SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN CHAMPAGNE
Nicole Langen Fotografie
Past
Until quite recently, the champagne sector did not collectively work towards a sustainable future.
That has changed since 2005. The Comité Champagne then introduced a sustainability standard and this has led to many improvements in the field of sustainable development in Champagne.
What has been accomplished in the past 15 years? E.g.
- 20% lower CO2 footprint
- 50% less use of phytosanitary products (medicines against plant diseases).
- 90% of industrial waste is recycled and recovered.
- 100% of the waste water is treated and recovered.
- 20% of the area has some form of environmental certification.
Champagne bottles have become much lighter: they now weigh 835 grams each instead of 900 grams.
Present
In 2015, a new, official certification for champagne winegrowers was launched: Viticulture Durable and
Champagne (VDC) or
Sustainable Viticulture in Champagne.
This certification is based on three pillars: Biodiversity, CO2 and water.
More than 43% of the vineyards now have a VDC certificate. There are also wine growers who meet other quality standards or who choose to work in a sustainable or biodynamic way, but who have chosen not to opt for an official certification.
To obtain the VDC certificate, 120 points must be met. The aim is to reduce as much as possible the pressure of viticulture on the natural environment (air, climate, water, soil, biodiversity and landscapes).
Future
The champagne sector
is committed to creating a sustainable future.
Objectives of Comité Champagne
Herbicides will no longer be used in 2025 (0%).
In 2030, the entire sector will have an environmental certification (100%).
In 2050, the CO2 footprint will be reduced by 75%.
Important elements such as housing, transport and packaging are also included in the objectives.
In addition, the champagne sector encourages moderate and responsible alcohol consumption. Knowledge, self-control and pleasure should remain in balance.
(Source: Comité Champagne)
Video about sustainable development in Champagne (source: Comité Champagne)
Comité Champagne