Sustainable Vineyard Developments Worldwide

Sustainable agricultural practices are becoming increasingly recognized, adopted and integrated within different sectors of agriculture. Viticulture and wine production have been at the forefront of these developments largely due to the nature of the business and its historic ecological stewardship. Recent surveys have shown that the majority of growers and producers in the wine industry see sustainability as an important part of an overall business plan. However, many also see that the adoption of sustainable practices must also enhance economic viability, which in turn should facilitate generational potential in their businesses. The wine industry must also help address issues associated with definitions, certification, and public understanding of industry practices in organic and biodynamic production, integrated pest management, carbon neutrality, and water foot printing. These processes will continue to require research, innovation, and efficient timing of technology transfer to increase adaptive capacity and reduce economic and social vulnerability in the overall scheme of sustainability. Work presented at XXXIV World Congress of Vine and Wine, 20-27 June 2011, Porto, Portugal