DELANO, CA - At a time when the fresh produce industry is facing challenges from major environmental causes such as drought, the push toward sustainability has become even more prevalent as we seek to band together to conquer these hurdles. Taking strong action, California-based Columbine® Vineyards announced that is has become Sustainably Grown Certified, representing the significant positive adjustments the table grape grower has made in preserving resources and limiting environmental impacts.
“This new certification brings commitment and accountability to Columbine Vineyard’s existing growing practices,” said Vincent Sorena, Vice President of Compliance at Columbine Vineyards. “When shoppers see the new Sustainably Grown certification mark on our Holiday® grapes this season, they can be confident they are choosing a brand that prioritizes environmental, social, and economic sustainability.”
The official certification comes through SCS Global Services, a leader in sustainability standards and third-party certification, according to a press release.
Setting strict standards and initiatives, the program creates a strong framework for environmental stewardships and social responsibility achieved by Columbine Vineyards through its achievements such as water conservation, through which the grower saved 843 million gallons; achieved Styrofoam reduction of 54 percent; and carbon sequestration of 5,200 metric tons, the equivalent of 1,140 cars off the road annually.
Due to its commitment, Columbine Vineyards will now feature the SCS Kingfisher Sustainably Grown certification mark on all of its grape brands, including Holiday grapes.
“I have been working in sustainable agriculture for a long time now, and it is rare to see the level of dedication that the Columbine Vineyards team brought to their recent Sustainably Grown audit,” explained Kevin Warner, Manager of Sustainable Agriculture at SCS Global. “They committed ten solid months to audit preparation and integrated the best practices of sustainability into every facet of their operation. What gets me really excited is the impact they are having in terms of environmental protection and the fair treatment of farmworkers.”
Columbine Vineyard’s new certification focuses on three key areas of responsibility:
- Environmental Stewardship - An emphasis on water conservation, including a comprehensive approach to irrigation management, maximizing water efficiency with the latest technology and impeccable ground level implementation. Columbine also focuses on soil health using an innovative soil-fortifying initiative to introduce diversified bacteria and fungi on the microbiological level to revive dead soil
- Social Responsibility - Growing safe, quality food while promoting farmer welfare and giving employees access to health resources ensures a safe, hygienic working environment. Also included is a COVID-19 vaccine accessibility program
- Economic Stability - Columbine Vineyards continues to explore how the community interacts with the business, and how the business interacts with the community in order to support future generations of farmers
This new sustainability certification comes ahead of the Holiday grapes’ 2021 season that takes place from August through December. Already popular with consumers, the addition of the certification seal will give them confidence in their purchases.
How will Columbine Vineyards continue to drive forward its commitment to sustainable practices? AndNowUKnow will bring you the latest news.
