SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT

Bacardi’s Sustainability Commitment: Redefining Green in the Spirits Industry

by Meagan E. Reed

March 18, 2025

For decades, Bacardi has been a household name in the spirits industry, known for crafting high-quality rum and premium brands like Bombay Sapphire and Patrón Tequila. While many recognize Bacardi for its iconic beverages, fewer realize the company’s deep commitment to sustainability. As consumer demand for eco-conscious practices grows, Bacardi is leading the charge with bold initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint—both globally and locally.

Sustainability in Action

Bacardi has made significant strides in eliminating plastic waste. The company has been plastic-free for several years, removing single-use plastic straws and transitioning toward more sustainable packaging solutions. One of its most ambitious projects is the development of a biodegradable bottle made from aluminum, which aligns with its long-term goal of reducing waste across its supply chain.

Patrón Tequila and Bombay Sapphire have already achieved full sustainability, setting a high bar for the rest of the Bacardi portfolio. 

The Bombay Sapphire Distillery at Laverstoke Mill has achieved significant sustainability milestones, receiving the prestigious BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) Award for Industrial Design in 2024. “BREEAM is the world’s leading and most widely used environmental assessment method for buildings, sets the standard for best practice in sustainable design, and has become the measurement used to describe a building’s environmental performance.” (www.bombaysapphire.com)

PATRÓN Tequila is the first tequila distillery to certify its agave production with GlobalG.A.P., an international standard for safe and sustainable farming practices. This certification underscores PATRÓN's commitment to transparency and sustainability in the agave spirits industry.

These initiatives highlight just a few of the Bacardi brands' many efforts and dedication to sustainable practices, setting benchmarks in the spirits industry. Both of these significant accomplishments are the product of a conscious effort by the company to reduce its carbon footprint, impact the environment, and leave its legacy.

Bacardi In Pittsburgh: Making an Impact

Bacardi also has a tangible impact on our local communities. In Pittsburgh, they are partnering with Pittsburgh Earth Day to support sustainability initiatives, including the La Fleur Music x Art x Culture x Botanicals Soirée, an unforgettable evening of music, art, fashion, culture and beautiful botanicals at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens on Thursday, April 3 at 6:30 pm, as well as the 10th Annual Ecolution Fashion Gala, an event that highlights eco-friendly fashion and circular economy practices, happening on Wednesday, June 25 at 6 pm at the Carnegie Museum.

Bacardi has also partnered with local companies and organizations like 412 Food Rescue, which works to minimize food waste and promote sustainability in the food and beverage industry, actively works with Tina’s Bar and Bottle Shop, a leading eco-conscious establishment in Pittsburgh’s Bloomfield neighborhood, to explore waste reduction strategies and supporting initiatives.

Ayesha Scott, Bacardi’s Pennsylvania Market Manager, said “One of the biggest sustainability challenges in the hospitality industry is glass waste, as bars and restaurants generate an enormous amount of used bottles. Unfortunately, recycling infrastructure in Pittsburgh is lacking, making it difficult for establishments to implement proper recycling programs.” 

Bacardi believes sustainability should be seamlessly integrated into everyday experiences—including nightlife. Scott has a passion and desire to continue to educate local bars and restaurants about how they can make strides toward contributing to reducing waste and making recycling glass a priority for servers, bartenders, and staff. 

Bacardi: A Family-Owned Brand That Cares

Despite being a global powerhouse, Bacardi remains a family-owned business with a strong commitment to people and the planet. The company recognizes that sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s about supporting the communities that help bring its products to life.

“People have a conception of Bacardi as a brand and a big corporate company. They are family-owned and they care a lot about the people that work for them as well as their impact on the earth,” Scott said.

While Bacardi’s global sustainability division is based in Miami, there are many opportunities for local partnerships in Pennsylvania. Those interested in collaborating can connect with Ayesha through LinkedIn or email to explore potential initiatives.

As Bacardi continues its journey toward full sustainability, it sets an example for the entire spirits industry. From eliminating plastic and reducing waste to partnering with local organizations, the company is proving that great drinks and great environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

Bacardi is committed to sustainability through six key pillars

These initiatives demonstrate Bacardi's comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship and community engagement.

1] Sustainable Sourcing

The company achieved its goal of sourcing 100% of the sugarcane for its Caribbean rum from sustainably certified suppliers three years ahead of schedule.

2] Cleaner Energy

Bacardi has implemented a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system at its Puerto Rico distillery, reducing emissions by 50% and aiming for 100% energy self-sufficiency.

3] Water Management

The company aims to replenish 50% of the water used in its products, focusing on sustainable water use and conservation.

4] Biodiversity

Bacardi received the first Wildlife Habitat Council Certification in Puerto Rico for its conservation efforts toward bats and pollinators like bees and butterflies.

5] Community

The company recycles used oak barrels into Bomba drums for local communities in Puerto Rico, promoting cultural heritage and sustainability.

6] Ocean Conservation

Bacardi partners with Beneath the Waves, a non-profit organization dedicated to ocean conservation, supporting marine research, and the protection of seagrass meadows.