Water scarcity in Singapore is a dire situation, and is only getting worse. Amidst climate change, the small island state with a population of 6 million faces the dual challenges of ensuring sustainable water supply during droughts and effective drainage during intense rain seasons. That’s why Singapore’s Tuas Power, a power company that has diversified into the water business, is behind this new “Sewage Beer” called NewBrew. It’s made with treated sewage water that is purified to meet the World Health Organization standards.
But, you might ask, what does it taste like? Well, according to those who have tried it, it’s a beer with a unique and refreshing taste. With a floral and citrusy aroma, and a slight caramel sweetness, the beer finishes off with a lingering bitterness.
Water scarcity is a growing global challenge, with over two billion people lacking access to safe and clean water. This has led to the need for innovative solutions to conserve and reuse water. Singapore is one country that has taken proactive measures to address water scarcity, investing in technologies such as wastewater recycling to meet its water needs.
The Story Behind the Sewage Beer
NewBrew undergoes multiple stages of treatment, including filtration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet disinfection, before being used in the brewing process.
Despite the initial hesitation that many may have towards drinking beer made from sewage water, NewBrew has been receiving positive reviews. Beer enthusiasts who have tasted the beer describe it as having a unique and refreshing taste, with a crisp and slightly bitter finish. According to the makers of NewBrew, the beer has a “floral and citrusy aroma with a slight caramel sweetness, finishing off with a lingering bitterness.”
The Potential for Sustainable Brewing
NewBrew represents a significant shift in the brewing industry, which is one of the largest water consumers globally. By using recycled sewage water, breweries can reduce their water consumption, conserve resources, and contribute to a more sustainable future. The technology behind NewBrew can be applied to other breweries around the world, especially those located in water-scarce regions.
Despite the potential of NewBrew, there are still challenges and limitations to overcome. One major hurdle is consumer perception. Many people may be hesitant to drink beer made from sewage water, even if it is treated and purified. The high cost of treatment and purification is also a factor that limits widespread adoption of the technology. Furthermore, the regulations around the use of recycled water for brewing may vary across different regions, which can further complicate the process.
NewBrew’s sewage beer is a prime example of how innovative solutions can be used to address the global challenge of water scarcity. By transforming waste into a valuable resource, NewBrew has created a unique and sustainable product that showcases the potential of recycled water in the brewing industry. While there are still challenges and limitations to overcome, the success of NewBrew highlights the potential for other breweries around the world to adopt similar technologies and contribute to a more sustainable future. As consumers become increasingly environmentally conscious, sustainable brewing is likely to become more important and relevant, making NewBrew a trailblazer in this emerging industry.
