How to Go Green: Beers

Beer isn't just the poster beverage for college parties, your after-work wind down, and lazy Sunday afternoons everywhere—no, beer is also a key player in a multi-billion dollar industry that reaches into the far corners of the world. Everyone loves beer—even environmentalists—and that might be why there's been a recent boom in green, organic spirits, sustainable and renewable energy-powered breweries, and environmentally conscious, discerning drinkers.

That's why it's as pertinent time as ever to think about what we all can do to green our beer drinking—and there's more to do than you might think. From supporting sustainable, even solar powered breweries, to drinking organic, pesticide-free beers, to steering clear of excessive packaging in cans and bottles, this in-depth guide to environmentally conscious imbibing dives into the wild, burgeoning world of green beer. You may never think of boozing the same way.

Or, more likely, you might think of boozing much the same way, but you might reach for an organic ale instead of a Bud. Which is just as well—if there's one thing that should come across in this guide, it's that green and organic beer is good. It really just tastes as good—some will even say better—than the beers from other craft and major breweries you no doubt enjoy. And if you love beer, it shouldn't take much coercion to get you to try an intriguing new lager—as long as you make it a green one.

We'll get you started on green beer basics, and show you: how to pick out organic and vegan beers, why drinking draught is better than the bottle, what the hell a growler is (and why you should use one), and how to avoid drinking beers made with fish bladder parts—sorry to be the one to break it to you, but you've imbibed plenty of them.

You'll learn why the a six pack's carbon footprint is heavier than the six pack itself, why most beers aren't organic, and why it's best to steer clear of the admittedly cheaper domestic beer brands.

Also, if you had to guess, how many breweries in the U.S. are running mostly on solar power right now? How big is the organic beer industry? The answers to both questions are good indicators of the innovation and evolving nature of the current beer industry—and good examples of how it's taken a turn for the greener.

So gear up, fellow lovers of libations. We're all going to have to start saving the world—one beer at a time.

What are the best local brews in your area? How do you make your own beer? We've got the answers and lots more questions about beer in our quiz: Do You Know Your Green Brew? Click on over to get started and learn tons of great green knowledge along the way.