By switching to biomass, the brewer should meet its net-zero targets five years ahead of plan

Lao Brewery Company (LBC), Laos’ largest brewer, is advancing its environmental strategy by transitioning to biomass energy and reinforcing sustainability initiatives.

LBC is a joint venture between Carlsberg Asia and the Government of Laos. The brewery’s flagship Beerlao brand holds a whopping 95% market share in the Southeast Asian country.

The move aligns with Carlsberg Group’s global “Together Towards ZERO and Beyond” programme, which targets net-zero emissions at all its breweries by 2030.

LBC has partnered with VN Green Energy Company to establish Laos’ first biomass factory, scheduled to supply green steam energy to the Vientiane brewery from February 2025.

This shift is expected to replace most fossil fuel consumption at the plant, enabling LBC to meet its net-zero targets five years earlier than anticipated.

The company also intends to explore renewable energy applications at its Pepsi facility in Vientiane and its brewing operations in Pakse.

LBC has already implemented various measures to reduce its environmental impact, including a sustainable rice farming project that promotes organic methods, employs regenerative agriculture technology and aims to foster an entirely eco-friendly cultivation ecosystem.

Additional programmes have lowered water usage, increased packaging sustainability, and minimised waste, including a zero packaging waste initiative that reclaims and reuses 97% of 640ml Beerlao bottles.

The company’s broader social investments encompass education, healthcare, and disaster relief, reflecting a commitment to shared value across local communities.

Founded in 1973, LBC employs over 2,500 workers across three production lines in Vientiane and Pakse.