In brief
Delegates and attendees at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, are sampling NEWBrew, a pilsner crafted from reclaimed sewage water, highlighting Singapore's commitment to water recycling.
At the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, attendees are raising their glasses to an unconventional brew — a hoppy pilsner named NEWBrew, produced from recycled toilet water. As delegates from around the world gather to tackle pressing climate issues, food and drink take center stage, fueling intense negotiations and discussions.The Australian delegation is famed for its free coffee, while the local Azerbaijani pavilion delights visitors with traditional strong tea served from ornate samovars. Yet, it's Singapore's unique offering that’s capturing attention: beer made entirely from reclaimed water. Samantha Thian, a member of Singapore’s youth delegation, shares the surprising journey many delegates take when encountering this innovative beverage. "At first their eyes widen," she explains, revealing that curiosity gives way to reassurance as attendees learn about the beer's recycled origins. "They’re usually coming back the next day for another," she adds, underscoring the drink's unexpected popularity.NEWBrew, which comes in eye-catching pastel cans adorned with graphics of solar panels and cityscapes, is the result of a collaboration between local brewery Brewerkz and Singapore's national water agency. This initiative aims to draw attention to the importance of water reclamation, showcasing practical solutions for sustainable water management.In the backdrop of climate discussions, Singapore’s creative approach to sustainability not only quips at traditional sanitation fears but also inspires other nations to explore innovative recycling solutions. As delegates sip NEWBrew in the retrofitted soccer stadium, they also engage in a dialogue about the future of water sustainability and its impact on global climate goals.
