Green Blog
Green Business Spotlight: Hopworks Urban Brewery
Hopworks Urban Brewery is proud to create exceptional beer and food with sustainable business practices that protect the planet and support the community. They have been a certified Green Business since 2017 and are one of only three breweries in Clark County to earn the certification.
Founded in 2007 by Christian Ettinger, Hopworks Urban Brewery remains an independent, family-owned brewery and brew pub. They produce 10,000 barrels of beer each year for distribution and to serve at their locations in Portland, the PDX airport, and our very own Vancouver! Hopworks is run on three core values: quality, the environment and community.
Hopworks is the first brewery in the Pacific Northwest to become a Certified B Corporation. This means they met the rigorous standard of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency determined by the nonprofit B Lab.
As a Salmon-Safe certified pub and brewery, Hopworks is committed to protecting our water, watershed and local habitats. Hopworks' Powell location was the first brewery to become Salmon-Safe certified in the world. Salmon-Safe works with Hopworks and other certified businesses to make sure on-site water is managed in a way that isn't harmful for native fish indicator species. Hopworks uses organic malts and a combination of locally-sourced, organic, and Salmon-Safe hops.
Hopworks promotes using alternative transportation. They are Bike Friendly Business silver certified by The League of American Bicyclists because of their welcoming atmosphere that encourages bicycle transportation. Hopworks incentivizes employees to cycle by offering ample and secure bike parking and repair areas.
Hopworks has made a strong effort to protect our planet with thoughtful alternatives to the status quo. Hopworks began a partnership with Patagonia Provisions five years ago and have produced three beers for them using a no till wheat that sequesters nitrogen. Hopworks creates bags out of their 50lb grain bags for reuse. Hopworks' pubs serve fresh food in sustainably-built and operated buildings. Hopworks partners with vendors to reduce packaging by purchasing in bulk. They promote green initiatives and certifications on their menu. Hopworks incentivizes customers to bring their own reusable to-go container by offering a discount on their meal. Food scraps are collected for composting, which recycles nutrients and reduces materials landfilled. Hand dryers are used in place of paper towels. Hopworks serves neighborhoods through donations, profit sharing, and volunteering with local non-profits.
Hopworks continues to find ways to be more efficient and reduce waste. Sustainability leaders within the company were excited to share that they are moving towards going paperless with QR code menus.
The Vancouver branch is 6,000-square feet with a small-batch 7-barrel brewing system. They have a full patio beer garden, Vancouver-only beers, a family-friendly atmosphere, and panoramic views. To learn more about Hopworks Urban Brewery, visit their website: www.hopworksbeer.com
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