Embracing Cans: A Step Closer To Sustainability

As both business owners and consumers, we’re always searching for sustainable ways to reduce our ecological footprint. A key part of that journey involves rethinking our packaging choices. When we select packaging for our products, we carefully consider the entire lifecycle—from manufacturing and transportation to recycling.

There has long been a belief that glass is synonymous with quality, especially in the world of wine. However, it’s time to rethink that perception. Wine packaged in cans can deliver the same high-quality taste and complexity as bottled wine, but with a significantly smaller environmental impact.

The Carbon Footprint of Glass vs. Cans

Glass bottles, due to their weight and fragility, contribute heavily to the carbon footprint of the entire supply chain. From production to shipping to recycling, glass requires more resources at every step. On the other hand, aluminum cans offer a lightweight, durable, and more sustainable alternative.

Aluminum cans are easier to recycle and require less energy to transport due to their lighter weight. This directly reduces greenhouse gas emissions across the board. By embracing cans for wine packaging, we can significantly reduce our reliance on resource-heavy materials like glass, making it a greener choice for both businesses and consumers [1].

Aluminum: A Highly Recyclable Solution

One of the greatest advantages of aluminum cans is their recyclability. Aluminum is one of the most efficiently recycled materials, requiring only 5% of the energy needed to produce new, or “primary,” aluminum. This drastically reduces the environmental impact compared to other forms of packaging.

The recycling rate for aluminum cans is also impressive, with a much higher percentage of cans being reused compared to glass or plastic containers. This means fewer cans end up in landfills, reducing the negative impact on ecosystems. When consumers participate in recycling programs, they help further minimize the environmental footprint of aluminum packaging [2].

Aluminum Cans: The Eco-Conscious Choice

Aluminum cans use fewer resources, are easier to recycle, emit fewer greenhouse gases during transportation, and help conserve water. These benefits, combined with their ability to reduce landfill waste, make them a powerful solution for environmentally-conscious consumers. This is why we made the decision to invest in our own Twin Monkeys canning machine, enabling us to can our beverages at our Warburton factory. By canning and participating actively in recycling efforts, we are contributing to a healthier and more sustainable planet [3].

Convenience Meets Sustainability

Aluminum cans aren’t just great for the environment—they also offer unmatched convenience. For glass-free events like festivals, picnics, or outdoor gatherings, cans are the perfect choice. They are lightweight, unbreakable, and easy to carry around. Cans are also ideal for single servings, providing just the right amount without the pressure to finish an entire bottle.

A Shift Towards the Future

Moving toward wine in cans isn’t just about making a sustainable choice—it’s about embracing the future of wine packaging. As the world becomes more eco-conscious, it’s clear that sustainable packaging options like aluminum cans are here to stay.

By choosing to can our beverages, we are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and actively supporting the shift towards a greener future. Together, we can make small, impactful changes that will help protect our planet for generations to come.

References:

1. Oregon Department of Environmental Quality – “Life Cycle Assessment of Beverage Packaging Options”
2. The Aluminum Association – “Aluminum Can Recycling”
3. International Aluminium Institute – “Aluminum: The Element of Sustainability”