Briess receives Business Friend of the Environment Award

Briess Malt & Ingredients Co. has been named a 2018 Business Friend of the Environment by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC.)

The award recognizes companies that demonstrate an innovative approach to environmental protection, and that go above and beyond regulatory compliance.

Briess is one of nine businesses to receive this recognition.

“These companies have shown that Wisconsin’s business community is committed to sustainability efforts and the future of our state,” said Lucas Vebber, WMC General Counsel and Director of Environmental & Energy Policy in a press release.

Each of the winners demonstrated that sound environmental practices are not only good for Wisconsin’s environment and its economy, but they also serve as important examples for the industry, according to the WMC.

Briess received the recognition for its Seed to Specialty sustainability program, which focuses on the environment, communities and people from seed to finished product.

“We laid the foundation for the Briess Seed to Specialty Sustainability Program about five years ago with several strategic supply chain acquisitions,” Briess President Ryan O’Toole stated. “The acquisitions secured a consistent source of barley that also meets our quality and environmental expectations.”

By consolidating the bulk of Briess barley production in a unique barley growing region, Briess sources barley that is being produced and transported with less environmental impact. Other environmental initiatives undertaken by Briess include centralized warehousing to lessen transportation needs, turning waste streams into compost and energy, and installing energy efficient lighting, heat recovery systems, and energy control devices throughout plants.

“As an ag-centric business dedicated to natural processes and products, Briess believes it is our inherent responsibility to be a good steward of resources,” O’Toole added.