Beverage (AlcoBev) industry

CCUS in the Alcoholic Beverage (AlcoBev) industry primarily relates to the management and utilization of CO₂ produced during the fermentation process. In the production of beer, wine, spirits, and other alcoholic beverages, yeast ferments sugars to produce alcohol and CO₂. The carbon capture, utilization, and storage in this context involve capturing the emitted CO₂ and repurposing it for other applications or storing it.

Capture and Utilization:

During fermentation, CO₂ is emitted which can be captured through gas scrubbers or fermentation caps that channel the gas into storage or treatment units. The captured CO₂ can be used in various applications, such as carbonation in soft drinks and beers, chilling and freezing, pH control, or inerting where CO₂ is used to displace oxygen to prevent the degradation of a product. Another innovative application is using CO₂ to grow algae that can be used as feedstock for biofuels or in wastewater treatment.
Innovative start-ups are also emerging in the AlcoBev industry, utilizing captured CO₂ for creating value-added products. For example, some companies are transforming CO₂ into a key ingredient for making beverages or even creating diamonds from beer-based CO₂ emissions.

Reduction in CO₂ Emissions: The most evident benefit is a decrease in carbon emissions. The process of fermentation produces a significant amount of CO₂, which if released into the atmosphere contributes to global warming. By capturing and storing or utilizing this CO₂, breweries, wineries, and distilleries can reduce their carbon footprint.
Cost Savings and Revenue Generation: Captured CO₂ can be repurposed for in-house use such as carbonation in beverages, saving costs on purchasing CO₂. In addition, businesses can also sell excess CO₂ to other industries, providing an additional revenue stream.
Energy Efficiency: Some businesses are exploring ways to use the captured CO₂ for in-house energy generation, enhancing the overall energy efficiency of the operations.
Sustainable Branding: Implementing CCUS can be a key part of a company's sustainability efforts, appealing to eco-conscious consumers and potentially boosting brand image and market share.