Sustainability

At West Cork Distillers, we recognise our responsibility to address climate change as a unified community. We are at the forefront of driving eco-conscious, sustainable production within the alcohol industry, not only in West Cork but throughout Ireland. By leading the way, we hope to inspire other prominent businesses in the sector to join us in embracing sustainability. Here are some of the ways we integrate sustainable practices into our daily operations at the distillery:

Our Commitment to a Circular Economy

At West Cork Distillers ae are committed to our local community. In addition to utilising renewable electricity, we prioritise minimising waste production. Our by products are repurposed to supply animal feed for local farms and, more significantly, to generate biogas at Timoleague Agri Gen. We then purchase this green electricity back from the national grid. Timoleague also utilises our byproducts to create organic fertiliser, fostering the growth of crops, notably barley, a vital ingredient in our beloved whiskey.

Dedication to Sustainability

Sustainability is not an afterthought at West Cork Distillers; it is an integral part of our business. When John, Ger, and Denis initiated production in Unionhall, they recognised the importance of examining their carbon footprint and taking action to reduce it. Sustainable practices have been woven into the fabric of West Cork Distillers from the very beginning and continue to influence decision-making at all levels.

Driven by Community

Our ethical approaches and commitment to a circular way of doing business are embraced by every member of our distillery team. We often witness members of the community returning to work at West Cork Distillers, not only for career development but also because they recognise our strong ethos and fervent belief in effecting positive change for the collective good. We remain focused on our goals, and it is the West Cork Distillery team that propels progress forward.

Accountability Matters

We wholeheartedly stand by our beliefs and have taken bold actions to support them. As a result, our distillery has achieved a rare distinction in Ireland by earning the esteemed Butterfly Mark Certification from Positive Luxury. This prestigious accolade is reserved for businesses that demonstrate a significant commitment to addressing climate change through sustainable practices across all facets of their operations.

The evaluation process is stringent, overseen by a panel of sustainability experts. The Butterfly Mark is not merely a testament to eco-conscious production methods but also to fair labor practices and responsible sourcing of materials. A core tenet of this assessment is transparency, empowering consumers to make informed choices.

We take immense pride in our endeavors, and this recognition underscores our unwavering dedication to building a better world. It serves as a reaffirmation that our commitment to environmental responsibility is not a mere promise but an ongoing, purpose-driven voyage towards a sustainable future for our industry.

Aligned with our Mission

We have carefully chosen the UN Sustainable Development Goals that align with our values. Our primary focus is on promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, along with ensuring full and productive employment and decent work for all. We are also committed to responsible production and consumption continually working towards minimising our impact on the environment. Additionally, we are dedicated to building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable industrialisation, and fostering innovation, all of which contribute to a more sustainable future. By actively pursuing these goals, we aim to make a positive impact on the environment while producing our exceptional Irish whiskey.

To learn more about the Butterfly Mark, please visit positiveluxury.com.