.webp)
Whether you’re living in Napa, Sonoma, Alameda County or the San Francisco Bay area, Californians are among North America's most heavily affected when it comes to climate change. Whether it be wildfires, droughts, heatwaves, impacts on agriculture, biodiversity, or ecosystems, all of these issues particularly affect wineries and their supporting industries. Wine and wineries form an integral part of Californian identity and heritage; to many, a good wine is synonymous with California.
It's for these reasons that many winery leaders are now looking into more sustainable practices, and for this reason, B-Corp certification is starting to become an ideal option. Organizations and business leaders do not just decide to become a B-Corp because of environmental sustainability, but also because of how the B-Corp certification incorporates many facets of conscious capitalism. The people (employees, suppliers, customers) are also central to the movement. Its framework and principles encourage and cultivate an organizational structure not just focused on pure profit but on People, Planet, and Profit.
Wineries that look to become B-Corp certified would typically look at these areas:
• Workers' rights,
• Community engagement,
• Environmental impact,
• Customer relations.
From our experience with some of our B-Corp clients, here are some examples of what you’d focus on:
Environmental Impact: The winery would likely adopt more sustainable viticulture practices, focusing on reducing water usage, minimizing chemical inputs, and perhaps transitioning to organic farming. Efforts to reduce the carbon footprint, such as using renewable energy sources and improving waste management, would be emphasized.
Worker Welfare: Certification would necessitate a focus on the well-being of employees. This could mean ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, opportunities for professional growth, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
Community Engagement: As a B Corp, the winery would actively contribute to the local community. This could involve supporting local charities, investing in community development, or sponsoring cultural and heritage events that celebrate winemaking traditions.
Supply Chain Management: The winery would need to scrutinize its supply chain, ensuring that suppliers also adhere to sustainable and ethical practices. This could mean sourcing from local grape growers who practice sustainable agriculture or choosing environmentally friendly materials for packaging.
Benefits of B Corp Certification for Wineries:
Brand Differentiation and Visibility: B Corp certification is a widely recognized symbol of a company’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Customers are increasingly looking for socially and environmentally responsible products that align with their values.
Credibility and Reputation: B Corp certification can help improve your organization's reputation and build customer trust by demonstrating a commitment to social and environmental impact.
Organizational Wellbeing: Meeting the standards needed to pass the B-Corp certification ensures that an organization considers and implements key processes that cultivate an environment focused on the well-being of the employees.
Knowing that you’re contributing to supporting a sustainable economy: Whether it be the San Francisco Bay Area, Sonoma County, or Napa Valley, if you’re following B-Corp standards, you're going to contribute to a more sustainable economy & help ensure the wellbeing of fellow humans both locally and worldwide.
The undertaking of becoming a Certified B-Corp Winery is by no means a simple one; it’s a serious challenge, but many are embracing it. Here are a few that are certified:
Eco Terreno - https://ecoterreno.com/
River Road Family Vineyards and Winery - https://riverroadvineyards.com/
Bonterra Organic Estates - https://www.bonterra.com/
O'Neil Vintners & Distillers - https://oneillwine.com/
Spottswoode - https://spottswoode.com/
Clif Family Winery & Farm - https://cliffamily.com/
If becoming a certified B-Corp right now is not viable for you, you don’t have to be a B-Corp to work with one. You can help extend your capacity to help create a circular economy and impact our world by working with them. If you need an
IT provider, give us a nudge 😊
