Sustainability in Spirits: How Distillery of Modern Art is Leading the Way
Sustainability has become a significant focus in the spirits industry over the past several years. As consumer demand for eco-friendly practices grows, large producers are stepping up, investing in initiatives that reduce water waste, recycle resources, and minimize energy consumption. Not only are these practices better for the planet, but they also create long-term efficiencies that make good business sense.
At Distillery of Modern Art (DoMA), sustainability has been integral to our mission from the very beginning. Even during the planning stages, we prioritized eco-conscious practices to ensure our operations would have a positive impact on both our community and the environment. Here are some of the key sustainability initiatives we’ve implemented:
- Closed-Loop Water Recycling: We recycle all the water used for cooling in a closed-loop system, ensuring that no cooling water goes down the drain. Additionally, we repurpose this water to cool down our mash. This dual use heats the water naturally, reducing energy consumption for the next batch.
- Spent Grain Repurposing: Rather than discarding our spent grain, we partner with a local cattle farmer who uses it as feed. This not only minimizes waste but also supports our local agricultural ecosystem.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Sourcing raw materials like corn, rye, and barley close to home is another way we reduce our carbon footprint. By cutting down on transportation-related fossil fuel emissions, we’re able to support local farmers while staying true to our sustainability goals.
Looking ahead, we see even more potential for innovation in sustainable distilling. One exciting prospect is transforming our waste products into new, usable items. For instance, our spent grain, which is high in protein and nutrients, could be processed into ingredients for baked goods or other food products. Not only would this reduce waste, but it could also serve as a new revenue stream for DoMA.
The future of sustainable distilling is promising, with growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly and additive-free products driving change across the industry. We believe sustainability will remain a critical focus not only for distilleries but for the entire food and beverage sector. At DoMA, we’re proud to be part of this movement and are committed to continuing our efforts to innovate and improve in the years to come.
By integrating sustainability into every aspect of our operations, we’re crafting more than just spirits—we’re creating a legacy of environmental stewardship and community support. Cheers to a greener future!