# Heriot-Watt University brewing and distilling research > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/heriot-watt-university-brewing-and-distilling-research > Updated: 2026-10-15T10:21:13.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Heriot-Watt University is advancing research and infrastructure within the brewing and distilling sectors. The university has proposed the construction of a Centre for Advanced Brewing and Distilling (CABD), seeking £35 million in funding to expand upon its existing International Centre for Brewing and Distilling. This new facility is projected to contribute £53.4 million annually to the Scottish economy and support approximately 1,570 jobs through research into low-carbon technologies and production methods. In tandem with infrastructure developments, university researchers have identified potential methods to improve environmental sustainability in whisky production. A study suggests that increasing the alcohol strength of the wash during fermentation could reduce emissions by up to 16% per litre of pure alcohol produced. This process change could also significantly decrease liquid waste, specifically reducing pot ale volumes by 55% and spent lees by over 30%, though researchers noted that further study is required regarding yeast performance and flavor development. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-15: Heriot-Watt University research suggests stronger fermentation could cut whisky emissions A Heriot-Watt University study found that increasing wash strength in Scotch whisky production could cut emissions by 16% and significantly reduce liquid waste volumes. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/heriot-watt-university-research-suggests-stronger-fermentation-could-cut-whisky-emissions ### 2026-10-12: Heriot-Watt University brewing centre projected to add £53.4m to Scottish economy Heriot-Watt University's proposed brewing and distilling centre could add £53.4 million annually to the Scottish economy and support over 1,500 jobs, according to BiGGAR Economics. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/heriot-watt-university-brewing-centre-projected-to-add-534m-to-scottish-economy --- Cite as: Heriot-Watt University brewing and distilling research. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/heriot-watt-university-brewing-and-distilling-research