Wines of Western Australia (WoWA) has appointed Eloise Jarvis as program manager for the sustainability adoption, certification and promotion for Western Australian wine growers and producers project, through a co-funding partnership with Wine Australia.
The project aims to increase the adoption of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia certification and membership, through the provision of localised technical expertise and guidance. The project will also support broader Wine Australia sustainability programs in the region, aligning with environmental, social and governance (ESG) production and business needs.
WoWA CEO, Larry Jorgensen, said a goal of the Western Australian Wine Industry Strategic Plan 2024-34 is for Western Australia to be recognised by consumers as one of the top ten regions internationally for sustainable wine production.
“This project will develop a practical toolkit and pathway to support Western Australian wine producers in achieving sustainability recognition domestically and internationally,” said Jorgensen.
“The primary focus will be on supporting Western Australian wine producers to achieve Sustainable Winegrowing Australia certification.”
Jarvis has over 25 years of experience as a winemaker, educator, and consultant. She is a graduate of the Wine Australia Future Leaders program and is currently delivering the Wine Australia Next Crop program in Margaret River.
Previously, as Sustainability Engagement Officer for Margaret River Wine Association, she implemented the region’s Sustainability Action Plan, boosting the adoption and certification of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia by producers.
With a strong commitment to advancing sustainability through collaborative projects and education, Jarvis’ leadership will further enhance and drive sustainable practices within the industry.
“It’s a privilege to be selected to deliver this project,” said Jarvis.
“I’m really excited by the opportunity to collaborate with each wine region’s grape growers and wine producers and our stakeholders to increase awareness, engagement and adoption of environmental, social and governance practices that will help create a prosperous and resilient wine community.”
A key element of the project is to overcome barriers to the adoption of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia within Western Australia’s wine regions.
The voluntary national sustainability program provides a framework for producers to meet sustainability standards, improve their practices and demonstrate this to protect businesses from changing market requirements.
The project will begin immediately and continue until 30 June 2025.
Wine Australia general manager research and innovation, Dr Paul Smith, said certification of sustainable growing and production practices are increasingly important to maintain access in international markets.
“Additionally, adopting sustainable practices makes good business sense. Sustainable Winegrowing Australia assists the sector to track business efficiencies, identify opportunities for improvement and increase market access,” said Smith.
“We are pleased to be supporting WoWA on this important project.”
