Ending the sale of peat: consultation analysis

6. Impact on the whisky industry

The importance of peat to Scotland’s whisky industry was noted repeatedly across consultation questions, primarily by organisations in the sector but also by a small number of individual whisky consumers. The qualitative analysis of these comments is presented in this chapter.

When asked at Q11 if they could stop using peat now, some whisky organisations noted that peat-smoked malted barley was the only way to achieve the distinctive phenols in peated whisky. A ban on the sale of peat would mean they are unable to make whisky using peated malted barley, which would result in the closure of distilleries with a loss of jobs in remote rural communities. Diageo highlighted that traditional methods of malting using peat smoke are centuries old, and are used in producing 80% of all Scottish Whisky sold worldwide which generates approximately £4.4 billion for the UK economy.

“The use of peat in the malting process is an essential component in the production of many Scotch Whiskies, including in the vast majority of Blended Scotch Whisky and all peated Single Malt Scotch Whisky… A total ban on peat would have huge consequences for jobs in the Scotch Whisky industry. Distilleries, bottling plants, warehouses and other facilities tied to the industry are significant employers and bring many high-quality jobs to the communities in which they operate. The Scotch Whisky industry alone supports over 42,000 jobs in Scotland. Over 11,000 of these are direct employees of distilleries. In rural communities specifically, the industry supports upward of 7,000 jobs … Without [peat], the majority of scotch whisky could not be produced, and this would lead to the end of many key brands and numerous jobs across Scotland.” – The Scotch Whisky Association

Many argued at Q15 that the whisky industry should be exempt from a ban on the sale of peat. A lack of an alternative to peat was highlighted as a particular challenge for the industry. Other reasons included that peat use for whisky is a small proportion of total peat usage and the potential negative impact on Scotland’s economy. A few suggested the industry could be exempt, but tighter controls should be in place.

“[Stopping using peat] would only be possible if a viable alternative to peat was found that gave the same flavour profiles and was acceptable for use within the regulations that exist for Scotch Whisky production. Although research is taking place, this is not looking to be a likely prospect for some time.” – The Malters’ Association of Great Britain

Conversely, a few individuals noted the sector would be affected but should be included in the ban.

“I don't necessarily feel that the whisky industry and local peat burning should be exempt, but I do feel they require a longer-term, just transition” - Individual

The Maltsters' Association of Great Britain suggested that exempted industries, e.g. whisky producers, might face negativity and called for public awareness work to emphasise the importance of peat to the industry and economy.