Impact Report

Agriculture accounts for approximately three-quarters of Australia’s water use*, but the local wine industry is doing its part to improve efficiency. Innovative monitoring tools and new drought-tolerant varieties are contributing to greater water use efficiency and helping Australian winegrowers produce world-class wines without contributing to overirrigation. Together, we are ensuring more water is left in our environment and waterways, where it belongs.

Native vegetation has become an important priority in Australia’s quest for a truly sustainable winegrowing industry. Wineries and vineyards are employing recognised agricultural practices to restore native flora, and beneficial insects, removing weeds, and protecting and enhancing existing ecosystems.

While reducing, reusing and recycling will always be the core, the vision has shifted to circularity, realising that waste can become alternative products and resources. Grape skins and stalks are being converted to compost. Electrolysis is being used to create cleaning products from winery wash-water. Even using different types of packaging, made with a higher proportion of recycled materials, can reduce waste.

Maintaining and increasing soil health ensures its continued ability to sustain life, both now and for future generations. Healthier soils mean, healthier vines. Innovation is helping our vineyards reach land and soil care milestones. Less heavy machinery in vineyards helps prevent soil compaction, allowing improved water infiltration and more efficient water use. Nutrient management systems, informed by a range of diagnostic tools, allow for greater precision of nutrient application and loss from the soil.

Energy efficient practices are one of the key tools in global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from impacting our environment.

In the Australian wine industry, there here has been a continued focus on innovation and, the adoption of energy-efficient practices and renewables. Every little bit helps, with measures ranging from adopting low energy LED lighting to the installation of solar panels.

Not only is fostering a sense of togetherness socially responsible, but it also creates positive awareness of the contribution that wineries and vineyards make within their communities.

Examples of member contribution ranges from donating to charities in their local communities, providing support to schools, sports and the arts. Plus, a range of giving back causes that includes staff volunteering and hosting community fundraising events.