) What environmental issues does the New Belgium Brewing Company work to address? How has NBB take strategic approach to addressing these issues? Why do you think the company has taken such a strong stance toward sustainability?

New Belgium Brewing Company strives to take an environment friendly approach to their manufacturing process and facility, focussing on reducing their carbon footprint and energy usage.

They were the first-ever American brewery to fully incorporate a wind turbine as a power source versus the burning of coal. Other approaches included the addition of a steam condenser to recycle hot water for use around other areas of the plant and sun tubes which utilize natural sunlight to light the plant. Furthermore, their used hops and barley are saved for the use of feeding area livestock instead of being wasted. Employees are also encouraged to be individually conservative by riding their gifted “cruiser bikes” to and from work.

It is our belief that the founder, Jeff Lebesch’s own personal values and love of the outdoors contributed to the company’s strong stance on sustainability. A long side that is the fact that adopting such sustainability measures will help to increase their bottom line.

2) Do you agree that New Belgium’s focus on social responsibility provides a key competitive advantage for the company? Why or why not?

We believe that New Belgium’s emphasis on social responsibility provides a key competitive advantage for their company. New Belgium showcases their commitment to being a socially responsible company in their ten company values and beliefs. Nearly all companies have values and beliefs, but few take an approach similar to New Belgium.

In their company’s values and beliefs, New Belgium does not only focus on monetary issues. They touch on a variety of topics that are socially responsible orientated.