In Baku, delegates sip on hoppy pilsner while exploring new avenues in water reclamation and recycling in response to environmental challenges.
Beer Made from Recycled Water Highlights Climate Innovations at COP29

Beer Made from Recycled Water Highlights Climate Innovations at COP29
Singapore’s inventive NEWBrew, made from sewage, sparks discussions about sustainability at climate summit.
At the ongoing COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, innovative beverage choices are drawing attention, with Singapore’s collaboration with Brewerkz to produce NEWBrew, a pilsner crafted from recycled toilet water, stealing the spotlight. As environmental sustainability takes center stage at this annual gathering, this unique brew is piquing the curiosity—and sometimes the skepticism—of summit attendees.
Delegates and observers participating in the climate discussions are frequenting various pavilions at the event for refreshments, with the Australian booth known for its complimentary coffee and the Azerbaijani pavilion favoring strong traditional tea. However, the buzz surrounds Singapore’s initiative to promote water reclamation efforts through NEWBrew, which comes in colorful cans adorned with imagery depicting the water cycle.
Samantha Thian, a leader of the youth delegation from Singapore, shared that while initial reactions to the beer’s unconventional ingredients might be one of surprise, many people return for more after being reassured about the drink's unique origin. This initiative not only raises awareness about Singapore’s water scarcity challenges but also highlights the potential of recycling and sustainable resource management in daily life.
The beer represents a broader movement at COP29, demonstrating how countries are creatively tackling environmental issues, while also serving as a conversation starter among delegates from around the world. As provided at this year's summit, the push for innovative solutions like these highlights the necessity of integrating sustainability into everyday habits in the ongoing battle against climate change.
Delegates and observers participating in the climate discussions are frequenting various pavilions at the event for refreshments, with the Australian booth known for its complimentary coffee and the Azerbaijani pavilion favoring strong traditional tea. However, the buzz surrounds Singapore’s initiative to promote water reclamation efforts through NEWBrew, which comes in colorful cans adorned with imagery depicting the water cycle.
Samantha Thian, a leader of the youth delegation from Singapore, shared that while initial reactions to the beer’s unconventional ingredients might be one of surprise, many people return for more after being reassured about the drink's unique origin. This initiative not only raises awareness about Singapore’s water scarcity challenges but also highlights the potential of recycling and sustainable resource management in daily life.
The beer represents a broader movement at COP29, demonstrating how countries are creatively tackling environmental issues, while also serving as a conversation starter among delegates from around the world. As provided at this year's summit, the push for innovative solutions like these highlights the necessity of integrating sustainability into everyday habits in the ongoing battle against climate change.