About
The SWR Sustainable Viticulture Protocol is a principles-based framework to help growers demonstrate sustainable practices whether they use organic, biodynamic or conventional farming approaches. The SVP will be the centre of an on-going change management process away from intensive chemical use in the wine industry, towards a more sustainable, carbon-positive viticultural approach.
Internally, the protocol will enable the sharing of best practices between its member organisations, and will develop tools to make change happen in different wine growing environments. Externally, the SVP will aim to inject fact and reality into debates around vineyard practices; tackling unhelpful simplifications, and promote a nuanced awareness of what good, sustainable, responsible viticulture looks like.
Why it matters
Environmental practices in vineyards are crucial for wine sustainability. While organic and biodynamic methods are valuable, they are not the only ways to reduce environmental impact. These methods can still involve toxic chemicals like copper and may not suit all growing areas due to potential yield drops.
In recent years, regenerative viticulture has gained attention as a means to not only sustain but also repair the damage caused by conventional agriculture. However, without a clear definition, there is a risk of greenwashing. SWR aims to clarify what sustainable and regenerative viticulture practices look like, regardless of the techniques used.
Our goal
The SVP aims to provide a collaborative roadmap for transitioning away from intensive chemical use in the vineyard, towards a more sustainable, carbon-positive approach that builds toward viable regenerative practices and outcomes.
Internally, the SVP will facilitate the sharing of best practices among SWR member organisations, developing practical tools to enable change across diverse wine-growing environments. Our objective is to create a proven spectrum of good practice, share those across members, and review progress annually.
Externally, the SVP will inject fact and reality into debates around vineyard practices, tackling unhelpful simplifications, and promote a nuanced awareness of what good, sustainable, responsible viticulture looks like. The SVP will also showcase examples of best practice from members of the Protocol.
Our approach
SWR will facilitate the implementation of the SVP through the following activities:
- Conduct surveys: We gather insights on practices and inputs at a regional level, with anonymised findings shared across our membership base.
- Host webinars and events: We bring together members, academics, and scientists to explore challenges and develop practical solutions.
- Produce best practice guides: Based on insights from members and experts, we create tools and guides to support the adoption of sustainable practices
- Facilitate cross-sector learning: We explore lessons from other agricultural sectors to inform practices that reduce chemical use and increase regenerative techniques.
- Engage with policy makers: Over time, we will work to ensure that the realities of sustainable viticulture are reflected in policy discussions, collaborating with credible partners to influence decision-makers.
Benefits to participation
Demonstrate responsible, sustainable practices
transparently through a globally recognized framework.
Respond to industry and consumer scrutiny
by showing alignment with an expert-informed approach to responsible viticulture.
Dispel myths and misinformation
with credible, science-based insights on sustainable viticulture.
Create a level playing field
in which organic, biodynamic, and conventional approaches can work together to reduce use of all chemicals.
Collaborate in confidence
with other growers to share challenges, exchange solutions, and foster joint innovation.
Public recognition and visibility
within SWR’s communications channels, showcasing progress and best practice in sustainable viticulture.
Looking ahead
The SVP was launched in July 2024, marking a significant milestone in SWR’s efforts to address sustainability in viticulture. Moving forward, SWR will continue to engage our members through ongoing consultations, webinars, surveys, and discussions to better understand current practices and challenges. These findings will be shared exclusively with members.
As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, a research paper will be published, offering insights from related agricultural sectors that can inform vineyard operations
Participants
Treasury Wine Estates
Ste. Michelle Wine Estates
VSPT Wine Group
Cloudy Bay
Hochschule Geisenheim University
Resources
Reports & documents
Access our comprehensive report on sustainable viticulture and our SVP informational document to explore the Sustainable Viticulture Protocol in more detail:
Webinars & podcasts
Explore our podcast and webinar recordings for in-depth discussions on sustainable viticulture, featuring insights from industry experts:
Take action
Interested in taking part of this transformative initiative? Learn more about the Sustainable Viticulture Protocol or join us today by contacting info@swroundtable.org.
