Dutch Craft Brewer Jopen Innovates with IPA Made from Desalinated North Sea Water
Jopen Brewery and SEA Water have launched Life’s a Beach, the world’s first IPA brewed using desalinated North Sea water, promoting sustainability and supporting ocean biodiversity.
Innovative Brewing Process
The collaboration between Jopen, a renowned craft brewery based in Haarlem, the Netherlands, and SEA Water, a pioneer in sustainable water technology, is making waves in the brewing industry. By using desalinated North Sea water, Jopen is addressing two critical issues: freshwater scarcity and marine biodiversity. SEA Water utilizes renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to transform saline water into clean, mineral-rich drinking water. This innovative process ensures that the water used in brewing Life’s a Beach is not only sustainable but also rich in essential minerals, enhancing the beer’s flavor profile[1].
A Unique Beer with a Purpose
Life’s a Beach is a session IPA with an alcohol content of 4.5%, offering a refreshing taste with tropical fruit flavors and a subtle bitterness. The beer is designed to be enjoyed especially during the warmer months and is best served at a temperature of 4.5°C. Available in cans and on tap, Life’s a Beach aims to provide a delightful drinking experience while promoting environmental sustainability. A portion of the sales from this beer will be donated to ReefSystems, a Dutch startup focused on developing artificial reefs to restore ocean biodiversity[1][2].
Commitment to Sustainability
Jopen’s initiative is a testament to the brewery’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. By partnering with SEA Water, Jopen has become the first brewery in the world to brew a session IPA using desalinated seawater. This move not only highlights the brewery’s dedication to environmental conservation but also sets a new standard in the industry. The brewery’s spokesperson emphasized the importance of finding alternatives to freshwater sources, stating that the collaboration with SEA Water aligns with their vision of addressing the global freshwater shortage[1][3].
Wider Impact and Availability
The introduction of Life’s a Beach has been well received, with the beer now available in major supermarkets, liquor stores, festivals, and coastal areas across the Netherlands. This widespread availability ensures that a larger audience can participate in this sustainable initiative. The partnership between Jopen and SEA Water also serves as an inspiration for other companies in the beverage industry to explore innovative and eco-friendly solutions. By raising awareness about freshwater scarcity and marine biodiversity, Life’s a Beach is more than just a beer; it’s a call to action for environmental stewardship[1][4].