Cowbell's Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability has been part of Cowbell’s vision from the beginning. From how we brew and package our beverages to how we use water and energy, we’re continually looking for ways to reduce our environmental impact. For us, it’s also about being a good steward of the land we call home — respecting its agricultural roots, caring for it responsibly today, and protecting it for generations to come.
Our Initiatives
The Cowbell building is constructed from Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certified wood products and renewable Canadian Douglas Fir, Pine, Oak and Hemlock, and other locally-sourced timeless materials.
Instead of rinsing our cans with precious water, which then goes down the drain, Cowbell cans are cleaned with zero-waste ionized air, currently conserving approximately 10 million litres of water per year.
The water used to make our delicious, premium craft beverages is sourced from an on-site proprietary well (water is treated through a three-step filtration process, including particle filtration, carbon filtration and UV light), then wastewater is treated, removing 99% of the organic load.
The Cowbell parking lot features 5 electric vehicle-charging stations.
Environmentally inert fiberglass and wood windows were installed throughout the building. The west-facing windows were coated to reduce the greenhouse effect by 80%. Operable cupola windows provide natural ventilation via the stack effect and reduce the need for air conditioning in the summer. Ceiling fans reduce temperature stratification and reduce the heating and cooling load by 20%.
All lighting fixtures are high-efficiency LED, with motion sensors to turn on lights only when required.
Low-flow fixtures throughout the building minimize the use of water and the effect on the on-site wastewater treatment plant.
Through a multi-year partnership with the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority, 28-acres at Cowbell have been reforested with 17,000 native species trees, pollinators and fruit producers.
Sections of green roof absorb solar radiation and rainwater, clean the air and provide a habitat for butterflies, insects and small birds.
The Cowbell General Store, E-Store and the brewery use post-consumer recyclable packaging materials.
Our Rectification Boil System increases the efficiency of the brew kettle by 80%. It allows for more beer to be brewed in less time, using less energy, while conserving 250 litres of water per brew.
This year, cowbell is proud to partner with the enviro stewards safe water project to launch the cup for cup program.