“We’ve seen firsthand that we must take action now to protect our community and our people for the future,” states Linzi Gay, President of Clif Family Winery & Farm, highlighting the winery’s proactive stance. This commitment, born from adversity, has propelled Clif Family Winery to the forefront of sustainable practices within the wine industry, offering a compelling example for businesses worldwide.
Vineyard landscape at Clif Family Winery in Napa Valley
Rooted in Sustainability: The Brand Ethos of Clif Family Winery
From its inception, protecting the environment has been integral to Clif Family Winery & Farm’s identity. Co-founders Gary Erickson and Kit Crawford, also founders of Clif Bar & Company, have instilled a deep-seated mission that permeates every aspect of the winery, from vineyard management to product creation.
“We craft unique, regional wine and foods using practices that care for the Earth and support sustainable and organic farming,” explains Gay, encapsulating the brand’s core values. The “Think Like a Tree” philosophy encourages employees to emulate nature’s efficiency – embracing renewable energy, waste recycling, and contributing positively to their environment. This holistic approach is evident in Clif Family Winery’s certifications, including 100% CCOF organic certification and Napa Green Vineyard certification, reinforcing their dedication to eco-conscious winemaking. Their commitment to the SME Climate Hub further solidifies their proactive role in global climate action.
Clif Family Winery's organic vineyard certification
Concrete Steps Towards Emission Reduction at Clif Family Winery
Leveraging tools like the SME Climate Hub’s Business Carbon Calculator, Clif Family Winery & Farm has meticulously analyzed their emission sources, establishing clear accountability for their reduction targets. Currently prioritizing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, the winery has implemented innovative strategies to minimize their environmental footprint.
One key initiative is enrolling in MCE’s 100% Deep Green Power program, ensuring that all energy supplied to the winery originates from renewable Californian wind and solar power. Furthermore, Clif Family Winery has invested in on-site solar panels for their new office and tasting room, directly generating clean energy. In a nod to traditional, sustainable practices, they’ve also reintroduced sheep to their vineyards for natural weed control and fertilization, significantly reducing reliance on fuel-intensive machinery. Gay identifies fuel consumption by vineyard vehicles and tractors as a primary source of Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, making these changes particularly impactful.
This dedication to sustainability has also sparked innovation in product development. Clif Family Winery’s Solar Grown Honey product line, sourced from pollinator-friendly solar farms, exemplifies this creativity. This unique offering not only reduces emissions but also supports vital pollinator habitats, showcasing a multi-faceted approach to environmental responsibility.
Looking ahead, Clif Family Winery is extending its sustainability efforts to Scope 3 emissions. “We’re just now setting the foundation for the future,” Gay emphasizes, highlighting their 2022 plans to collaborate with co-packers and supply chain partners. By establishing emissions baselines and working collaboratively, Clif Family Winery aims to drive reductions throughout their entire value chain.
Solar Grown Honey product line from Clif Family Winery
Remembering the “Why”: Climate Action as a Necessity
For Clif Family Winery & Farm, climate action isn’t a hypothetical consideration; it’s a direct response to the realities of a changing environment. “As an agricultural company with wine as our primary product, we have seen the impacts of climate change firsthand with changing weather and the increased number and intensity of wildfires,” Gay reiterates.
Clif Family Winery understands the critical importance of proactive measures. They recognize that safeguarding the future of their business is inextricably linked to protecting the planet. By embracing sustainable practices and advocating for industry-wide change, Clif Family Winery & Farm not only ensures their own longevity but also inspires a broader movement towards environmental responsibility within the wine industry and beyond. Their journey serves as a powerful reminder that climate action is not just good for the planet – it’s essential for business.
