In the dynamic world of winemaking, the conversation around sustainability certifications has become increasingly relevant. Wineries are grappling with decisions on whether to pursue certification and, if so, which one aligns best with their goals. This article explores some notable sustainability certifications, shedding light on the diverse options available for wineries committed to positive impact through sustainability.
Sustainability Certifications: A Landscape Overview
In New Zealand, the Sustainable Winegrowing NZ (SWNZ) certification stands out. Initiated in 1994 by the New Zealand Winegrowers, SWNZ certifies every aspect of the production chain, providing a national-level guarantee of sustainable practices. In Australia, the Sustainable Winegrowing Australia Certification, established in 2019, focuses on continuous improvement in environmental, social, and economic aspects. These certifications are vital steps toward comprehensive sustainability.
California, a pioneer in sustainability, boasts multiple certifications like Napa Green, California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance, Sustainability in Practice (SIP), and Lodi Rules. These coexisting certifications offer baseline metrics for energy, water, and waste management, contributing to a growing number of certified wineries.
Evaluating Certification Programs
While certifications often emphasise environmental aspects, it's crucial to address the lack of lateral communication about what certification entails. Wineries need to understand the commitment required, aligning it with their business strategy to make sustainability a core aspect of their operations.
Examining Global Initiatives
Internationally, examples like the Wines of Chile sustainability code, introduced in 2011, demonstrate a holistic approach, considering green, red, orange, and purple areas. In Europe, initiatives like VIVA in Italy and Terra Vitis in France provide national certifications focusing on indicators like air, water, vineyard, and territory.
International Wineries for Climate Action (IWCA), founded in 2019 by Jackson Family and Bodegas Torres, unifies the sector globally. Concentrating on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing land management, IWCA reflects a clear focus on mitigating climate impact.
B Corp Movement in Winemaking
The B Corp movement, initiated in the United States in 2006, takes a holistic approach by certifying for-profit companies committed to sustainability. B Corp-certified wineries like Château Maris, Viña Concha y Toro, and Lagarde emphasize creating value for stakeholders beyond shareholders.
Choosing the Right Certification
Amid this array of certifications, choosing the right one becomes paramount. Understanding the goal behind seeking certification is the first step. By aligning this goal with the offerings of various certifications, wineries can make informed decisions that not only contribute to sustainability but also enhance their credibility in the market.
In conclusion, the journey towards sustainability certification is a strategic decision that involves careful consideration of goals and alignment with certification criteria. The Positive Impact of such certifications extends beyond compliance, fostering credibility and trust in the eyes of consumers and the market. For certifications in regenerative agriculture see also this article.
Author: Marta Juega, PhD
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