Experts warn that increasing droughts and rising temperatures due to human-induced climate change could substantially reduce barley yields—a key ingredient in beer. According to the World Wildlife Fund, the beer supply in the United States alone could decline by 20% by the end of the century if these trends continue.
In response to this looming threat, Heineken has partnered with French agricultural cooperative Vivescia to promote regenerative farming practices for barley cultivation. This large-scale project focuses on enhancing soil health, conserving water, and increasing biodiversity to make barley farming more resilient to climate change.
The initiative has already seen its first successful harvest of barley grown using these sustainable methods. Currently involving around 200 farms, Heineken plans to expand the program to over 1,000 farms by 2026. By adopting regenerative agriculture, the company aims to reduce its agricultural carbon emissions by 30% by 2030, contributing to its broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions across its entire value chain by 2040.
"Climate change is impacting the very resources we depend on to brew our beers," said Hervé Le Faou, Chief Procurement Officer at Heineken. "By investing in regenerative agriculture, we're not only working to secure the future supply of barley but also supporting farmers in building more sustainable and resilient practices."
The partnership with Vivescia is designed to lower financial and technical barriers for farmers transitioning to sustainable methods. It provides them with resources and guidance to implement practices that improve soil fertility, enhance water retention, and promote biodiversity.
Christophe Perraud, CEO of Vivescia, emphasized the importance of collective action: "The transition to sustainable agriculture must happen at every farm level. Our collaboration with Heineken demonstrates that it's possible to implement large-scale changes that benefit both the environment and the farming community."
This proactive approach addresses the urgent need to adapt agricultural practices in the face of climate change. By focusing on regenerative farming, Heineken and Vivescia are working to ensure a stable barley supply, thereby safeguarding the beer industry against future disruptions.
Their efforts also set an example for other companies in the beverage sector to take meaningful action towards sustainability. As global temperatures continue to rise, such initiatives could play a crucial role in mitigating the adverse effects on essential crops and maintaining the availability of products that consumers enjoy worldwide.
