The project will see the installation of a new heat recovery system at Britvic’s Becton site, cutting emissions by an estimated 1,200 tonnes annually. The investment was part funded by a £4.4m government grant from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Nigel Paine, supply chain director, said: “At our Beckton site we produce 2,000 drinks every minute. We are constantly looking at ways to improve the way we create these products and I’m delighted that, as well as our own funds, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero will be supporting us too.
Reducing carbon footprint
“It means we can continue to supply the nation with great tasting drinks, while reducing our carbon footprint.”
The new heat recovery system will see the soft drink manufacturer switching its heating from natural gas boilers to carbon free heat extractors. The system takes waste heat recovered from existing systems, increase the temperature and redistribute it around the site using a new low temperature hot water network, replacing our carbon intensive steam system.
This will decarbonise 50% of the site’s heat demand by shifting its heat source away from fossil fuels. Work on the project is expected to start at the end of 2023.
Scope 1 & 2 emissions
Director of sustainable business at Britvic Sarah Webster added: “This major investment represents a significant milestone in our journey to reduce our scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions in service of our science-based targets, and our Healthier People Healthier Planet sustainability strategy.
“The support from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has been integral to making this happen and it re-enforces our view that collaboration and partnership is critical to developing long-lasting meaningful solutions to protect the planet.”
Meanwhile, Gen Z, maximising health and energy drinks were the key trends driving innovation and new product development in the soft drinks category, according to Britvic.