The fundamental components of beer have remained unchanged for thousands of years: water, yeast, barley, and hops. However, the world’s climate is undergoing significant shifts, and this is not going unnoticed by brewers. Breweries are becoming more environmentally conscious and taking steps towards sustainability. One such example is Boulevard Brewery in Kansas City, Missouri.

Craig Pijanowski, the head brewer at Boulevard, spoke about the various ways in which climate change affects their brewing process. While many people view beer as a simple commodity packed neatly in bottles, Pijanowski emphasized that it is an agricultural product and is therefore susceptible to the effects of global warming.

Although the basic ingredients for brewing beer have not changed, the regions where barley and hops thrive have been impacted by climate change. The growing area for barley, for instance, is shifting towards Canada. A study conducted by Climate Central found that more profitable crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to replace malted barley. Drought conditions also affect the starch suitability for brewing.

Hops, on the other hand, are becoming increasingly difficult to grow. These plants contribute significantly to the aroma and flavor of beer. Over 70% of American-grown hops come from Washington State, an area that is warming at a rate of 0.4 degrees Fahrenheit per decade. Rising temperatures in the Northwest reduce the snowpack required for irrigation, and hops are a sensitive plant that is intolerant of drastic changes in temperature and moisture.

Pijanowski explained that there are limited suitable locations for growing hops outside of the Pacific Northwest. The plant requires a specific environment, such as the high desert found in Yakima Valley, Washington, or regions in Germany, Australia, and New Zealand.

To ensure the quality of their beer, breweries across the United States have signed the Brewery Climate Declaration. This commitment underscores their dedication to sustainable practices and finding environmentally friendly solutions to protect their products. For Boulevard Brewery, being green is a part of their culture. They were ahead of the curve with initiatives like installing one of the first electric car charging stations in the area, going solar, practicing zero-landfill, and implementing green roofs for rainwater management.

Boulevard Brewery also collaborates with local farmers to manage their brewing waste. Spent grain, which constitutes 85% of brewing waste, is repurposed on Nunemaker-Ross Farms in Lawrence, Kansas, only 40 minutes away from the brewery. Pat Ross, the farmer, works hand-in-hand with Boulevard to recycle and reuse spent grain. This high-protein byproduct is blended with corn, corn silage, and hay to create optimal feed for his cows. Ross humorously remarked that his cattle are probably eating a better diet than he or the average person, thanks to the spent grain, which contains an unknown level of alcohol.

The collaboration between Boulevard Brewery and local farmers like Pat Ross ensures that the brewing process remains sustainable while reducing carbon footprints. From the spent grain, some of the end products find their way back to Kansas City, such as at the Bichelmeyer meat company, where beer lovers can enjoy a steak paired with one of Boulevard’s beers.

The story of Boulevard Brewery and its dedication to environmental responsibility and collaboration showcases the intricate connections between beer production, the environment, and local communities. By recognizing and adapting to the effects of climate change, breweries like Boulevard are making a significant impact on the future of the beloved beverage we all enjoy.

Diving Into the Coexistence of Beer and Beef: A Climate Connection

Picture this: a cold, crisp evening. You sit down for a delightful meal, relishing a juicy steak paired with a refreshing pint of beer. Little do you know, this harmonious combination actually shares a deep connection rooted in weather and climate. Join us as we explore the captivating story of how a glass of beer and a cut of beef are intricately intertwined through a closed environmental loop.

Meet Adam Pijanowski, a passionate brewmaster at Boulevard Brewing Company. Located just a stone’s throw away from Bichelmeyer Meats, the perfect harmony between these two establishments begins to unfold. Pijanowski reveals, “If you go to the store and you buy a steak at Bichelmeyer and a Boulevard Pale Ale, it’s like a closed environmental loop.”

But how exactly does this closed environmental loop work? Let’s connect the dots.

Both the brewing process and cattle farming are profoundly influenced by weather and climate. Beer brewing requires the perfect balance of temperature, humidity, and sunlight during each stage. Meticulous attention to these factors ensures that the yeast, malt, and hops interact harmoniously, producing a delightful beer.

Similarly, cattle farming heavily relies on climatic conditions for the well-being and growth of the animals. From pasture management to ensuring optimal grazing conditions, farmers diligently monitor weather patterns to maintain a healthy herd.

However, the connection between beer and beef doesn’t end here. The journey continues as we delve into the environmental impact of transportation. With Boulevard Brewing Company and Bichelmeyer Meats located in close proximity, the carbon emissions associated with transporting goods are significantly reduced.

Pijanowski emphasizes the collective responsibility we all share. As parents, witnessing the ever-worsening state of the world, it becomes imperative to take action. Climate change is a real and pressing issue, demanding our involvement.

From a glass of beer to a cut of beef, we are reminded of the intricate web of connections that exist within our daily lives. Weather and climate affect not only our immediate enjoyment but also the entire cycle of production and consumption. A simple choice, like buying local and supporting environmentally conscious businesses, can contribute to positive change.

So, as you savor that steak and sip on your favorite beer, take a moment to appreciate the closed environmental loop cycling in the background. Let this be a constant reminder of the power we hold as individuals to mitigate climate change and create a sustainable future for generations to come.

In the grand tapestry of life, even the simplest choices can make a difference. Cheers to a better world, one pint and steak at a time!