South Africa Wine releases strategic ESG roadmap

South Africa Wine (SA Wine) has released an environmental, social and governance (ESG) roadmap aimed at positioning the country's wine industry as the 'most trusted wine industry by leading in sustainability, equity and transparency' over the next 30 years.

- Glenneis Kriel

Gerard Martin, research, development and innovation executive at SA Wine, told Farmer's Weekly that ESG is no longer regarded as a compliance exercise, but as "a strategic roadmap to a resilient, competitive and future-ready wine industry".

"Globally, sustainability has become a prerequisite for market access, especially in key regions such as the EU, UK and Canada, where due diligence regulations and sustainability standards are tightening rapidly," he said.

"By positioning South Africa as a leader in ethical, sustainable wine production, the framework helps secure current market opportunities while preparing us for a rapidly evolving global landscape."

The roadmap builds on the sustainability foundation already established in the sector.