138: How making alcohol from trees could give rural Japan a buzz

Could drinking help the environment and rural communities? You might be surprised. Researchers in Japan have figured out how to make drinkable alcohol from wood, and the knock-on effects are much bigger than a hangover. This week, Alex K.T. Martin joins us to talk about the science — and sustainable process — behind the process that may bring cedar, oak and sakura to your next cocktail session.

Hosted by Jason Jenkins and produced by Dave Cortez.

On this episode:
Alex K.T. Martin: Articles | Twitter

Read more:
Wood spirits: How Japan made the world’s first liquor from trees (Alex K.T. Martin, The Japan Times)

Get in touch:
Send us feedback at deepdive@japantimes.co.jp. Support the show by rating, reviewing and sharing the episode with a friend if you’ve enjoyed it. And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter! For a transcript of the show, head to japantimes.co.jp.

Photo:
The huge trees that dot the Japanese countryside may be where you get your next cocktail. | JASON JENKINS