There is a European country which, in addition to being recognized for its canals and its medieval architecture, has an innovative and unique system in the world: an underground beer pipeline who runs 3.3 kilometers below the city.
This engineering marvel was born after one of the oldest breweries in the country in question designed this structure to transport your craft beer sustainably and without disturbing the historic center.
In which country is the underground beer pipeline located?
This ingenious and advanced way of distributing beer was born in Belgium. Since 2016, in Brugesthe De Halve Maan brewery uses a underground beer pipeline which connects its factory located in the historic center of Bruges with its bottling plant on the outskirts.
This conduit allows the transfer of up to 5,000 liters of beer per houravoiding the use of trucks in the city center and contributing to the preservation of the medieval sidewalk.
This idea It was designed as a response to restrictions imposed by UNESCOwhich limited the movement of heavy vehicles in areas of historical interest to protect heritage.
The construction was financed in part by a crowdfunding campaign, raising around €350,000. One of the color data to take into account is that this system reduces CO₂ emissions and heavy traffic in the center of Bruges.
How was De Halve Maan, the iconic underground beer pipeline, born?
The project was promoted by Xavier Vannestecurrent owner of De Halve Maan. The idea came about while he was watching broadband cables being installed on his street and was inspired by underground technology. to solve the problem of transporting your craft beer.
After several years of planning, feasibility studies and administrative procedures, the project was approved and the pipeline began operating in 2016. As previously mentioned, the brewery sought financial support from the community, using a crowdfunding platform to complete the necessary financing.
History of De Halve Maan
The De Halve Maan brewery has a history dating back to the 19th century, ffounded in 1856 by Henri Maes in the heart of Bruges. For six generations, this family has perpetuated the brewing tradition by producing some of the most emblematic beers of the region such as Brugge Zot and the Straffe Hendrik.
THE Brugge Zota pale beer with a slightly bitter taste with citrus notes, has become a symbol of the city and is Recommended to accompany strong dishes. Another star beer in this sense is Straffe Hendrik.
Commitment to sustainability and the environment
In addition to being a logistical innovation, the underground beer pipeline reflects the De Halve Maan’s commitment to sustainable development. By reducing the need for heavy transportation, this system significantly reduces the brewery’s carbon footprint.
The company has also implemented other sustainable projects, such as use of local raw materials and collaboration with the Flemish government to reduce water consumption in beer production.
This project illustrates How a traditional brewery can adapt to modern challengespromoting a sustainable economic model without renouncing its heritage.
