Napa Valley commits to lowering carbon footprint

The Napa Valley Vintners has become the first American wine trade association to sign up to the Porto Protocols and commit to lowering the region’s carbon footprint.

The board of directors voted to join the effort on 27 June and is in addition to the ‘Napa Green’ programme which aims to lower greenhouse emissions through lower water and energy use/waste in Napa wineries.

The Porto Protocol was established last year by Adrian Bridge, CEO of Taylor’s Port, and encourages companies, of any industry not just wine, to commit to make greater contributions to mitigate and combat climate change.

Robin Lail, US representative of the Porto Protocol and a Napa Valley winemaker, said: “As new signatories to the Proto Protocol, the NVV has further broadened their commitment to environmental stewardship.

“Just like the NVV’s ambitious goal to have all their eligible members in the Napa Green programme by the end of 2020, the Proto Protocol is another important step in addressing climate change.”

Bridge added: “I am delighted that the NVV have joined the Porto Protocol as they are an organization that has always taken a far-sighted view of environmental matters.

“Apart from being a commitment to help, The Porto Protocol serves as a platform to share best practices. Members of the NVV have much to share with fellow vintners around the world and I look forward to their experiences helping to accelerate the speed with which the global wine industry combats climate change issues.”