06/25/2026
In Miami last summer, we met Serafin Morales Cruz from San Dionisio Ocotepec, Oaxaca. He was attending MEZCULTURE representing his family’s brand, mezcalalarii . He mentioned that he was trying to find funding to support the installation of a biodigester — a living system of microorganisms that turns the byproducts of agave spirits distillation into clean energy and natural fertilizer.
Every liter of potable Mezcal generates 10 to 15 liters of vinazas, an acidic liquid loaded with organic matter, ethanol residues, and heavy metals that can devastate local ecosystems. Studies have shown that these discharges can reduce soil fertility, pollute groundwater, and create foul odors that affect nearby communities.
Through the support of our individual donors, we were able to raise enough money that Serafin was able to realize his vision. The 30-cubic-meter-capacity bio-digester is processing approximately 500 liters of vinasse per day!
What you’re seeing in the pictures here is not Serafin’s project. This is the start of two bio-digesters we’re supporting, with the financial support of our friends 818 Tequila | Eight Reserve by 818 — one in Rio de Parras, Michoacan, the other in Chacala, Jalisco. These pictures show the work that mezcalero Isidro Rodriguez and his crew are putting in to prep Rio de Parras to receive the bio-digester from Biodigestores ARQUEA, the company that built and installed the model for Serafin. Follow along as systems are put into place to redirect 1,000 liters of waste a day!
