At EWGA Wines, sustainability isn’t just a goal; it’s woven into the fabric of our operations. We are dedicated to implementing practices that minimise our environmental impact, from using renewable energy sources to collaborating with like-minded wine producers. Our ongoing efforts to promote sustainable business practices can be explored in more detail here – our sustainability.
In 2022, our Managing Director, Adrian Moeckell, took part in the Eco-1 North West research and development project, organised by Lancaster University’s Management School. Through this initiative, Adrian worked closely with other business leaders in the North West and industry experts. Together, they identified key strategies that would enhance sustainability for companies like ours.
One major takeaway from the project was that achieving ISO accreditation would be a critical step forward, providing a structured framework for improving our environmental systems and practices. Inspired by this guidance, we embarked on a journey that has led us to our recent ISO 14001 accreditation – a great milestone that highlights our commitment to environmental responsibility.
What is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is an internationally recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). It provides a structured framework for organisations to develop processes that improve environmental performance and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. By achieving this accreditation, EWGA Wines joins an exclusive group of UK drinks companies that have demonstrated a serious commitment to sustainability and ongoing environmental improvements.
Why ISO 14001 Matters to EWGA Wines
For EWGA Wines, this accreditation is more than just a credential; it’s a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact. “We are thrilled to have achieved the ISO 14001 accreditation, which reflects our dedication to sustainability and green practices,” says Adrian Moeckell. “This accomplishment sets us apart, aligning perfectly with our core values of reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting the environment. It’s a step toward making a positive impact not just in the wine sector, but also in our local community.”
Our journey toward this certification was a collaborative effort that involved the support of HSE Advice UK, a Lancashire-based Health, Safety, and Compliance consultancy. Their expertise helped us navigate the complexities of the accreditation process and ensured we stayed true to our sustainability goals every step of the way.
Our Commitment to a Greener Future
EWGA Wines has taken significant strides to reduce its carbon footprint. In 2023, we installed solar panels at our headquarters, generating renewable energy to power our operations. Additionally, our entire sales fleet has transitioned to electric vehicles, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimising emissions. Beyond our own operations, we’re proud to work with wine producers who share our sustainability goals. All major partners are certified by their respective national environmental bodies, which ensures that sustainability is upheld throughout the winemaking process.
Our efforts extend beyond environmental responsibility. We’re proud members of the SME Climate Hub and Harper’s Sustainability Charter, demonstrating our commitment to playing an active role in the broader movement for a sustainable wine industry.
A Continuing Journey Toward Sustainability
Our ISO 14001 accreditation marks a significant milestone, but it’s just the beginning. We will continue to build on these achievements, working alongside our partners, customers, and local community to make meaningful strides toward a more sustainable future. We remain committed to reducing our impact on the planet and setting new standards in the wine industry.
At EWGA Wines, we’re excited about what the future holds and look forward to continuing our journey toward environmental stewardship.
