The Scotch whisky industry has committed itself to an environmental strategy that will see whisky producers cut their use of fossil fuels by 80% over the next 40 years.
The industry claim that by 2050, it will represent an annual saving of more than 750,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide, which is the equivalent of taking more than 235,000 cars off Scotland's roads.
The Scotch Whisky Association said cutting fossil fuel use was one of a number of industry-wide targets, including a significant reduction in the weight of packaging, a commitment to source whisky casks from sustainable oak forests, and to maintain the highest standards of water use and discharge management.
Fossil fuel use will be reduced by improving operational efficiency and investment in new technology, with an emphasis on renewable energy sources.
Gavin Hewitt, chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association said the pledge was a bold move by distillers which demonstrated their commitment to securing Scotch whisky's future, and addressing environmental and economic issues.
Scottish Environment Secretary, Richard Lochhead praised Scotland's whisky producers for committing to an industry-wide strategy. He said, "The future of Scotland's iconic whisky industry relies on our equally iconic and prestigious environment and the industry is ahead of the game with this pioneering strategy. If delivered fully, these commitments will be of real benefit to our environment."
Richard Dixon, director of environmental group WWF Scotland, also welcomed the strategy. He commented, "Scotch whisky is world renowned and we welcome plans to reduce the environmental footprint of each and every dram. We particularly welcome the fact that they have set themselves targets to reduce their impact."
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