Brewing change: Carlsberg Vietnam walks the talk on World Environment Day

On a bright morning in Phuoc Tinh commune, Long Dat district, Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, about 200 volunteers from Carlsberg Vietnam, including employees, senior leaders, and their families, rolled up their sleeves for a meaningful coastal clean-up.

Over three tons of trash were collected along the coastal border, helping restore the natural beauty of the shoreline and spreading the spirit of environmental action.

Held in celebration of World Environment Day 2025 and supported by the Embassy of Denmark, the initiative was a tangible expression of Carlsberg Vietnam’s commitment to water conservation and sustainability.

It also reinforced the company’s broader ambition under the group’s Together Towards ZERO and Beyond strategy, including its goal of achieving net-zero emissions in beer production by 2028.

A purpose beyond brewing

Sustainability isn’t just a pillar at Carlsberg Vietnam – it’s part of how the company operates every day. In recent years, the brewer has become a frontrunner in responsible water management.

Since 2019, it has reduced water consumption by over 30%, making its Phu Bai Brewery one of the most water-efficient sites in Carlsberg Group.

“At Carlsberg Vietnam, we believe sustainability lives in everyday actions,” said Andrew Khan, managing director of Carlsberg Vietnam.

“Whether its reducing water use inside the brewery or joining hands with our communities on the beach, every action matters. This clean-up might seem simple, but it reflects a bigger belief: real change begins where we are, and with what we do together.”

The initiative also received strong support from the Embassy of Denmark. Danish Ambassador to Vietnam, Nicolai Prytz, and embassy representatives joined volunteers on-site, highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration in building a greener future.

“What impressed me most wasn’t just the amount of trash collected, but the spirit behind it,” said Danish Ambassador Nicolai Prytz.

“Environmental progress happens when people of all backgrounds unite with purpose. It was inspiring to join this effort – not as an ambassador, but as a fellow citizen of our shared planet.”

A company-wide effort. A shared responsibility

From commercial and supply chain teams to back-office staff and senior leadership, volunteers showed up as one united Carlsberg Vietnam. Many brought along their children, using the occasion as a chance to educate the next generation about environmental stewardship.

More than a moment: A roadmap to net-zero

While the clean-up was a one-day effort, it supports a much longer journey. Carlsberg Vietnam remains firmly on track to reach net-zero emissions in beer production by 2028, a key milestone in its contribution to Vietnam’s national climate targets.

To get there, the company has invested in advanced wastewater treatment, water-saving technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable packaging. Currently, 100% of its glass bottles are returnable, and cartons are made of 90% recycled material.

Beyond operational efficiency, Carlsberg Vietnam has expanded its environmental impact through community-focused programs. The company's "Fresh Water for Beloved Central" initiative, now in its sixth year, has provided clean water access to nearly 9,000 households in five provinces, positively impacting over 35,000 people.

Brewing for a better today and tomorrow

As Vietnam continues its national green transition, Carlsberg Vietnam is aligning every part of its operations – product, process, and people – around a clear purpose: to brew for a better today and tomorrow.

"True sustainability goes beyond brewery walls," added Andrew Khan. "It lives in how we take action for our communities, how we use resources wisely, and how we build trust through action. That’s what this event is about. Not just a company initiative, but a shared effort among colleagues, families, and partners who believe in doing the right thing – not just for ourbusiness, but for the planet.”

While World Environment Day 2025 may have ended, the momentum continues. From the shoreline to the brewery, from community clean-ups to clean water access, Carlsberg Vietnam is proving that sustainability isn’t a campaign. It’s a commitment. And real change, as the company continues to show, is brewed in every action we take - together.