This article is regularly updated with the latest sustainability developments across the sector.
MARCH
Stonegate removes more than 90,000 single use bottles
Stonegate Group has removed more than 90,000 single use bottles from its waste stream as part of a wider circular economy programme across its estate.
The initiative includes trials of refillable spirits vessels at Slug & Lettuce sites and an expanding bottle reuse scheme across more than 100 venues.
The company also reported zero waste to landfill, an 18% reduction in energy use since 2023 and a 14% fall in water consumption since FY21.
Chief executive David McDowall said: “I’m really pleased with the progress we are making on our sustainability journey. Working in partnership with our suppliers allows us to make genuine progress while operating more efficiently.”
St Austell Brewery hits 100% food waste diversion across managed pubs
St Austell Brewery has confirmed that 100% of food waste from its 45 managed pubs is now diverted from general waste into anaerobic digestion or redistributed through food sharing app Olio.
The milestone follows the launch of its Operation Segregation initiative in 2025, which introduced improved waste sorting, staff training and clearer site signage.
The programme has helped deliver a 16% drop in general waste and a 49% reduction in total waste since 2023.
Sustainability manager Emily Coon said: “Operation Segregation is all about cutting waste at the source and ensuring valuable materials don’t end up where they shouldn’t.”
FEBRUARY
Beartown Brewery invests in refurbished barrels to cut costs and carbon
Cheshire based craft brewer Beartown Brewery has invested in 200 refurbished plastic beer barrels as part of efforts to cut costs and reduce its environmental impact.
The barrels were acquired from a brewery that had ceased trading and refurbished before being added to Beartown’s existing fleet. The brewer estimates the move will avoid around £10,000 a year in keg rental costs while the lighter barrels could also help reduce fuel loads on regional deliveries.
A spokesperson for Beartown said the move was a practical step for the business, adding: “Sustainability isn’t something we talk about lightly. It’s about taking real, measurable steps that improve how we operate day to day.”