While the quest for the perfect drop continues in breweries and back sheds all over the world, the people at Heineken realize that consumers are also thirsty for environmental responsibility. This has led to the development of the David XL Green draught system, a product that reduces the energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions associated with partaking in the amber fluid.
The beer brand known for its green bottles is becoming known for being green in a different way. This is partly due to the development of the David XL Green draught system which the company claims uses 50 per cent less energy than conventional draught systems and keeps beer fresh for up to 30 days. First released in 2012, the major innovation of the system is in the placement of the keg in relation to the tap.
By placing the refrigerator and 20 liter (5.3 US gal) refillable kegs directly beneath the counter and tap, the design reduces the distance the beer has to travel to get into your glass. By having a considerably shorter line from keg to tap means the beer holds its temperature better, which results in energy savings as the keg does not to be kept quite as cold.
Heineken says the system's disposable beer line also reduces the likelihood of contamination that can can occur in conventional systems that aren't cleaned properly. The throw-away nature of this component does, however, raise some questions about environmental accountability.
The system won the Top Product of the Year Award at this year’s Environmental Leader Product and Project Awards. Judges of the awards commented that, "David XL Green is a very creative product that solves customer problems, reduces costs, and delivers energy and greenhouse gas savings."
Source: Heineken