We caught up with Pedro González, the Head of Innovation at The Sustainable Agave Company and the driving force behind developing the company’s biodegradable product lines. Whether responding to customer demands or anticipating future needs, Pedro has a knack for finding creative ways to repurpose agave waste. Under his leadership, The Sustainable Agave Company has rolled out over 100 new SKUs. Pedro’s forward-thinking approach aligns perfectly with the company’s commitment to sustainability, showcasing his talent for bringing eco-friendly innovations to life.
Is the production of tequila known to be sustainable?
The sustainability of tequila production has been a growing concern due to the large amounts of agave waste, known as ‘bagazo,’ generated during the process. Traditionally, this waste has accumulated in landfills, posing significant environmental challenges. However, recent advancements have led to innovative upcycling methods that transform bagazo into biodegradable and compostable plastic alternatives. This not only reduces the demand for harmful petroleum-based plastics but also diverts the bagazo byproduct from landfills, contributing to more sustainable tequila production practices.
How are you using the byproducts of the tequila industry to reduce waste?
We are utilizing the byproducts of the tequila industry to produce disposables essential for hygienic food and beverage operations, such as straws, cups, and cutlery. This approach alleviates the environmental burden by transforming what was once considered waste into sustainable plastic alternatives. Our products not only reduce the need for virgin resources like corn, sugarcane, and canola, which are used in other bioplastics, but also decrease the demand for paper products that contribute to deforestation. While our products are durable, they are designed to degrade within 18-36 months, offering a more eco-friendly solution.
How are you innovating compostable product lines for the future?/How do you identify and harness creative opportunities to repurpose agave waste in various manufacturing processes?
We are actively exploring innovative opportunities to repurpose agave waste in various manufacturing processes, with a particular focus on developing compostable agave-based plastic bags. By expanding our range of products, we aim to make biodegradable and industrially compostable alternatives more mainstream, which will help grow the industry and further reduce waste. Our team is committed to sustainability and driven by a constant pursuit of creative innovation, ensuring that we continue to lead the way in developing eco-friendly solutions.
How do agave products compare to paper or PLA products?
Agave products outshine both paper and 100% PLA when it comes to sustainability and biodegradability. Paper often involves cutting down trees and consuming vast amounts of water, agave products are crafted from leftover agave waste from the production of tequila and agave nectar. This repurposing of waste not only prevents it from ending up in landfills but also contributes to reducing deforestation and lowering carbon emissions by avoiding the use of new materials. In comparison to pure PLA, which is made from fermented feedstocks (corn mostly, potato or sugarcane/cassava) which impacts food supply and contributes to driving up food cost and CO₂ emissions from purpose industrial-agriculturalization. This makes agave products a much greener choice overall.
How do you identify and harness creative opportunities to repurpose agave waste in various manufacturing processes?
Identifying and harnessing creative opportunities to repurpose agave waste in various manufacturing processes begins with a thorough understanding of agave fibers and their potential as usable materials. This foundational knowledge allows us to brainstorm and test different applications, ranging from packaging to textiles. For a product to be sustainable, it must also be practical and functional. Collaborating with industry leaders and market experts helps us explore new possibilities and identify gaps that agave-based products can fill. Staying open to feedback and continuously experimenting is crucial, as it enables us to discover innovative ways to incorporate agave waste into diverse products, ultimately enhancing both sustainability and utility.
