Silver Certification from the Colorado Green Business Network

At Breckenridge Brewery, we’re proud to share that we have continued our certification at the Silver level with the Colorado Green Business Network (CGBN), a program that recognizes and supports businesses committed to operational sustainability.

What is the Colorado Green Business Network?

The CGBN is a voluntary program designed to help organizations improve their environmental performance. It provides resources, connections, and recognition for sustainability efforts at every level. Businesses can earn recognition in three tiers:

• Bronze: For organizations beginning their sustainability journey.
• Silver: For those integrating sustainability into multiple aspects of operations.
• Gold: For leaders implementing large-scale changes that promote sustainability and equity.

Our Path to Silver

Breckenridge Brewery has deep roots in Colorado’s sustainability efforts, including our participation in the Environmental Leadership Program, the predecessor to CGBN. Since relocating to 2990 Brewery Lane in 2015, we’ve made sustainability a core part of our operations. Here are a few of the initiatives that helped us achieve Silver status:

• Spent Grain Repurposing
  We have a 99% waste diversion rate, partially from providing spent grain to local farmers as a nutritious food supplement for livestock.
• Solar Power InstallationIn 2020, we installed 792 solar panels (433,280 kWhs/year), which now supply 20% of our production electricity needs.
• Energy-Efficient Airflow
  Our brew house features a Big Ass Fan, which efficiently circulates air without relying on multiple smaller fans.
• Steam Recovery System
  We use a vapor condenser to capture steam from our brew kettle, converting it into reusable water and saving energy for our brewery operations.
• Local Partnerships
• We partner with local organizations to give back to our community. From an innovative beer using recycled water from South Platte Renew’s direct potable reuse pilot system to hosting local river cleanups with the non-profit Protect Our Rivers, we strive to keep enhance our community’s education and participation in environmental efforts.

Looking Ahead

Sustainability is a journey, and we’re proud to be moving forward with purpose. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to protecting our environment, supporting our community, and crafting great beer.

Here’s to good beer, good memories, and a greener future—cheers!