Greenopia, a research company that puts together "green guides," has declared Eel River Brewing Co. among the saintliest when it comes to green beer production. In a ranking system where four "Greenopia leafs" gains you entry to hopsy sainthood, Eel River earned three. Here's what Greenopia said:

Eel River is a small craft brew that only produces organic beers. This is preferable for the environment because organically grown inputs do not require the usage of hazardous pesticides and fertilizers. Traditional pesticides and fertilizers can lead to eutrophication and ocean acidification. Eel River operates in a building made with recycled and reclaimed fixtures and powers its facilities with 100% Biogas. Eel River also has slightly above average environmental reporting although more environmental metric reporting would be appreciated.

Hey, that's cool.

But the Eel's in some broad, odd company. Greenopia chose "15 of the largest breweries in the world" to rate: Anheuser-Busch, Bison, Butte Creek, Corona, Eel River, Foster's, Guinness, Heineken, Labatt Blue, Molson-Coors, New Belgium Brewery, Sam Adams, Samuel Smith, Sierra Nevada, Tecate.

Not to detract from the well-deserved accolades, but ... Eel River's among the largest breweries in the world? Is it? Just how many breweries are there in the world, anyway? Well, according to Beers of the World's online directory of breweries, there are 4,811. Just a random click onto one of those introduced me to Meantime Brewing Co. in London -- which happens to have been the first British 'Fairtrade' brewer, says the entry. And some commenter on Greenopia's site said what about Brooklyn Brewery which powers its operations entirely with wind.

At any rate, Huzzah to the Eel! Bottoms up to the Blonde! The Triple! The Raven's Eye!