Austria has firmly established itself as a global leader in environmentally conscious viticulture, with the country’s wine industry making significant strides towards sustainability.
As of December 2024, nearly 12,000 hectares of Austrian vineyards—representing a substantial 27% of the nation’s total vine area—are cultivated in accordance with the “Sustainable Austria” certification program. This certification, which celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2024, highlights the ongoing commitment of Austrian winegrowers to protect the environment while producing world-class wines.
A Decade of Sustainable Growth
Launched in 2015 by the Austrian Winegrowers’ Association (Österreichischer Weinbauverband) in collaboration with scientists, the “Sustainable Austria” program has grown exponentially in recent years. The area under certification has more than doubled since 2019, a remarkable achievement that underscores the increasing commitment of Austria’s wine industry to sustainable practices. Currently, 655 wineries are certified under the program, which is now responsible for managing nearly 12,000 hectares of vineyards. In addition to “Sustainable Austria,” Austria also leads the world in organic viticulture, with 25% of its vineyards certified organic as of November 2024, according to preliminary figures.
This growth is part of a larger shift in the global wine industry towards sustainability, with Austria setting benchmarks for other wine-producing nations. The “Sustainable Austria” label is gaining international recognition, particularly in key export markets such as Scandinavia, Canada, and the United States. As Chris Yorke, CEO of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board, notes, the environmental credentials of Austrian wines are a key selling point, enhancing their appeal to consumers who are increasingly aware of the ecological impact of their purchasing decisions.
Key Features of the “Sustainable Austria” Certification
The “Sustainable Austria” certification is an independent, scientifically-based program that evaluates a wide range of sustainability practices across the entire production process. The program assesses around 380 specific measures across nine categories, including quality, social factors, economic factors, climate, raw materials, energy, soil, biodiversity, and water. To achieve certification, wineries must meet stringent environmental and social criteria, ensuring that their practices are both ecologically responsible and economically viable.
The sustainability criteria are rigorous, and wineries are evaluated on a traffic-light system across each category. In order to receive certification, a winery must score a green rating in at least seven of the nine categories, with no more than two yellow ratings. The certification process is overseen by independent inspection bodies such as LACON, agroVet, and Austria Bio Garantie, which ensure that wineries are adhering to the program’s strict guidelines.
Concrete Results and Measurable Improvements
The results of “Sustainable Austria” are clear, with wineries making tangible strides toward reducing their environmental impact. For example, 77% of vineyards under the certification are now cultivated without insecticides, and glyphosate use is completely banned. In addition, 83% of vineyards are herbicide-free, a notable increase from 70% in 2019. These efforts are helping to preserve biodiversity, improve soil health, and reduce the environmental footprint of wine production.
The adoption of renewable energy sources has also surged. In 2024, 77% of certified wineries are using renewable energy, up from 56% in 2019. This includes photovoltaic systems, biomass energy, and green electricity, all of which contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient wine production process. Some wineries have even achieved complete energy self-sufficiency, further minimizing their environmental impact.
Moreover, the certification program encourages wineries to implement long-term sustainability measures that benefit not only the environment but also their social and economic practices. For instance, over two-thirds of producers now own root cellars or energy-efficient buildings rated A, A+, or A++ in terms of energy performance. This focus on energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure helps wineries lower their operating costs while minimizing their carbon footprint.
Biodiversity and Soil Health
In line with global trends towards sustainability, Austrian winegrowers are also paying close attention to biodiversity and soil health. “Sustainable Austria”-certified vineyards are encouraged to adopt farming practices that promote soil conservation and biodiversity. By avoiding the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides, wineries help to preserve the health of their vineyards and the surrounding ecosystem. These practices not only improve the quality of the wine but also contribute to the overall health of the landscape, ensuring that future generations of winemakers can continue to produce high-quality wine in a thriving, sustainable environment.
A Model for the Global Wine Industry
Austria’s success in sustainable viticulture serves as an inspiring model for other wine-producing regions worldwide. By focusing on environmentally conscious practices, Austrian winegrowers have demonstrated that sustainability can go hand in hand with high-quality wine production. As consumers increasingly demand products that align with their values, Austria’s commitment to sustainability will continue to position its wines as some of the most environmentally friendly and socially responsible options on the global market.
Chris Yorke’s observation that “Sustainable Austria” is a key factor in Austrian wines’ global appeal is echoed by the rising demand for organic and sustainably produced wines. The combination of high environmental standards and a focus on quality makes Austrian wine an attractive choice for eco-conscious consumers around the world.
The Road Ahead: Continued Progress and Challenges
While the achievements of the “Sustainable Austria” program are impressive, there is still room for further progress. The certification process encourages continuous improvement, and Austrian wineries are continually striving to enhance their sustainability efforts. The program’s success is a testament to the dedication of Austrian winegrowers, but it also reflects a broader global shift towards more sustainable production practices in all sectors.
As the wine industry faces the challenges of climate change, shifting consumer preferences, and increased competition, Austria’s commitment to sustainability will be a critical factor in maintaining its position as a leading wine producer. The success of the “Sustainable Austria” certification shows that environmentally conscious practices not only benefit the planet but also help ensure the long-term viability of the industry.
Source: Austrian Wine Marketing Board