Singapore's Unconventional Sustainable Brew Steals Spotlight at COP29

At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, discussions on climate action have been paired with unusual yet clever solutions, like Singapore's NEWBrew, a beer made from treated wastewater.

At the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, food and drink have once again taken on a symbolic role, fueling conversations and negotiations around climate initiatives. Among the various offerings from participating nations, the Singaporean pavilion has captured significant attention with a remarkable product: NEWBrew, a refreshing pilsner crafted from recycled toilet water.

Delegates from around the world flock to the Singaporean stall, intrigued by the sustainable initiative. "At first, their eyes widen in disbelief," recounts Samantha Thian, a leader of Singapore’s youth delegation. “But after we explain the process behind it, many return the next day for more.” The pilsner, which is presented in pastel cans adorned with imagery of solar panels and rainclouds, aims not only to quench thirsts but also to promote the importance of water reclamation.

This collaboration between Singapore’s national water agency and the craft beer company Brewerkz highlights innovative practices to tackle water scarcity effectively—a pressing issue for many countries facing climate change challenges. The project not only normalizes the conversation around wastewater recycling but also aligns with the summit's objective of fostering sustainable practices globally.

As delegates sit under the impressive structure of the retrofitted stadium, they enjoy traditional Azerbaijani strong tea and complimentary Australian coffee, yet the unique offering from Singapore highlights the creativity and forward-thinking approaches being discussed at COP29. Through unconventional means, the Singapore delegation champions both sustainability and engagement, making NEWBrew a memorable part of this year's climate discourse.