In a notable development last year, Hrastnik1860, a member of Vaider Group, successfully pioneered the commercial production of premium glass spirits bottles using hydrogen as the primary energy source.
This significant step was made in collaboration with Bacardi and marks a major advancement toward sustainable production in the glass industry. Hrastnik1860 continues to innovate, utilizing hydrogen to melt glass in one furnace and hybrid technology incorporating up to 40 percent electricity in another. Following the successful initial production, they have reopened orders and will enable customers to produce glass bottles, including lightweight options, during their ‘Sustainable week’ in December 2024.
A clean fuel for a sustainable future
Hydrogen is emerging as a crucial energy vector in the drive toward sustainable industrial processes, particularly in energy-intensive industries, such as glass manufacturing. As a clean fuel, hydrogen only produces water vapour when burned, eliminating direct carbon dioxide emissions typically associated with the combustion of fossil fuels. Additionally, hydrogen can be easily produced from renewable energy sources via electrolysis, further enhancing its potential as a sustainable and versatile energy solution. These characteristics make it an excellent alternative for industries aiming to rapidly and significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
Hrastnik1860 is committed to investing in a more sustainable future, the company is pleased that various customers have shown interest in producing bottles using this advanced technology, especially for the premium segment, where quantities are often smaller. Production with hydrogen as the primary energy source allows their customers to order series starting from as low as 30,000 pieces, which is particularly appealing for producers of extremely exclusive premium spirits, aiming for purest possible glass – the so-called ‘extra white flint,’ especially for limited editions.
Lightweight bottles – A transformative approach
Redesigning bottles to be lighter is another factor contributing to sustainability by reducing energy consumption, water usage, and CO2 emissions. It optimizes operational and logistical aspects of glass manufacturing and transport costs. Lighter bottles require less raw material, significantly reducing the energy needed for production.
Additionally, this kind of production also consumes less water, a critical factor in conserving this resource. Together, reductions lead to lower operational costs and minimize the strain on resources, directly benefiting clients with cost savings.