By collecting gas, the Prazdroj and Gambrinus breweries save at least 280 tonnes of CO2 yearly from fossil resources

„CO₂ is the result of fermentation, which is part of the beer–making process. Part of it naturally dissolves into the beer and beer–makers know this characteristic as rigour. However, excess CO₂ escapes into the atmosphere. Now we are able to use the reproduced gas in a natural way to ensure a safe atmosphere for the bottling and transfer of beer. That is why we collect excess CO2 from fermentation and we liquefy it for further use in the production process,“ says Jan Šik, Manager of Sustainable Development at Plzeňský Prazdroj.

This new system of collecting CO₂ contributed to the fact that Plzeňský Prazdroj received a certificate from EKO–KOM, a.s. for decreasing emissions. The certificate ensures the fulfilment of responsibilities regarding the collection of CO₂ and the recycling of packaging, and it supports a decrease in the influence of waste on the environment from the drink–producing industry.

The principle of the equipment is based on connecting CO₂ emitters with a collective part, a reduction station and with an accumulation container, which will soften the blows, and to a software safety protecting against overcharge during the collection of CO₂ from cylindrical tanks. Technicians further installed two accumulation, heat–isolated pressure reservoirs which are used as reservoirs for liquid CO2. Thanks to the limited purchase of CO₂, we will save on trips, which tens of trucks had to make to transport the gas.

„The unique gas will go to a pipeline, it will liquefy and right after that it will turn into gas again and will be once again used for production. That is why we are able to collect a maximum amount of CO₂, which used to escape into the air during the fermentation process and beer production. In the last six months, we have not had to buy any CO₂. It is evident that we care about the environment and the six million crown investment will be returned over the next two years,“ Jan Šik said, summarising the results of the project.

Notes to editors:

• With a total sale of close to 9.9 million hectolitres in the 2010 calendar year (including licensed production abroad) and with exports to more than 50 countries, Plzeňský Prazdroj is the biggest producer of beer in the region and the biggest exporter of Czech beer.
• 10 Corporate Responsibility priorities of Plzeňský Prazdroj: 1. Promotion of responsible alcohol consumption, 2. Decrease water consumption, 3. Lower energy consumption and level of emissions, 4. Use of recycled or returned packaging material, 5. Heading towards production with no waste, 6. Cooperation with partners who share our values, 7. Respect of human rights, 8. Contribution to decreasing HIV/AIDS, 9. Support for regional development and 10. Transparent communication and reporting of results.
• Plzeňský Prazdroj received a  prize of the Regional Hetman for Corporate Responsibility 2011 which is awarded by the hetman of the Moravian-Slesian Region and the Chairman of the Council for Quality of Czech Republic. In 2010, Business for the Society awarded Plzeňský Prazdroj a special award for a long-term contribution to the development of corporate responsibility in Czech Republic.
• During the financial year ending March 31st, 2011, Plzeňský Prazdroj invested in the development of energy from renewable resources a total of 103.65 million Czech crowns (6.02 million USD). Directly, it employs more than 2,300 people and indirectly it creates employment for about 33,600 positions.
• Plzeňský Prazdroj, a. s., is a member of the SABMiller PLC Company. Pilsner Urquell is an international flagship of SABMiller brands.
• SABMiller PLC is one of the biggest beer companies in the world, with activities and distribution in more than 60 countries on six continents.
• For its responsible conduct towards future generations, Plzeňský Prazdroj has been repeatedly receiving the highest honours of all SABMiller breweries.

Contact:
Jiří Mareček
Manager external communication
Plzeňský Prazdroj
+420 724 617 219

Plzeň