Carlsberg announces zero carbon pledge inspired by Donald Trump's rejection of Paris agreement

'We feel we can take responsibility in our own hands and don’t need to depend on politicians for this,' chief executive Cees ‘t Hart said

The company will also seek to half its water usage, with particular focus on areas of the world vulnerable to water scarcity (Niklas Morberg/ Flickr CC)

Carlsberg has pledged to eliminate all carbon emissions from its breweries by 2030, citing Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from the Paris climate agreement as a key motivation.

The Danish beer giant said its new sustainability drive will go beyond the goals put forward in the global agreement on greenhouse gas emissions. The company will also seek to half its water usage, with particular focus on areas of the world vulnerable to water scarcity.

Carlsberg said it would close down small coal power stations at its breweries in China, India and Poland, replacing them with renewable energy sources.

“People in Carlsberg are more energised after Trump said no to the Paris agreement,” Carlsberg chief executive Cees ‘t Hart said on Tuesday.

“We feel we can take responsibility in our own hands and don’t need to depend on politicians for this. You could argue it’s a drop in the ocean, but if everybody says that we won’t make any progress.”

The strategy, dubbed “Together Towards Zero”, will be the equivalent of taking 160,000 cars off the road, the company said.

Mr ‘t Hart said he was “convinced” that the measures would not simply be good for the environment but would also make the company more efficient.

Carlsberg said it plans to invest in a community of young scientists who will help to spur innovation and help to further reduce carbon emissions along the supply chain.

The company is also looking to further promote responsible drinking by stepping up its alcohol-free drinks production.

Brewers are faced with declining levels of alcohol consumption among millennials, particularly in developed markets. Mr 't Hart said the company was also trying to provide products for pregnant women and health-conscious consumers who are turning their backs on higher-calorie drinks.