Pingtung: The Ministry of Environment (MOENV) has recognized the Pingtung Distillery for its pioneering sustainability initiatives, particularly its use of biogas generated from fermentation residue to produce electricity. The state-run Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corp.'s (TTL) facility has been certified as an "environmental education facility" by MOENV's National Environmental Research Academy.
According to Focus Taiwan, the distillery, which is southern Taiwan's largest producer of Red Label Rice Wine, offers educational tours and classes that highlight its energy-saving technologies, waste reduction, and water-recycling systems. These initiatives are designed to provide practical teaching content for the public. The facility's innovative use of biogas involves converting 20.7 kilograms of distillery stillage into 1 kilowatt-hour of power.
The distillery's commitment to sustainability extends beyond biogas production. Approximately 90 percent of its glass bottles are recycled, with each bottle being reused up to five times. Additionally, the distillery repurposes its waste to produce 68 metric tons of organic fertilizer annually. The National Environmental Research Academy awards "environmental education facility" certification to venues that demonstrate sustainable operations and offer public education on environmental protection.
As of early 2025, a total of 273 venues, including museums, leisure farms, and national parks, have received this prestigious certification.
