Dept. of Tourism:Capital Brewery Company, Inc. joins ranks of Travel Green Wisconsin

MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Johnson, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
608-266-0458; djohnson@travelwisconsin.com

Jessica Schluter, Capital Brewery Company, Inc.
608-235-2792; jrs@capital-brewery.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Management and staff embrace programs earning their company its green certification.

MADISON, Wis. (Nov. 19, 2012) – Innovative recycling of organic byproduct materials combined with staff supported green initiatives has helped Capital Brewery Company, Inc. earn certification for Travel Green Wisconsin (TGW) , an environmentally sustainable initiative through the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. They join the ranks of over 345 Travel Green Wisconsin certified business with a vested interest in this future-thinking environmental initiative.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Capital Brewery Company to the ranks of those using green practices in their businesses and look forward to seeing the Travel Green Wisconsin logo they have earned the right to use, displayed as part of their green corporate identity,” said Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett. “The innovative practices this brewery undertakes on a daily basis are impressive for it demonstrates a commitment to protecting the future of our state’s environment while supporting Middleton’s goals towards their stewardship and raising the bar for going green in other Wisconsin communities.”

Capital Brewery’s environmental program allows two-thirds of all spent grain to be reused as a feedstock for local cattle farmers. Additionally, this initiative is supported by other established programs that recycle or compost organic waste. These simple practices keep over 200 cubic yards of waste material out of Wisconsin landfills on an annual basis. Capital Brewery has also launched green programs for their employees and customers exemplified by the Capital Brewery Bike Club™. The club encourages use of alternate transportation that helps decrease air pollutants while promoting healthy lifestyles. A byproduct of this fun practice is increased camaraderie among employees and members, and a healthier corporate culture for everyone. More information can be found at www.capitalbrewery.com.

“Capital Brewery has a rich history of commitment to being responsible stewards of our environment. Not only is this the right thing to do, but we also find that it makes sound business sense as well. Many of our green initiatives have positive return on investment while reducing our impact on the environment at the same time. Our new kegging machine uses less water to clean the kegs, and our new packaging utilizing Wisconsin based suppliers includes more recycled content, reduces transportation costs, and saves diesel. Green is definitely good for business,” states Tom Stitgen, General Manager.

Travel Green Wisconsin’s program is the first of its kind in the nation and serves as a stewardship model by promoting sound environmental practices in the tourism industry. Unique for its inclusiveness, all tourism-enterprises who share a commitment to protecting Wisconsin’s environmental legacy are invited to participate. Applicants are subject to rigorous yet obtainable standards before earning TGW certification status. To learn more about TGW and its benefits, call Shelly Allness, Program Manager and Liaison, at 608-261-8767 or email her at mallness@travelwisconsin.com.

The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the State as the Midwest’s premier travel destination by executing industry-leading marketing programs and establishing strategic partnerships. The Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact and jobs for Wisconsin. The portal for traveler information can be found at: www.travelwisconsin.com.

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