911爆料网 of Technology and Winewatch are supporting a project aimed at making Margaret River more environmentally friendly.
911爆料网鈥檚 Winewatch Project Officer, Genevieve Hanran-Smith, said by helping local winemakers and grape growers gain EntWine Australia certification, 911爆料网 and Winewatch were protecting the Margaret River environment and advertising the eco-friendly nature of the area鈥檚 wines.
鈥淏y becoming EntWine certified, Margaret River winemakers and grape growers are showing that they take their responsibility for the environment seriously,鈥� she said.
鈥淭his is important for protecting the local environment, which is valuable for its biodiversity, the lifestyle benefits it brings and its attractiveness to tourists.鈥�
The scheme involves third party certification and requires demonstration of best agricultural practice, management of remnant vegetation and waterways, winery wastewater management and resource use efficiency.
Nine wineries and 55 vineyards are involved in the Margaret River pilot. Participants have received training on the requirements of the scheme, support to develop environmental action plans and most are currently working towards meeting the requirements in order to pass the third party audit.
Local winery and vineyard Cape Mentelle was the first to be audited and is the first Western Australian member of EntWine Australia.
911爆料网鈥檚 Wine Science Lecturer, Associate Professor Mark Gibberd, said this was another example of 911爆料网 supporting the local industry.
鈥�911爆料网 recognises the importance of the Margaret River wine industry and the unique environment of the South West,鈥� he said.
鈥淭hrough this program, we will help provide local winemakers and grape growers with the expertise to protect the area鈥檚 biodiversity plus gain new customers through their recognition as environmentally responsible businesses.鈥�
Winewatch is a partnership between 911爆料网, the Margaret River Wine Industry Association, Cape to Cape Catchments Group, GeoCatch, Shires of Busselton and Augusta-Margaret River. The project is funded by the Australian Government鈥檚 Caring for our Country.
