The African Wine Industry: A Global Leader In Sustainability
Africa Global News Publication
Many of the best wines around the globe are produced in Africa, and South Africa ranks number seven among the world’s largest wine-producing countries, along with Italy and France. However, this isn’t the only accomplishment of Africa’s wine industries. The wine industry in Africa is also unique for being a global leader in sustainability, as well as making large contributions towards wildlife preservation. By setting the standard so high, Africa will influence other industries to quickly follow suit.
Sustainable Farming
Sustainability is more important than ever in our current climate, and industries leading the way towards eco-consciousness are doing the entire globe a favour. One such country to take a stand has been South Africa, which implemented guidelines for sustainability within the wine industry as early as 1998. These guidelines were set in place by the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) scheme, which wineries must adhere to in order to be deemed sustainable. By following these guidelines, the wineries are given a seal, which shows that they meet the standards. The guidelines address topics such as how wastewater is managed, the use of resources, and limiting the number of harmful pesticides used. Sustainability also addresses the way in which wines are stored and transported. By making sure that products are packed in the most efficient way possible, this helps to cut down on the number of trucks on the road and carbon emissions.
Habitat Conservation Efforts
The IPW has also partnered with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to put in place specific guidelines which address habitat conservation. In South Africa, 95% of wineries are found in the Cape. However, this area is also home to two unique biodiversity hotspots, the likes of which are not found anywhere else in the world. Due to this, the wine industry has gone to great lengths to conserve these unique habitats. Working with the WWF, wine farmers make sure they implement biodiversity-friendly practices, and wines produced using such measures are given a special seal by the WWF.
The Benefits
Not only are South Africa’s practices benefitting the local environment, but they’re helping the economy as well. It is reported that 10% of South Africa’s GDP has consistently come from the wine industry since 2003. The wine industry in Africa also has the potential to influence other sectors and markets around the globe, and reports are showing that organic wine is on the rise, taking up 5% of the global marketplace. This figure shows how sustainability is quickly gaining popularity within the wine industry. Eco-consciousness in the wine industry also has many social benefits. By following the guidelines of the IPW, this assures a better relationship with workers, local communities and consumers.
Sustainability in the wine industry is the way of the future, and Africa is clearly in the lead, going to great lengths to assure a quality product that is cultivated in the least harmful way possible. By setting the standard so high, other industries will hopefully be quick to follow suit, and ultimately this will result in a greener and healthier environment on a global scale.
By Jacqueline Knowles
Africa Global News Publication
