Trip to Scotland
My trip to Scotland was initially about indulging in history and whisky, but it turned into an enlightening journey through the landscape of sustainability. Upon arriving in Scotland, the green landscape stretched out for miles. At the edge of the horizon, I spotted what looked like windmills—Don Quixote’s giant enemies! These modern turbines were a pleasant surprise, especially after hearing about the struggles to get offshore turbines up in New England over the past few years. As we moved from the airport to the city center, we passed by Low Emission Zone signs. Our taxi driver explained that Edinburgh had recently implemented these zones to reduce carbon emissions in congested areas. Only low-emission vehicles could drive through the city center without incurring penalties and fines. Non-conforming vehicles were encouraged to park outside the city center and complete their commutes using public transportation or walking. However, we quickly learned that the public transportation infrastructure wasn’t fully established to accommodate everyone yet—an all-too-familiar story for someone living outside of Boston!
Where are the Teslas?
Within the cities, however, I found one thing missing: Tesla EVs. In Massachusetts, there are currently about 66,000 battery electric vehicles and 38,000 plug-in hybrids among over 5 million vehicles. I remember when the Tesla store opened in the Natick Mall back in 2012. Since then, with the spread of Tesla stores and supercharger stations, Teslas have become a common sight. I see one almost every time I’m on the road. In Scotland, however, this was not the case. As we left the cities and headed toward the countryside, driving through the lochs in the rain, we were surrounded by pristine water (also known as future whisky!). Our tour guide shared that the drinking water in Scotland is publicly owned and exceptionally clean, making it safe to drink everywhere.
Innovative Distilling
The real sustainability lessons began once we arrived on Islay, home of the peated Scotch whisky. As the energy nerd in the group, I was thrilled with these lessons, though my family might have gotten more than they bargained for. Our first stop was at the Bowmore distillery, where we saw their kiln used to dry the barley before it is milled into grist, imparting its characteristic peat smoke flavor. For those unfamiliar, peat “is the surface organic layer of a soil that consists of partially decomposed organic matter, derived mostly from plant material, which has accumulated under conditions of waterlogging, oxygen deficiency, high acidity and nutrient deficiency.” Peat is an organic fuel source found abundantly across Islay and other Scottish islands. Distilleries use peat in their kilns, giving the whisky its smoky aroma. Each Islay whisky has varying amounts of peat, measured in phenol parts per million (ppm). To find your ideal whisky ppm, here is a helpful scale. I personally find that some offer reasonable amount of smoke, but others can taste like you’re eating a bonfire. Enough about peat for now. What’s exceptional about Bowmore’s kiln is that the hot air is recycled through a heat recovery system to warm a local swimming pool! Many distilleries also use heat exchangers in their processes to reduce distilling times, to use less water and energy. If you’re looking to learn how these work, this a good start. These blends of tradition and innovation at the distilleries showcase how sustainability can be woven into even the most time-honored practices.
New EVs
I didn’t forget about EVs (how could I?!). On our ferry ride to the island, I spotted several EVs – including the illusive VW ID Buzz that is not yet out in the US. Right across the street from Bowmore distillery and pool are some EV charging stations – how convenient!
https://maps.app.goo.gl/yow84Mr46fRMmVn46
Driving between distilleries, you’re going to have to take your time and watch out for sheep. The roads are built on peat and will test your suspension! You won’t want to go too fast anyways, or you will miss the peat banks, barley fields, and overall gorgeous views. Peat farming has evolved over time to be more sustainable, especially with the larger producing distilleries, but some smaller brands like Kilchoman still cut peat the old way. Now that’s really all about peat.
Tradition & Sustainability
In Scotland, the intertwining of ancient traditions and modern sustainability practices is inspiring. From the wind turbines on the horizon to the innovative energy solutions in whisky distilleries, every aspect of our trip illustrated a commitment to a greener future. As we raise a glass of peated whisky, let’s toast to the seamless blend of history and progress. Here’s to embracing sustainability in all our adventures and supporting practices that make our world both richer and more sustainable. Cheers to a brighter, greener future! Bonus: Bowmore distillery visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sgHsl2nYDU Summary My trip to Scotland was initially about indulging in history and whisky, but it turned into an enlightening journey through the landscape of sustainability. From the impressive wind turbines dotting the Scottish horizon to Edinburgh’s Low Emission Zones and Bowmore distillery’s innovative use of recycled heat, Scotland’s commitment to green practices was clear. The evolving peat farming methods and the sight of electric vehicles on the island further highlighted how tradition and sustainability can harmoniously coexist. This adventure showcased how we can blend appreciation for heritage with a forward-thinking approach to environmental care.
Have Questions about EVs? Contact us! https://ene.org/ene-drives-electric/contact-ene-drives-electric/
