This Brewing Facility is One of Only Three Breweries in the United States to Receive Zero Waste Certification

Wicked Weed Brewing Becomes 3rd Brewery In the United States to Earn Zero Waste Certification

Wicked Weed Brewing proudly declares its Candler, North Carolina-based main production brewery as the recipient of GOLD certification under the esteemed TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) rating system. Administered by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), TRUE serves as a benchmark for facilities to gauge, enhance, and commend zero waste performance, promoting sustainable waste management practices that yield favorable environmental, health, and economic outcomes.

Andrew Dagnan, Director of Safety & Sustainability at Wicked Weed, expressed, “Sustainability has been ingrained in Wicked Weed’s identity since our inception in 2012, and we’re thrilled that this certification acknowledges our dedication to brewing exceptional beer while upholding a zero waste ethos. We’re more committed than ever to making a positive impact on our communities and the environment.”

Achieving this distinction involved diverting an impressive 99.3% of waste away from landfills in 2023, with over 18 million lbs. of materials finding alternative destinations. Noteworthy initiatives include recycling over 100 tons of material, composting over 11,000 lbs., and repurposing over 6,000 tons of spent grain as cattle feed. Moreover, the brewery has embraced eco-conscious practices such as transitioning to reusable straps for local keg shipments, adopting 100% recyclable packaging for online merchandise, and implementing QR code-based online systems to replace paper forms and inspection sheets.

Dagnan further highlights Wicked Weed’s proactive approach, including conducting four successful zero-waste audits in 2023 and collaborating with internal sustainability teams and external partners like Waste Reduction Partners (WRP) to enhance recycling, waste, and compost collection efforts. Looking ahead, Wicked Weed aims to standardize How2Recycle labeling on all consumer-facing products by 2025, setting a precedent as the first craft brewery to do so and facilitating consumer recycling comprehension through partnerships with organizations like CIRT.

Peter Templeton, president and CEO of GBCI, underscores the significance of Wicked Weed’s TRUE certification in advancing sustainability and waste reduction objectives. He emphasizes that effective waste management strategies are pivotal for both public and environmental welfare.

Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) stands as a global authority on sustainability and health certification, administering project certifications and professional credentials within various green building rating systems, including LEED and TRUE certification for zero waste, among others.

Wicked Weed Brewing, established in 2012 and headquartered in Asheville, North Carolina, has garnered acclaim for its innovative brews. Operating a 50-barrel production brewery, a sour beer production facility, and four retail locations, the brewery’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations and community engagement initiatives.

For more information about Wicked Weed Brewing, visit WickedWeedBrewing.com.