The Problem
Each year the alcohol industry in Mexico (tequila, Mezcal, Rum, Anhidrous, Pharmaceutical, Medicinal, Cosmetic, etc.) generates more than 170 million gallons of alcohol. This number shows the importance of such industry and the relevance it may have on our country’s economy.
Nonetheless, it is important to mention that for every gallon of alcohol produced, up to 3.9 gallons of a highly polluting liquid is generated. This liquid is known as Vinasse and due to its physicochemical properties, it is very difficult and costly to treat and dispose of.
For these reasons, the alcohol industry in its majority has chosen to set the problem aside and dispose of it in an unlawful manner, dumping it into rivers, sewage and land, causing grave social and environmental problems.