NC GreenTravel Initiative

BOB recently hit the road for an event he’d been working on with the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild. During the event, hosted at the Ardagh Group glass manufacturing facility in Wilson, N.C., he met some amazing people who are making differences in their communities. One of those people is Wendy Worley, Recycling and Materials Management Section Chief for the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.

Wendy shared details with BOB about an inspiring program brewers can join — the NC GreenTravel Initiative. This outreach program of the North Carolina Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service recognizes sustainable breweries and other travel-oriented businesses for their environmental stewardship. The no-cost, non-regulatory recognition program awards breweries with sustainability certificates, promotional decals, and free listings on the NC GreenTravel website and map.

Recycling and sustainability panel at Ardagh Group Wilson NC glass facility with BOB, Wendy Worley, and industry representatives
Photo taken during the Sustainable Brewing & Packaging Event at Ardagh Group’s glass manufacturing facility in Wilson, N.C. Pictured from left to right: John T. Shaddox (Ardagh Group), Wendy Worley (North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality), Bill Clark (Strategic Materials), and Chad Beane (Moore County Public Works).

“Our office works with companies across the state to expand the use of sustainable practices and recognize leaders in environmental stewardship,” said Worley. “Bull City Burger and Brewery of Durham, a member of the NC GreenTravel Initiative, and other craft brewers in attendance at the Ardagh Group event make a positive impact on North Carolina’s environment and economy.”

Achieving one of the state’s highest NC GreenTravel rankings, Bull City Burger and Brewery installed energy-efficient lighting and equipment, reduced waste through recycling and composting food waste, and provides spent grain as animal feed — just a few of its many environmental accomplishments.

“North Carolina craft brewers are leaders in sustainable business practices,” Worley added. “I applaud the industry for their environmental commitment and positive impact on North Carolina’s local economy.”

Breweries interested in joining the NC GreenTravel Initiative can apply for recognition as sustainable destinations by visiting www.ncgreentravel.org and downloading a free application. Applicants can also receive environmental technical assistance at no cost.

Every glass bottle manufactured by Ardagh Group is made from 100% natural, sustainable raw materials — recycled glass, limestone, soda ash, and silica sand. Glass is infinitely recyclable without loss of quality or purity, and its closed-loop recycling system creates no additional waste or by-products.

BOB had a wonderful time at the event and enjoyed some great food and craft beer at the Brewers Social at 217 Brew Works. If you didn’t get a chance to attend this year, look for similar events coming soon to your area. And if you met with BOB at the event, don’t forget to use your 10% off coupon on your next pallet of glass beer bottles.

Cheers!
BOB

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