SMALL STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 


At Helmsman Rum, our ethos is quite simple - we are steadfastly dedicated to corporate responsibility and sustainable practices. We firmly believe that every business should contribute towards nurturing our planet and fostering a sustainable future. Equally significant, we understand that such transformation begins at home, within our own operations.

We prioritise environmentally friendly practices in our day-to-day business activities, contributing to global sustainability efforts. From our selection of suppliers to the management of our production processes, we incorporate environmental considerations at every juncture. Choosing to consciously tread this path, we inspire and encourage other businesses within our sphere to adopt a similar stance. Our combined actions can make a substantial difference, and it's these small steps taken in our own 'backyard' that can lead to a healthier, more sustainable world.

ALCOHOL SUSTAINABILITY

Helmsman Rum places paramount importance on a simple and sustainable sourcing process for our rum. We make conscious efforts to collaborate only with trustworthy companies that embody socially responsible practices. We import our rum using bulk containers such as 1000-litre IBCs or 200-litre drums, which are transported via shipping containers. This approach has been chosen as container shipping is the most carbon-efficient means of conveying goods globally, aligning with our environmental commitments.

As part of our vision for 2021, we aim to establish a partnership with a local distiller in New Zealand. This will enable us to craft and blend our rum domestically, provided our stringent quality and taste standards are met. Conversations are currently underway with promising local partners who we believe will complement our brand's ethos and commitment to sustainability.

PACKAGING SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainable Bottles

At Helmsman Rum, we proudly partner with the Saverglass Group for our bottle production, recognizing their unwavering commitment to sustainable development. Saverglass has successfully established environmentally-friendly and economically efficient manufacturing processes that also meet the standards of social responsibility.

By incorporating cullet (recycled glass) in their production process, Saverglass has brought significant environmental benefits, which align with our commitment to sustainability:

  • They mitigate the consumption of natural resources as cullet replaces the need for raw materials such as sand, limestone, and soda ash.

  • Energy preservation is achieved as cullet melts faster and at lower temperatures than natural raw materials.

  • The implementation of cullet significantly reduces CO2 emissions. Specifically, every ton of cullet used averts the direct emission of 250 to 300 kg of CO2.

  • Finally, the use of cullet contributes to a reduction in waste volume, preventing further waste accumulation.

Together, we are working towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Sustainable packaging

At Helmsman, our collaboration with Visy for box manufacturing reflects our commitment to sustainability. Visy, a pioneer in sustainable business practices, is known for establishing the first 100% recycled paper mill, instigating a transformation in the paper recycling sector across Australasia. The subsequent mills bolstered national recycling movements, catalyzing commercial interest in sustainable practices.

Visy has cultivated a comprehensive 'closed-loop' approach, pushing the boundaries beyond cardboard recycling to include plastics and other materials. Their relentless pursuit of advancement involves constant investment in new technologies and processes to continually enhance their facilities. This includes a substantial focus on renewable and clean energy solutions, reinforcing their environmental policy and contributing to our shared mission of sustainability.

Hally Labels

We are proud to announce that The Helmsman labels we use are crafted from FSC® chain of custody certified self-adhesive paper stock, reflecting our commitment to sourcing paper from responsibly managed forests. At Hally Labels, our emphasis on waste reduction is clear and well-integrated into our practices. Here's how we implement this in our operations:

  • We conduct environmental evaluations for all new initiatives.

  • Our services, facilities, equipment, and work practices are designed to minimize environmental impact.

  • We diligently ensure the efficient utilization of energy and materials, incorporating renewable resources wherever possible.

  • We dispose of waste responsibly, underlining our commitment to a healthier planet.

Where to from here?


In our unwavering commitment to amplify our sustainable practices, we're excited to collaborate with businesses that share our vision. Our initiative is focused on refining and delivering our products in reusable containers, catering to both the hospitality industry and daily consumers. We remain persistent in our journey to innovate and enhance our offerings, all while prioritizing environmental consciousness and responsible production processes.

Sustainable Coastlines

We have partnered up with Sustainable coastlines which was a no brainer for us. Keeping the beaches pristine for sealife and our tamariki & aligning with a charity that shares a connection to the ocean, just like us.

Helmsman Rum work with suppliers that:

·      Reduce waste and greenhouse emissions

·      Consider and minimise any lifecycle impacts of their products; and efficiently utilise natural resources

·      Use natural resources responsibly and minimise the environmental impacts of their manufacturing processes

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