Sustainable Rum Production
Ozama Rum Links Its Production and Revenue to River Restoration Efforts
Adam Harrie — April 6, 2026
Ozama Rum has introduced a sustainable rum production model that links its manufacturing process and revenue sharing to environmental and community programs in the Dominican Republic.
Founded by former baseball player David Ortiz, the brand draws inspiration from the Ozama River and supports its restoration through a '2% for the Ozama' program, which commits a portion of annual proceeds to environmental cleanup and community development projects. These initiatives focus on improving access to clean water, education, housing, and infrastructure in the surrounding areas.
The production process uses renewable energy, primarily from bagasse, a recycled sugarcane byproduct. Additional byproducts, such as carbon dioxide and residual materials, are reused for agricultural purposes. The business model reflects a broader trend toward incorporating sustainability into both production and funding systems in the spirits industry.
