SUPPLIERS
well , to see whether they ’ re aligned with our values ,” Druart says .
“ This is an important business model for the future ,” she adds . “ We want to be the best in the world and the best for the world . Consumers care more and more about who makes their food and drink . How those companies are inspiring social change , how they treat their employees , and are they taking care of the world or trashing it ?”
CREATING SOLUTIONS TO THE CLIMATE CRISIS
Jackson Family Wines in Santa Rosa , CA , has long been dedicated to decreasing its carbon footprint . The company in 2021 unveiled its Rooted for Good : Roadmap to 2030 climate action and social impact initiative . It ’ s the most ambitious climate action in the establishment ’ s 40−year history .
Rooted for Good is a bold comprehensive set of goals and initiatives designed to lead climate solutions , create positive social impact and support the Jackson Family ’ s long-term vision for a sustainable future for its wine community .
The plan consists of four key focus areas :
Create Positive Social Impact : Build a workplace where diversity , equity and inclusion thrive , while empowering its employees to foster more resilient communities .
Climate Action + Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions : Cut its greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 and become climate positive by 2050 , without purchasing offsets .
Land Conservation + Farming : Transition 100 % of its estate vineyard properties to regenerative farming practices in the next decade . This also includes protecting and preserving critical wildlife and watershed habitats in and around its properties , cultivating more biodiversity and supporting the ecosystems surrounding its vineyards .
Smart Water Management : Jackson Family Wines will innovate and adopt smart water management practices in its vineyards and wineries to ensure they continue to conserve water , improve water quality and enhance the local watersheds .
“ All the recent consumer research we ’ ve seen shows that consumers are looking for ways to support companies and brands that share their same values , including sustainability and being eco-conscious ,” says Sean Carroll , Jackson Family Wines ’ director of communications , social impact and environmental sustainability .
“ We are proud of our sustainability and climate action leadership and hope that consumers will choose to purchase our wines because they know they ’ re going to enjoy a bottle of wine that is help-
WHOLESALER ’ S SIDE SUSTAINABILITY AS A PRIORITY
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America ( WSWA ) in 2022 conducted an internal membership survey with a two-fold purpose : to gauge the current state of sustainable practices within the wholesaler tier and the broader industry , and to highlight the already significant achievements
Kay Yoder made in embracing eco-friendly initiatives among members .
The survey yielded striking results . First off , it revealed that sustainability has emerged as a priority for most , with over 80 % of respondents emphasizing the importance of the industry adopting more sustainable practices . Additionally , more than 65 % of those surveyed had already installed electric vehicle chargers at their facilities , showcasing a firm commitment to eco-conscious transportation solutions .
Further , a substantial majority had invested in energyefficient and solar lighting systems , showcasing a dedication to reducing energy consumption and underscoring wholesalers ' increasing commitment to sustainability .
“ Sustainability ensures the wellbeing and preservation of our planet for future generations . So everyone needs to start adapting these practices today so that we can minimize our footprint in the long run ,” says Kay Yoder , vice president , environmental health and safety for wholesaler Southern Glazer ’ s Wine & Spirits . “ My philosophy is that nature isn ’ t a place to visit — it ’ s our home , and we all have a responsibility to do the right thing .”
Southern Glazer ’ s strives to set standards and lead the industry forward on sustainability initiatives . The company has installed LED lighting with smart controls across more than 11 million square feet of warehouse space , partnered with best-in-class recycling companies to recycle electronic waste , aluminum and everything coming from their facilities , are transitioning to low-flow toilets and faucets to reduce energy and water usage in their newer buildings , and are investing in electric vehicles to lower carbon emissions .
“ Another thing is that Southern Glazer ’ s has over 42 green teams in our various markets . By establishing green teams , we ’ re empowering our family members to educate and inspire each other to initiate and or volunteer in some local community events , like planting shade trees near parks , planting community vegetable gardens or carpooling programs to and from work ,” explains Yoder . “ Every year since 2021 , our volunteers have hundreds of green team events around the country . It just became part of our DNA and family values and is something that I ’ m really proud of .” — KS
11 2023 Sustainability Guide