Microbreweries in Southwestern Ontario

In the heart of Canada's southernmost region lies Ontario’s Southwest, a destination with a rich agricultural heritage, stunning lakeshores, and a thriving brewery scene. Microbreweries are rapidly emerging not just as a destination feature, but as a cultural expression and as community connectors. With more than 40 breweries operating in the region, each one tells a unique story – one of craftsmanship, innovation, and now, increasingly, sustainability. As the world works toward a sustainable future, industries in the tourism sector are being challenged to contribute including breweries. Canada has made a commitment to try to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal call to action to eradicate poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030. Destination Canada’s framework document A Regenerative Approach to Tourism in Canada echoes many of the same goals, calling for a paradigm shift in how tourism shapes communities and the environment and helps us imagine the power of impactful change that tourism brings. This case study takes you on a tour of three microbreweries in Southwestern Ontario, showcasing their dedication to sustainability. It uncovers each brewery's stories, challenges, and successes to discover their responsible business practices and role in contributing to the destination's trajectory toward a sustainable future, stewarded by the local Regional Tourism Organization, Ontario's Southwest, and their commitment to a three-year destination sustainability strategy and certification by GreenStep.

Beyond the beverages they create, breweries have the power to influence the local economy. While the challenges they face could feel overwhelming, many breweries in Ontario's Southwest stand as trailblazers for sustainability, addressing these challenges through innovative practices. As we share the perspectives and journeys of Charlotteville Brewery Co., London Brewing Cooperative, and Anderson Craft Ales, we aim to support others navigating their contribution to Canada’s shift to regenerative approaches to tourism. These breweries were selected, each with their own distinct identity because of their commitment to their community and the planet.

Environmental and Social Integrity at Charlotteville Brewery Co.

Cooperative Community Engagement at London Brewing Co. 

Carbon Neutrality and Collaborative Initiatives at Anderson Craft Ales

From the interviews conducted, it appears that the breweries of Ontario’s Southwest truly grasp the significance of collaboration and engagement with a diverse spectrum of stakeholders. All three breweries actively involve local communities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and suppliers in their sustainability journey. For instance, CBC collaborates with local farmers to source organic ingredients, fostering a strong supplier relationship and contributing to the growth of local agriculture.

All three breweries have made significant strides in their sustainability journey, thanks in part to the support offered by various government initiatives. While these resources have played a role in enabling investments in innovative technologies like carbon capture, waste diversion systems, and energy-efficient equipment, it's important to note that the road to sustainability is not solely paved by funding. Rather, it is connected to their deep commitment and dedication to making a positive impact on their communities and the environment. The three breweries are also very aware of the opportunity they have in raising awareness about sustainability with their customers. While the reality is that many customers visit these establishments for great beer, the breweries can educate and engage with customers about all of the pillars of sustainability. Using blogs, signage, and offering brewery tours to share their initiatives are common tools used by these businesses.

*Greenwashing is a term used to describe a false, misleading or untrue action or set of claims made by an organization about the positive impact that a company, product or service has on the environment

In Ontario’s Southwest, the microbrewery sector is undergoing a transformation, embracing sustainability as a cornerstone of its identity. Through the experiences of three exceptional breweries, Charlotteville Brewery Co, London Brewing Cooperative and Anderson Craft Ales, this case study has unveiled a journey of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and economic resilience. It becomes evident that these breweries are not just places to savor a well-crafted brew; they are pillars of hope and beacons of change. Through their businesses’ visions and values, they create a path towards a more sustainable future, one where businesses become catalysts for positive transformation. In the landscape of Destination Canada’s framework document A Regenerative Approach to Tourism in Canada, these breweries embody the vision of tourism as a bridge between people, nature, and communities. They are a testament to the idea that tourism can be a regenerative force, reconnecting people with the environment and nurturing communities. Sustainability should not merely be a buzzword; instead, it should be a fundamental promise, a commitment, and the guiding light illuminating a path toward a better future for all. The insights gained from these breweries underscore the importance of making sustainability an integral part of business plans, rather than an afterthought. It must be woven into the DNA of an organization, influencing every decision, and standing as a foundational principle. By embracing sustainability, we raise our glasses not only to a brighter future but to one that is more responsible, resilient and fairer for all.

Written by:
Amélie Chanda, Founder, Core Impact Coalition