sustainable development report 2016 - tasca d'almerita€¦ · sustainable development report...

SustainableDevelopment Report2016

SOStain: vision

We work every day so that our children will have a better environment than ours.

Sustainability is not a random process, but a voluntary act which requires, in addition to the wisdom passed down, the support of science, technology and proper organisation.

We do it because we believe that awareness is the best way to carry out a project responsibly and without compromising the future of the generations to come.

This document has been realized thanks to the contribution

of members of the SOStain programme and reflects solely the

opinions of SOStain.

Alliance for Sustainable Winegrowing and WinemakingAzienda Agricola COS

Azienda Agricola Terre di Noto

Cantine Settesoli

Planeta

Tasca d’Almerita

Tenuta Santo Spirito di Vincenzo Gazzotti

Organisational Secretariat and copywritingVanessa Dioguardi

SOStain Scientific Committee Ettore Capri (chairman), Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza

Lucio Brancadoro, Università di Milano

Enrico Ciciotti, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore,, Piacenza

Paolo Inglese, Università di Palermo

Patrizia Pozzi, Milano Green Point, Milan

Andrea Di Guardo, Informatica Ambientale, Milan

Technical SecretariatLucrezia Lamastra

Luca Toninato

Data collection and processingGaetano Maccarrone, Tasca d’Almerita, Sicily

Davide Bacchiega, Tasca d’Almerita, Sicily

www.sostain.it

www.tascadalmerita.it

Summary

IntroductionPhilosophy and objectivesFeatures of SOStainThe actors and governance of SOStainThe voluntary agreement between the Ministry of the Environment and the ASVOpportunities created by SOStain

SOStain and Tasca d’Almerita: Results 2016PrefaceTasca d’Almerita and SicilyTasca d’Almerita EstatesThe company in numbers

The 10 minimum requirements of SOStain/VIVA1. Authorized treatments2. Safe wines3. Grassing in the winter4. Only the energy needed5. Light bottles for the air, too6. Grapes, people and skills as local as possible7. Biodiversity measurement and protection8. Eco-friendly materials in the vineyard9. The annual report 10. VIVA sustainability

The 10 SOStain resourcesIntroductionWater ResourcesSoil ResourcesTechnology ResourcesFarming ResourcesAir ResourcesEnergy ResourcesNatural ResourcesTerritorial ResourcesHuman ResourcesEconomic Resources

ConclusionsThe certificationThe 2017 sustainability estimate

710121314

16171820

28323640444852566064

767880818792949599

109110

114115

7

Introduction

Philosophy and objectives

SOStain is the first sustainability programme for Italian winemaking, a voluntary and proactive programme developed as a container of initiatives in favour of sustainability, to be promoted and proposed to member companies.

The idea of a search for sustainability was born in 2010. It is a process that will enrich and enhance all that lives around the production system – the earth, the landscape, the flora and fauna, those who work here and finally those who consume wine – with the aim of pursuing environmentally sustainable growth that is socially equitable and economically sound.Today, SOStain is ready to welcome other Sicilian companies – organic, biodynamic, natural, conventional and other kinds of wine producers. Whatever the type of production, what unites the SOStain actors is a willingness to share agricultural best practices that respect the ecosystem and are absolute

transparent to the consumer. What distinguishes SOStain from other types of certification is the acquisition of the awareness that the impact of agricultural activities goes well beyond the boundaries of the fields that are cultivated – it reaches the welfare of workers and the health of consumers, the involvement of local communities, the enhancement of the surrounding territory and the preservation of natural resources.And it is for this reason that the programme offers a quantitative measurement tool to give those who lead the company the information needed to continually improve, including among its requirements aspects ranging from the management of organic matter in the soil to its relative erosion or compacting, from the way workers are recruited to the economic impact of the company on the local territory, from the control of the weight of the bottles to the use of renewable energies, from the

98

IntroductionIntroduction

biodiversity of pollinators to protection of the landscape.Always keeping in mind that sustainability is not an end in itself, but an endless path to be taken together with others.Sustainability should not be understood as a way to achieve sustainable wines or as an alternative to existing management models. It is a process by which business decisions can be evaluated according to objective criteria. Not a fight between fundamentalists of different philosophies, but a way to assess the impact of one’s choices from different points of view.Another prerogative of the SOStain project is the fact that it does not belong to any one subject, but to all participants.

The ultimate goal is to associate SOStain with the sustainable development of Sicilian wine production, creating broad participation and sharing among all parties involved.

SOStain is intended as a round table involving winemakers and the scientific community, whose interaction is focussed on increasingly clear and transparent tools for the wise management of an estate or a company.There are many contexts and types of information that can be shared between companies without compromising or changing their identity; this broader sharing is nothing more than a multiplier of knowledge.

To this end, SOStain aims to:

• Acquire technical and scientific data on the current sustainability of local, regional, national and international territories.

• Apply a system of indicators useful for an assessment of environmental, economic and social performance in models of sustainable development.

• Promote guidelines for sustainable wine production.

• Disseminate, through the associated companies, practices oriented to the continuous improvement of sustainability levels through conscious agronomic management sensitive to the needs of the area and the sharing of values.

• Decrease, with a cascading effect, the environmental impact of suppliers of goods and services involved along the production chain.

• Implement an on-going education programme to transfer up-to-date tools to company technicians in order to improve sustainability, while promoting the training and professional and personal growth of all operators and workers in the company.

• Enhance and protect the natural, social and cultural resources, contributing to the maintenance of tradition and culture, factors that

Sustainability is not a prerogative of organic, biodynamic and natural agriculture. Sustainability embraces these definitions and goes further, through an approach that considers the importance of the environment, the economy and society.

The SOStain recipe: start with awareness and improve constantly.

1110

These are the key attributes1 that the wineries participating in SOStain must have/fulfil to demonstrate their commitment to improving their environmental, social and economic performance. They confer scientific rigour, objectivity, accuracy, consistency and transparency to the SOStain sustainability programme. Compliance with the minimum requirements will be verified and validated every two years by an independent certification body and the SOStain brand gives consumers a report on the company’s performance in regard to sustainability.

Features of SOStain

02.SOStain guidelines

01.The 10 minimum sustainability requirements

The specific SOStain guidelines for each of the 10 resources2 taken into consideration by the SOStain project. The guidelines define the principal themes on which the sustainable management of the business is based and for each, a series of practices that could be adopted to increase the sustainability of the company is provided. The guidelines are therefore a valuable tool for companies wishing to reduce their impact and they constitute a scientific collection of practices that are environmentally, economically and socially sustainable.

An annual sustainability report is published on the performance of the company with respect to its goals, and its strategies and objectives for the future are outlined therein. The reports are available for download on the SOStain site (www.sostain.it).

03.Annual report

constitute a wealth of values inextricably linked to Sicily and its winemaking tradition.

• Create a system with other domestic and foreign companies to ensure the sustainability of the sector and the continuous improvement of the processes, products and the eco-friendly services of the agricultural business.


2 The 10 SOStain resources are described on p.76.1 Because the 10 SOStain requirements are the fundamental attributes, they also constitute the chapters of this report. Each requirement introdu-ces the actions put in place to satisfy it.

1312

resources represented in the SOStain programme, with consultative and advisory functions.

• Two SOStain offices, one technical and the other organisational, to coordinate the activities and facilitate communication between internal and external actors. They are the operational arm of the Scientific Committee and the ASV.

The voluntary agreement between the Ministry of the Environment and the Alliance for Sustainable Development in Viticulture (SOStain)

In June 2016, a voluntary agreement was signed between the italian Ministry of the Environment and Protection of Land and Sea and the Alliance for Sustainable Development in Viticulture (SOStain). The signatory parties agree to promote initiatives dedicated to the enhancement of sustainability in grape processing, winemaking and the bottling

and distribution of wines, creating appropriate integration and synergies between the Sicilian SOStain programme and the national VIVA programme known as “Sustainability in Wine Production in Italy”. In particular, the Alliance has agreed to use, in the SOStain programme, the calculation methods developed by the Ministry of the Environment for the VIVA - Sustainability in Wine Production in Italy project (Indicators Air; Water; Territory; Vineyard) for the quantification of the sustainability level of companies adhering to the SOStain programme and to measure the commitment to continuous improvement.

The Ministry of the Environment is committed to promoting national best practices that emerge within the SOStain programme, which will be applied, appropriately contextualized, in other wine producing contexts.

The organisation of SOStain is based on:

• An association of member companies called the Alliance for Sustainable Development in Viticulture (ASV) today composed by Azienda Agricola COS,Cantine Settesoli, Tasca d’Almerita, Santo Spirito of Vincenzo Gazzotti Estate, Terre di Noto and Planeta.

• A scientific committee composed by at least one representative for each of the

The actors and governance of SOStain

Alliance for SustainableDevelopment in Viticulture

Promotes

Based on V.I.V.A. indicators


14

workers and their professional and human growth. Health, safety, training, and the sharing of skills, experiences and knowledge are the elements of the SOStain programme on which the relationship between the company and its employees is based.

The SOStain programme was developed to enable partner companies to certify their own path in a similar way to other national and international programmes in the wine industry. The certification of results now under way will ensure that companies receive proper recognition of their efforts in the direction of sustainability.

SOStain can be an important tool for local development and for promoting Sicilian winemaking, giving greater visibility to member companies, especially not that the sustainability associated with a given product is now a major driver of competitiveness, especially in overseas markets.

In addition, an integrated sustainability programme such as SOStain intends to create a positive impact on the companies themselves by working to develop a strategy directed at their

Opportunities created by SOStain SOStain and

Tasca d’AlmeritaResults 2016

Introduction

1716

We can safely say that the SOStain project has become a compass not only for our company, but in some ways, even for our lives. For over twenty years we have talked about sustainability, and many other virtuous agricultural practices have been undertaken and discussed. There is a great deal of literature on these matters, but nothing has ever been as convincing as the undertaking of this project. SOStain is a voluntary pro-active process in which our actions are measured not only for their impact on the environment, but in every direction possible.

SOStain is infinite: a continuous quest for improvement. It is a dynamic model, not a static one – just like nature and natural cycles. The principle on which it is based is a Life Cycle Assessment, which evaluates all interactions that a product has with the surrounding environment during its entire life cycle. Thanks to SOStain, we draw upon

Preface Alberto Tasca d’Almerita3

the world’s most advanced scientific skills aimed at the development of sustainability. A mixture between consultation and pro-active comparison. In seven years of hard work we have learned a lot, but we still have the pleasant feeling of having lots of room to grow. And it is fascinating for this reason.

Now the project is directed towards a broader dissemination of the experience we have gained and I am certain that this will bring both well-being and skills we can all share. Our planet needs to be protected and preserved not only for what it has given us so far, but above all because of the rapid growth of the world’s population. We must, for this reason, live with respect and awareness so that in the future everyone’s vital needs can be met.

SOStain studies and teaches us how to do so.

3 Alberto is CEOof Tasca d’Almerita

SOStain and Tasca d’Almerita: results 2016 SOStain and Tasca d’Almerita: results 2016

Tasca d’Almerita is the history of a family company that looks to the future, an interpreter of that close connection between quality and identity that has brought recognition to Sicily as one of the most interesting and diverse wine producing areas in the world.

The heart of the company, Regaleali, is an estate of 500 hectares in the centre of Sicily, and it has been the property of the Tasca family since 1830. It was here, in the 1970s, that Conte Lucio Tasca d’Almerita became the first to demonstrate that Sicily could produce wines on an international level that could compete in the same level with the best vintages produced in Europe and in the New World. Today, Lucio’s children, Giuseppe and Alberto Tasca d’Almerita, follow the path of paternal experience, preserving an enthusiasm for the search

Tasca d’Almerita and Sicily

for quality and a passion for innovation. Since 2001, they have guided the growth of the company from the historic centre of Regaleali. Today, Tasca d’Almerita consists of five estates (tenute) that represent the complex profile of Sicily, with different soils and conditions: from volcanic soils to clay, from the sea to mountains with a continental climate.A varietal heritage of more than 50 varieties, of which 12 native: Tenuta Tascante on the slopes of Mt. Etna, Tenuta Capofaro on the island of Salina, Tenuta Whitaker in Mozia, and Tenuta Sallier de La Tour in the Monreale DOC area4.

Tasca d’Almerita is a series of stories to be told. For now, we’ll let the numbers speak for themselves.

4

01. Mozia / Whitaker Estate02. DOC Monreale / Sallier de la Tour Estate03. Sclafani Bagni / Regaleali Estate04. Salina / Capofaro Estate05. Etna / Tascante Estate

1918

Tasca d’Almerita Estates


2120

estates

Tasca generation

5

8caper plants52

year of foundation1830

vines1.788.000

hectares of lakesand streams

21,7

projectsfor sustainabledevelopment

3

hectaresof woodland

21

terraced vineyards on Mount Etna

110

kWh of photovoltaic energy402.249

hectaresof which 430,25 are vineyards

651

The company in numbers


2322


employees

yearscompany’s average age

180 67

247donne43

uomini204

seasonal workers permanent staff

from Sicily5 from the rest of Italy

242

42

agriculture

agriculture

production

production

administration

administration

0%

44 years

62,9%

3,3%

45 years 2%

43 years

13,1%

3,7%

hospitalityhospitality

commercial

commercial

marketing and communication

marketing and communication

9%37 years

0,8%

1,6%

49 years

1,6%

37 years

1,2%

0,8%

2524

visitors overall6428

olives treesand 7 varieties

4500

vine varietiescultivated, of which12 are native

27

sheeps113

hectares of natural areas54,3

hectaresof pasture land

19

wines31

hectarescultivated as bushes

8,5


accidents in 20164

vine varieties cultivatedin the experimental field

23

18,4%EBITDA(Earnings before interests, taxes, depreciation and autorization)

26

The 10 minimum requirements of SOStain/VIVA

experimental hectares,with 5 native varieties and 7 relics varieties

3

volume per square metreof farmland

0,26%

hectaresin biodynamic experimentation

1

hectares in organic2 at Regaleali and10 at Tenuta Whitaker

12

hectares inintegrated control

403

SOStain and Tasca d’Almerita: results 2016

2928 2928

REQUIREMENT 01Only treatments whose impact on the environment, the farmer and the consumer is lower or equal than that of organic treatments

The evaluation is performed using the EIQ indicator (Environmental Impact Quotient), which measures the impact of treatments on the environment, on farmers and on consumers.

The use of chemical weed control is also prohibited.

Technology Resources p.81

Water Resourcesp.78

3130

REQUIREMENT 01 - Authorized treatments

Properties of the active ingredients considered in the EIQ calculation.

Systemicity Toxicity to fishes

Potential loss on the surface

The only treatments authorised for plant protection are those based on active ingredients with a low impact on the environment, the consumer and the farmer. This score is based on the reference values calculated with the EIQ indicator and reported in the literature. The EIQ indicator, acronym for Environmental Impact Quotient, is used to assess the environmental impact of the use of pesticides, both to compare different types of companies and to analyse changes over time. This indicator is based on the physico-chemical properties of the active ingredients in pesticides, which can be obtained from specific databases.

Toxicity to birds Dermal toxicity

Toxicity to bees Chronic toxicity Toxicity to arthropods Half-life on the surface of plants

Half-life in soil Percolation potential index

REQUIREMENT 01 - Authorized treatments

It considers three components of total impact: farmers (EIQ farmer), consumers (EIQ consumer) and the environment (EIQ environment). The three components have equal weight in the final calculation of the indicator. In calculating the EIQ value of an active ingredient, 11 of its properties are considered (systemicity, toxicity to fish, toxicity to birds, dermal toxicity, toxicity to bees, chronic toxicity, toxicity to arthropods, half-life on the surface of the plant, half-life in the soil, potential index of percolation and potential surface loss), so as to evaluate the various aspects of environmental impact.By using this indicator, each adversity

is controlled and a comparison is made between the impact of the proposed treatment and the impact of a similar treatment carried out with compounds authorised in organic viticulture. In order to meet the minimum requirement,the company must show that it uses lines of defence whose EIQ values are less than or equal to those that would be obtained using products registered in organic farming.

The results ofTasca d’Almeritaimpact of treatments on the environment, on farmers and on consumers

The chart compares the EIQ values (Environmental Impact Quotient) obtained by comparing the vineyard defence strategy adopted by Tasca in 2016 and a similar strategy that uses only products allowed in organic farming.As can be seen, Tasca’s management in 2016 had a lower impact on the environment, on the farmer and the consumer than that of an equivalent area of organic viticulture.

The use of chemical weed control is also prohibited in dealing with weeds in the vineyard.

organic vineyarddefence strategy

Tasca Vineyarddefence strategy

EIQ ValueTotal/ha

EIQ ValueFarmer/ha

EIQ ValueConsumer/ha

EIQ ValueEnvironment/ha

BIO

BIO

BIO

BIO

3332 3332

REQUIREMENT 02Safe wines: lots of analyses and very little sulphur

The total sulphite content in the wines must be equal to or less than the following values:100 mg/l for red wine, 150 mg/l for white and rosé, 170 mg/l for sweet red wines, 220 mg/l for sweet white wines) and 155 mg/l for quality sparkling wines. In addition, in a four-year period, all the company labels must undergo analysis to check for any residues and toxic substances (pesticides, ochratoxins and heavy metals).

Human Resourcesp.109

Technology Resourcesp.81

3534

REQUIREMENT 02 - Safe wines: lots of analyses and very little sulphur

Sulphites have a preservative and antioxidant effect on wine and help maintain its quality over time. The maximum amounts allowed in oenology are established at the European Community level. However, by processing quality grapes it is possible to reduce the amount of added sulphites while ensuring the quality of wine.SOStain/VIVA establishes that the total sulphite content in wines must be equal to or less than what is provided for by EC Regulation 203/2012, which governs organic wines.

In addition, in order to minimize the impact not only on the environment, but also on the consumer, at least 25% of the labels marketed by SOStain/VIVA companies must be analysed each year to verify compliance with current regulations governing residues of agrochemical treatments in wines. In the next four years, all labels marketed by the company will

undergo analysis. The analysis is carried out to check for the presence of residues and toxic materials harmful to one’s health (pesticide residues, heavy metals and ochratoxin).

REQUIREMENT 02 - Safe wines: lots of analyses and very little sulphur

The results ofTasca d’Almerita

The integrated pest management5 used on Tasca d’Almerita estates already guarantees the absence of residues in the wine. However, the company protects consumers further by analysing all of its wines to guarantee the highest safety and quality standards. The analyses conducted over the years have never revealed the presence of any harmful substances (pesticide residues, heavy metals and ochratoxin). The organoleptic quality of our products is recognised by numerous Italian and foreign guides in the industry.

The sulphite content in our wines is also constantly monitored throughout the winemaking process and in the finished product.

The sulphite content of Tasca wines, regardless of the variety, is below the limits allowed by organic wine technical regulations.

Comparison of sulphite limitspermitted in the EU, maximum amount allowedfor organic wine and average sulphite contentin Tasca wines marketed in 2016.

Red wines White andRosé wines

Sparkling wines Red sweet wines White and Rosé sweet wines

5 EC Directive no. 128 of 21 October 2009 – establishing a framework for European Community action for the sustainable use of pesticides – defines integrated pest management as “the careful consideration of all available crop protection methods and the consequent integration of all appropriate measures to discourage the development of populations of harmful organisms and which maintain the use of plant protection products and other forms of intervention at levels that are justified in economic and ecological terms, reducing or minimizing the risks to human health and the environment”.

3736 3736

Grassing in the winter to defend the soil

All the rows of vines are grassed during the winter to counter erosion and maintain the organic matter in the soil.

REQUIREMENT 03Soil Resourcesp.80

Farming Resourcesp.87

3938

REQUIREMENT 03 - Grassing in the winter to defend the soilREQUIREMENT 03 - Grassing in the winter to defend the soil

The protection of agricultural soil as an environmental resource is one of the European Union’s recommended goals. Soil, in fact, is the interface between earth, air and water and it hosts the majority of all living species, as it is able to sustain the lives of plants and animals. For this reason, one of the requirements of SOStain/VIVA is to cover the rows of the vineyard with grass, whether spontaneous or artificial, throughout

the winter period. It is a practice that consists of letting native plant species grow spontaneously on the ground (spontaneous grassing) or in sowing certain species of grass (artificial grass cover) between the rows. The grass limits the surface flow of rain water flowing on the ground and counters erosion, mainly erosion due to the elements (wind, rain, etc.). It also helps to maintain the organic

matter in the soil, improving its fertility and habitability by terrestrial fauna (earthworms and invertebrates).

In order to maintain or increase the physical, chemical and microbiological fertility of the soil, all the vineyards of the Tasca d’Almerita company are grassed during the winter with annual or perennial species. A portion of about 20 hectares is also

kept grass-covered during the summer, while the remaining hectares are ploughed to limit competition for water.

Winter grassing Summer grassing

4140 4140

Only the energy needed

Processes are considered efficient if they are able to produce wines using max. 0,6 kWh of energy per liter of wine.

REQUIREMENT 04EnergyResourcesp.94

AirResourcesp.92

0,6 kwh/ l MAX.

42

REQUIREMENT 04 - Only the energy needed

In viticulture over the years, in addition to a process of mechanization in the field, energy consumption in the winery has increased because it was necessary to becoming independent from weather conditions and seasonal cycles. From the environmental point of view, much of the energy used, as it is produced from fossil fuels, produces an increase in greenhouse gases and thus in global warming. The SOStain/VIVA programme has the goal of promoting energy efficiency in winemaking processes, which are considered the ones that consume the most energy.Processes are considered efficient if they are able to produce wines using max. 0.6 kWh/l of wine, calculated for purchased energy and not for energy from renewable sources.

In 2015 and 2016, Tasca d’Almerita consumed 0.25 kWh of energy per litre of wine produced.The production of energy with our photovoltaic system contributed to this result and enabled us to reach 504,732 kWh of self-consumed energy in the winery over the last two years.


4544 4544

Light bottles for the air, too

The average weight of the glass bottles used during the year must be less than or equal to 485.8 g /0.75 litres (+/- 10%) (ECOPROWINE average).

REQUIREMENT 05AirResourcesp.92

485,8g/0,75lMAX.

4746

REQUIREMENT 05 - Light bottles for the air, tooREQUIREMENT 05 - Light bottles for the air, too

More than 50% of greenhouse gas emissions related to the production of a bottle of wine are due to the glass of which it is made. For this reason, making the glass bottles lighter reduces the impact on the air.

In the SOStain/VIVA programme, the average weight of the glass bottles used during the year must be less than or equal to 485.8 g /0.75 litres (+/- 10%) (ECOPROWINE average).


Reducing the weight of the bottles.Contribution of the various factors to greenhouse gas emissions.

From 2011 to 2016, Tasca d’Almerita lightened 837,851 bottles. In 2016, the average weight amounted to 488 g/0.75 l.This result was achieved thanks to the fact that 657,851 bottles of single-variety wines were reduced to 140 g, with a saving in terms of CO equivalents of 82.44 tonnes.

4948 4948

Grapes, people and skills as local as possible

The SOStain/VIVA programme requires that 100% of the purchased grapes, at least 80% of the employees and at least 50% of the services used are local resources.

REQUIREMENT 06HumanResourcesp.109

TerritorialResourcesp.99

EconomicResourcesp.110

50

REQUIREMENT 06 - Grapes, people and skills as local as possible

We do not strive only for quality wine, a perfect nose and palate, but we recognize and seek wines that tell us something about the territory that grows together with the wine business.The link with the territory of production is valued and recognised as a source of competitiveness, and thus of economic growth.The SOStain/VIVA programme requires 100% of the purchased grapes, 80% of the employees and 50% of the services used to be local resources.

The company uses local input and resources as much as possible to maintain local craft and production activities and create opportunities for growth, training and jobs for the local community.

100% of the purchased grapes, 98% of the employees and 70% of the services used are located in Sicily.

The results of Tasca d’Almerita

of the employees

of the services

of the purchased grapes

5352 5352

REQUIREMENT 07Biodiversity measurement and protection

The OAB protocol must be adopted to measure biodiversity in the vineyard.

Farming Resourcesp.87

NaturalResourcesp.95

5554

REQUIREMENT 07 - Biodiversity measurement and protectionREQUIREMENT 07 - Biodiversity measurement and protection

Biodiversity – all life forms and the ecosystems related to them – is the most valuable resource for mankind. It is therefore crucial to preserve the landscapes, flora, fauna, aquatic and land environments and areas of special natural interest.In the SOStain/VIVA programme, it is mandatory to adopt the OAB6 protocol to ensure that viticulture conducted according to the principles of sustainability does not compromise biodiversity.A comparison is made of areas under vines and other areas, and the number of earthworms, terrestrial invertebrates, pollinators and butterflies is measured. To satisfy the requirement, the analysed species in the wine-growing areas must be present in amounts not less than 30% of those in the areas not under vines.

Given that the measurement of soil biodiversity and viticultural

environments can be conducted in the period from February to November, at the first verification in a period that does not permit the measurement of biodiversity, a written plan for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity – containing the items that will be used for analysis, according to the OAB Protocol, during the following year – can be submitted as an alternative.

The detection of biodiversity according to the OAB protocol is in progress on all company estates. The results will be communicated in the next report.Tasca d’Almerita has drawn up a written plan for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity based on:

• the protection of existing natural areas, including the establishment of a permanent reservoir of biomass on company property or possibly in the area of intervention;

• the potential recovery of natural areas by limiting the presence of separations, fences and barriers, as well as factors of imbalance, pollution and limits to biodiversity;

• the creation of diversified environments that favour the biodiversity of flora and fauna necessary both for the quality of natural environments and for the protection of genetic variation.

• the preservation and the increase of flora and wildlife, especially species and habitats of community interest, thereby contributing to the preservation and improvement of the sites included in the “Natura 2000” Network (Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC);

• the promotion of agro-environmental agreements under the Regional Rural Development Plan;

• training for operators and workers on the topic of biodiversity.


6 Observatoire Agricole de la Biodiversité.

Terrestrialinvertebrates

Butterflies

Earthworms

Pollinators

5756 5756

Eco-friendly materials in the vineyard

For the realisation of new vineyards, only recyclable or biodegradable materials can be used.

REQUIREMENT 08TerritorialResourcesp.99

5958

REQUIREMENT 08 - Eco-friendly materials in the vineyardREQUIREMENT 08 - Eco-friendly materials in the vineyard

For the realisation of SOStain-certified vineyards, only recyclable or biodegradable materials can be used.

In particular, in setting up new vineyards and in the management of existing vineyards, exclusively eco-friendly materials must be used, that is, those that can be recycled or which have already been recycled. The use of plastic and the cement is not allowed when they can be avoided.

On Tasca d’Almerita estates, the materials used in vine growing activities are selected on the basis of their recyclability and eco-compatibility. All the vineyards are set up using poles made of wood or metal


and the ties for the vines are made of recyclable material.When possible, poles from the chestnut woods of the Tascante estate are also used.

6160 6160

Not just a sticker. Words and numbers that narrate a commitment

The sustainability report must be published every year to ensure the actions taken and the results achieved are transparent.

REQUIREMENT 09HumanResourcesp.109

EconomicResourcesp.110

6362

REQUIREMENT 09 - Not just a sticker. Words and numbers narrate a commitment

Being sustainable also means telling your own story, using measurable data and taking responsibility for those who make the wine and those who drink it.To this purpose, SOStain/VIVA member companies prepare an annual sustainability report in which, by sharing a common language, they illustrate the results of the actions taken on their path to improvement and trace their commitments for the future.


This is the sixth sustainability report for Tasca d’Almerita. Like the previous ones, the 2016 report is inspired by the commitment to growth and transparency, which not only represents an essential value, but is the simplest, most practical and credible way to describe the path we have chosen.All the reports can be downloaded from www.sostain.it

6564 6564

VIVA sustainability: measuring the impact on air, water, the vineyard and the territory It’s necessary to measure sustainability in the wine industry through a multidisciplinary approach based on four indicators: AIR, WATER, VINEYARD and TERRITORY.

REQUIREMENT 10WaterResourcesp.78

AirResourcesp.92

TerritorialResourcesp.99

Technology Resourcesp.81

6766

REQUIREMENT 10 - VIVA sustainability REQUIREMENT 10 - VIVA sustainability

VIVA – Sustainability in Italian Viticulture – is the programme of the Ministry of the Environment and Protection of Land and Sea to measure sustainability in the wine industry through a multidisciplinary approach based on four indicators: AIR, WATER, VINEYARD and TERRITORY. Considering its national importance, SOStain/VIVA member companies adhere to the Certification Regulations at the organisational level.

The VINEYARD indicator is a tool used to assess the environmental impact of agricultural activities implemented to run a vineyard and, indirectly, their impact on the quality of the landscape.



Vineyard Indicator

The results, validated by Certiquality in 2017, placed the company in class A, the indicator of a reduced impact on the environment (E = maximum impact;A = minimal impact).

Water Indicator

The WATER indicator (water footprint) seeks to quantify the volume of freshwater used directly and indirectly to produce wine.

It should be noted that most of the water used on the Tasca d’Almerita Estates is green, i.e. provided naturally by the environment, while blue and grey water is used in very small quantities.

Water Footprint Regaleali Estate.

GREEN waterBLUE waterGREY water

Water Footprint Tascante Estate.

Water Footprint Sallier de la Tour Estate.

Water Footprint Capofaro Estate.

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The AIR indicator (carbon footprint) represents the total greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalents) associated with the production cycle.

The assessment of corporate responsibility, biodiversity and the social and economic impact of business activities is carried out by means of the “territory indicator” defined in the VIVA Regulations.It includes 40 requirements, which, where applicable, the company must fulfil to move forward on the VIVA sustainability path.Each requirement is attributable to one of three sub-indicators:

• Landscape and biodiversity(protection of the environment, of biodiversity, of ecosystems and the landscape);

• Society and culture(the local society and communities, the cultural heritage of the area);

• Economics and ethics(including the effects on consumers).

Air Indicator Territory Indicatorof VIVA



Tasca d’Almerita has met all the requirements set by the territory indicator.

Contribution of the single factors on Tasca d’Almerita carbonic footprint.

REQUIREMENT 10 - VIVA sustainability REQUIREMENT 10 - VIVA sustainability

Area 1Direct GHGemissions

American box

Area 2GHG emissionsfrom energy consumption

Area 3GHG emissionsfrom unownedsources

Cooling gas

Glass bottle

Truck transportationTravel by car

purchased grapes

Other

Elettricity

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More info - VIVAMore info - VIVA

The calculation of this indicator makes

it possible to evaluate the impact of the

vineyards on the environment, thereby giving

the producer a photograph of the current

situation so that he may identify where

action to reduce the impact can be taken.

It therefore judges sustainability

performance through the analysis of six

sub-indicators:

VINEYARD INDICATOR

The calculation then generates:

-an assessment score (a value between 0,

maximum sustainability, and 1, minimum

sustainability) for each sub-indicator taken

into account.

-a global score that determines the

sustainability class according to the following

scheme.

WATER INDICATOR

The WATER indicator (water footprint) is

calculated on the basis of the international

standard UNI EN ISO 14046 and seeks to

quantify the volume of freshwater used directly

and indirectly in the activities in the field and in

the winery.

It consists of three factors:

• Green water: the volume of rainwater

that evaporated during the crop cycle of the

production process.

• Blue water: the volume of freshwater

consumed by the crops during the production

cycle and evapotranspired by them; in the case

of industrial and domestic use, it is the amount

of fresh water which does not return to the

beginning of the production process – to the

same point where it was removed – or returns

there but at another time.

• Grey water: the volume of water required

to dilute pollutants introduced during the

production process so that the pollution level

remains below the limits established by law or

certain eco-toxicological end-points. It should

be noted that the use of green water is not under

the direct control of the company, as it depends

mainly on the volume of rain water that falls

during the reference period. A high incidence of

green water, therefore, should not be understood

as a sign of the company’s inefficient

management of water resources. The blue water

and grey water amounts, however, are directly

dependent on company water management

policies. They depend, respectively, on the

company’s consumption and on the activities in

the field.

Amount Class of assessment Assessment

0 - 0.3 A Excellent

0.31 - 0.55 B Good

0.56 - 0.75 C Acceptable

0.76 - 0.9 D Notacceptable

> 0.91 E Negative

• Defence: evaluates the potential

environmental risk associated with

the use of agrochemicals;

• Fertilisation: assesses the

sustainability of fertilisers;

• Fertility: assesses the impact of

land management practices on the

evolution of the organic matter;

• Processing: assesses the

influence on soil compaction of

the various mechanical operations

carried out in the vineyard;

• Erosion: takes into account the

activities related to the control of

run-off water;

• Landscape: takes into account

the presence of natural vegetation

or vegetation planted by the

grower in areas of the company

and/or adjacent to the vineyards

for an indirect assessment of the

company’s biodiversity.

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The AIR indicator (carbon footprint) is

based on the international standard

UNI EN ISO 14064 and represents

the total greenhouse gas emissions

(CO2 equivalents) associated with the

production cycle. According to data from

the World Bank database, 75% of climate

change is due to CO2 emissions, while 25%

comes from methane produced by enteric

fermentation (intestinal gas) in cattle and

the nitrous oxide emissions from nitrogen-

based fertilisers.

AIR INDICATOR TERRITORY INDICATOR

The assessment of corporate responsibility,

biodiversity and the social and economic

impact of business activities is carried out by

means of the “territory indicator” defined in

the VIVA Regulations.

The territory is understood here as the place

where relations exist between the local

community and the landscape, the latter being

understood as a complex of natural and non-

natural elements that are characteristic of a

given area.

The calculation of the air indicator enables

companies to identify and manage the risks

and responsibilities linked to the emissions

of harmful greenhouse gases.

It is based on the Life Cycle Assessment

methodology (LCA) that assesses the

impact of the entire production system

and quantifies its effects along the entire

production chain, from cultivation to

consumption. The indicator is measured in

tonnes of CO2 equivalents [t CO2-eq] and it

refers to the sum of:

• activities and related manufacturing sites;

• organisations that manage the production

activities;

• these factors over a set time interval.

The emissions produced by the company are

divided into three areas:

Area 1direct emissions of the organisation:

combustion, process emissions, oxidation,

heating fuel, etc.

Area 2indirect emissions from energy consumption:

heat, electricity, steam, etc.

Area 3other indirect emissions not due to energy

consumption.

The VIVA Regulations include 40 requirements,

which, where applicable, the company must

necessarily fulfil to move forward on the

VIVA sustainability path. Each requirement is

attributable to one of three sub-indicators:

• landscape and biodiversity (protection of the

environment, of biodiversity, of ecosystems and

the landscape);

• society and culture (the local society and

communities, the cultural heritage of the area);

• economics and ethics (including the effects

on consumers).

The goal is to enhance both the intrinsic and

the extrinsic qualities of the product.

Meeting the requirements of the territory

indicator is a prerequisite for access to the

VIVA programme.

More info - VIVAMore info - VIVA

ENHANCEMENT OF THE «OUTSIDE» QUALITY

«OUTSIDE»• Environmental protection

• Quality of life of the winemaker and his co-workers

• Enhancement of the landscape

• Sharing values in the territory and in the community

• Preservation of cultural traditions

«INSIDE»• Representativeness

• Healthiness

• Fine quality

• Taste

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The10 SOStain resources

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The Water Resource is one of the Earth’s

most important assets.

Its purity, its preservation, its quality and its

management are primary goals for SOStain/VIVA companies necessary to achieve

sustainable viticulture.

The Soil Resource is the foundation of

viticulture. This resource is taken into

consideration by the SOStain/VIVA

programme to ensure good fertility, good

structure and a sufficient content of organic

matter to the soil, even in the long term.

The SOStain / VIVA programme aims to

enhance all agronomic aspects useful for

reducing the use of agricultural chemicals and

for moving closer to a sustainable use of the

same. In practice, this need translates into

the “integrated” management of pathogens,

minimising costs and risks to human health

and the environment as much as possible.

Attention to Farming Resources lets us take

good care of the vineyard and all the activities

that have to be managed, while remaining

faithful to the winemaking traditions of the

territory, starting from the choices to be made

during implantation and up until the grapes

are delivered to the winery.

While contributing only minimally to the

pollution of the air, viticulture still represents

one of the sources of emission into the

atmosphere of both particulate substances

and greenhouse gases.

The SOStain/VIVA programme promotes an

integrated management of Air Resources

aimed at preventing and reducing air

pollution and achieving economic benefits.

The management of this resource aims to

encourage sustainable energy use, i.e. a

method of energy production and use that

produces energy savings, understood as

a reduction of the energy needed to meet

business needs.

In the SOStain/VIVA programme, the bond

with the territory of operations is enhanced

and intended as a source of competitiveness

and thus of economic growth. Through a

careful approach to Territorial Resources,

opportunities for economic and social

development can be created throughout the

area while respecting cultural traditions;

this also improves the quality of life for the

local citizens.

In the SOStain/VIVA programme it is crucial

to preserve the landscape, the geological

formations, the flora, the fauna, the aquatic

and land environments and areas of special

natural interest in order to retain the most

precious of human resources – biodiversity.

In the SOStain/VIVA programme, being

socially responsible means not only satisfying

legal obligations fully but also going further

and investing in human capital, in the

environment and in relationships with other

stakeholders, which include operators,

consumers, residents and bystanders.

Economic sustainability is the basis of all

entrepreneurial activities. Conducting a

business that is sustainable according to the

parameters of the SOStain/VIVA programme

means adopting strategies and practices

that satisfy both the needs of the company

and all its stakeholders.

The 10 SOStain resources The 10 SOStain resources

Soil Resources

Water Resources

Farming Resources

Air Resources

Technology Resources

Energy Resources

Territorial Resources

Human Resources

Natural Resources

Economic Resources

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Water ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of water resources

Wastewater treatment plant In order to preserve the quality and quantity of the water resources used, the Regaleali estate has a wastewater treatment plant that collects the waste water from the winery and from the agritourism facility. In particular, water is supplied to the winery by three freshwater sources and to the agritourism facility by the municipal

water works. The water treated by the plant, together with rainwater and water from soil drainage, flows into the Regaleali stream. From the stream, the waters flow from a catchment area (pre-lake), which allows the sediment to settle, and then into a large lake whose water is used for the irrigation of the vineyards.

Regaleali wastewater treatment plant.

Technology and awareness A localized irrigation system that brings water to the vineyards only if and where necessary ensures an optimal use of irrigation on the estates of the Tasca d’Almerita company. In order to monitor and keep water resources under control, all quantities used are recorded, and every year the irrigation system is maintained to avoid waste. Only 29% of the total area was irrigated (28% in 2015 and 40% in 2014) with an average volume of 54 litres per plant. These results should be interpreted in light of the climatic conditions: there was in fact 50% less rainfall in 2016 than in 2015, both on an annual basis and during the growing season.

In the field To dissolve the active ingredients to be applied in the field, low to medium volumes of water are used (250 l/ha in 2016 compared to 400 l/ha in 2015).

In the winery In 2016, water consumption per litre of wine amounted to 2.53 litres of water, remaining below the world average (3.68 litres of water per litre of wine), giving proof of great waste control efficiency.

The presence of buffer strips The contamination of water bodies due to agricultural chemicals is highly unlikely in the vineyards managed by Tasca d’Almerita thanks to the distance separating the vineyards from the water bodies, the presence of buffer strips of at least 5 metres between the vineyard and the water bodies and the treatment of only the inward part of the last row.


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Soil ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of soil resources

Technology ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of technology resources

Green manureSince 2014, the practice of green manuring in alternate rows became part of ordinary operations in all our vineyards, thanks to our own seed production of open field crops cultivated specifically for this purpose.Green manuring consists of sowing seeds of herbaceous species between the rows of vines; once the plants have developed, they are buried and absorbed in the ground. Green manuring usually makes use of forage legumes (faba bean, field beans and sainfoin) with an autumn-winter growth cycle and high growth capacity, which allows abundant biomass to be obtained in a short period of time and in the period with the greatest availability of water. This biomass, due to its specific C/N ratio, is useful to increasing the availability of nitrogen in the soil, while to increase the organic matter it is important to sow not only legumes, but also grasses, whose more

fibrous tissues rebalance the C/N ratio and thus favour the production of organic matter.The cultivation of bean crops to be used in green manuring is also useful for crop rotation, which involves alternating durum wheat and legumes.

Organic matter To ensure the fertility of the soil and its organic wealth, the pruning of vines and olive trees are shredded and incorporated into the soil. This further increases the organic content

and physical structure of the soil, improving its porosity and constituting an important source of nutrients and enhancing the growth of microbial flora and micro- and meso-fauna, which promote plant growth.

In 2016, only 60 hectares were fertilised by adding organic matter only where it was needed the most.

Monitoring and specific applications Weekly monitoring is conducted to decide if and when to apply specific treatments, after evaluating the potential damage to the crops. If the economic threshold of the potential damage is low, the company prefers not to apply treatments or it limits the intervention only to a few particularly sensitive areas. Sustainable pest management is essentially based on three pillars: 1. Monitoring climate parametersThe development cycle of vine parasites, as of all natural organisms, depends on climatic parameters, mainly temperature and humidity, but also brightness, the amount of wind and rain, and especially, the stage of development of the vine, as it is the host on which these organisms feed.Predictive models have been developed for many years now, and based on the climatic conditions, they determine the greater or lesser

Temperature Humidity Brightness

Wind RainGrowth

of the vine


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probability of parasite development. The constant monitoring of climate parameters is therefore crucial to avoiding unnecessary treatments, which, unless the parasite is present, would be harmful to the environment and unjustified from an economic and quality-oriented point of view.The monitoring of climate parameters is carried out by means of agro-meteorological huts arranged between the rows of vines.

2. Monitoring the presence of parasitesAlthough there is a close relationship between climatic parameters and the growth of pests, other factors that are not always measurable can affect the development cycle of parasites. Winter weather conditions, for example, have a fundamental impact on encouraging or preventing a significant presence of parasites in the spring. The presence of natural enemies, which are difficult

▼Pheromone Trapfor the Tignola vine moth.

to measure, can also reduce or even prevent the normal appearance of a given parasite.So, in addition to climatic conditions, it is essential to monitor the true presence of parasites. The monitoring of the presence of parasites is

generally carried out, for insects, with traps that attract the insect by means of sexual lures (pheromones) or by means of colours (chromotropic traps). The traps make it possible to verify the presence of parasites and their proliferation. It is then easy to determine whether or not it is necessary to perform a treatment.For diseases caused by mould, monitoring can be carried out only through the direct observation of the host. Through constant observation of the shoots, leaves, flowers and grapes to detect the presence of stains, discolourations and dieback,

the expert eye of the winemaker can identify the first symptoms of mildew attack. If the environmental conditions are favourable, the subsequent development of mould can lead to the complete destruction of the production and the green parts of the plant.

3. Defining damage thresholds. This means at what level the presence of parasites renders treatment with specific products absolutely indispensable. The presence of a parasite in the vineyard does not always justify the need for a treatment. Often climatic parameters and generally adverse environmental conditions, or the presence of natural antagonists, prevent the parasite from developing in a virulent way. The parasite, though present, is not dramatically harmful, and so the damage is such that it does not justify the use of specific treatments. A few damaged leaves or bunches can be borne by the plant and


Dieback

Discolourations

Stains

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prove sustainable from both a qualitative and an economic point of view.The definition of damage thresholds is therefore fundamental – below them, the parasite can be tolerated and it is not convenient to apply treatments.The monitoring of climate parameters, the presence of parasites and the definition of damage thresholds make it possible to define a rational and sustainable scheme for pest management, limiting the number of interventions to three or four per vintage, thereby reducing negative environmental impact greatly and ensuring a high degree of safety for the consumer.

Use of biological control practices In agronomy, biological control is the use of any living biological entity, or an element derived from living organisms, which is able to contain the activity of a pathogen or a parasite. Since 2010, the estate of Capofaro on Salina has utilised the technique of “sexual confusion”7 to contrast the

Tignola vine moth. It is a technique that makes it possible to avoid the use of insecticides; sources of pheromones are placed in the vineyards in order to hinder the males in the identification of the females, thereby preventing their proliferation.

Sustainable use of phytosanitary productsThe Tasca d’Almerita company increases sustainability in the use of

agricultural chemicals through the use of nocturnal treatments, which offer environmental advantages from both a technical and social perspective. In addition, all plant health measures on crops are carried out with timing and products that respect insect pollinators.

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Maintenance and calibration The sprayers used were certified in 2013 after being adjusted and calibrated to ensure proper efficiency and uniform distribution, in accordance with the regulations in force (Directive 2009/128/CE) and with the National Agricultural Plan.


pheromones

ideal path

real trajectoryMALE

FEMALE

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Environmental advantages- Limited drift of the prod ucts distributed;

- Less evaporation;

- Reduced activity of fauna and insects;

- Containment of emis sions and dispersion of

PM10 (due to mechanisa tion).

Technical advantagesSmaller volumes of solu tion used (300-400 l/ha).

More info - Night-time treatments

Farming ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of farming resources

Custom-made vineyards When designing a vineyard, it is essential to choose the kind of cultivation to use with the plants, so that they enter the production phase in optimal conditions and at the right time. In the Tasca d’Almerita vineyards, this choice is made on the basis of the characteristics of the soil (fertility, water availability, etc.), the local climate (availability of light, water and temperature during the growing and productive period) and also the variety and the type of wine desired. This choice enables us to reach ambitious sustainability goals in terms of maintaining our heritage of agricultural traditions and optimising the use of our resources. In 2000, a study of wine suitability (zoning) was carried out through surveys of Regaleali soil, the climate, vineyard exposition and the influence of these factors on the quality of the wines produced. The study provided

information that guides the design of new vineyards and especially the choice of varieties and rootstocks best suited to the plot of land, as well as information on best soil management practices.

Targeted management Continuous inspections in the field ensure the vineyards are managed according to their real needs. A system of cultivation is favoured whereby the leaf mass is well distributed and thinned to permit the passage of air and the capture of sunlight, thus helping to reduce humidity on the plants and consequently reducing the development of many diseases. To this end, pruning, trimming, leaf removal and thinning are performed regularly.

PruningIn 2016 we consolidated the way we carry out the winter pruning of plants, which is one of the most important

The 10 SOStain resources

NIGHT-TIME TREATMENTS

Social advantages- Lower probability of transit of residents or

by standers;

- Though night-time work is considered

taxing, the extremely hot weather make it

preferable even to the workers, as they find

wearing personal protec tive equipment

(overalls, gloves, masks, boots, etc.) more

comfortable.

DAY

Environmental conditions for the night-time treatments

NIGHT

Lower temperature(difference of 15°)

Lower wind speed(from 5 to 2 m/s) Higher relative humidity

(from 49% to 71%)

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ways to manage the balance between their vegetative and productive phases. All pruning operations are designed to respect the vines by reducing pruning frequency and seeking to maintain the fertility of the buds. To better achieve this goal, all pruning operations are completely manual, with no recourse to mechanisation. This allows us to

more precisely and artfully manage the different bud load based on the vigour shown by the plants.

More info - Zoning of the Regaleali Estate

Zoning of the Regaleali Estate, tool for greater awareness and the enhancement of wine production

The landscape of the Regaleali estate is typical

of high hills: great variability of soil, altitude,

exposure and, ultimately, microclimate.

This variability in the territory determines a

different qualitative response from the grapes,

related to the variety and the type of wine

desired. Grape quality is the result of complex

phenomena and interaction between the

genetic characteristics of the variety and the

peculiar characteristics of the environment in

which it is grown.

To better characterise and enhance the

product, it is crucial to consciously choose the

most suitable sites for the cultivation of many

varieties, which requires adequate knowledge

of the soil, climatic and crop conditions so

as to enable different vines to express their

winemaking potential to the fullest.

The choice of the most suitable sites for

growing vines in Regaleali has always been

based on the company’s experience and

traditional Sicilian viticulture. However,

in recent years, the introduction of new

international varieties, new cultivation

techniques and new demands from consumers

have created the need for objective tools with

a scientific basis to evaluate the productive

potential of the different soils – not only to


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adequately programme the facilities and

vineyard management practices, but also to

enhance the oenological products for sale on

the market.

Spurred on by these new demands, an

interdisciplinary research programme began

in 1997, aimed at the study of the territory and

enhancing awareness of the vine growing and

winemaking suitability of the Estate.

In brief, the project involved:

- Describing, on a smaller scale, the geological,

soil and climatic characteristics of the

More info - Zoning of the Regaleali Estate More info - Zoning of the Regaleali Estate

territory as a whole and their influences on

the agricultural and productive development

of the principally cultivated varieties. This

information constituted an indispensable

basis for recommending the farming practices

most appropriate to enhancing the quality of

production, to reducing agronomic management

costs and to protecting the landscape and the

viticultural agrosystem.

- Determining objectively which varieties,

including those grown most frequently in

the territory, expressed the best interactions

with the environment from the point of view

of production and quality, also with a view to

selecting a different oenological destination

for the grapes (for example, wines to be aged,

young wines or as a sparkling wine base, etc.).

The information obtained represented an

indispensable tool for the planning of new

facilities and for choosing the processing

techniques that could enhance the features of

existing products.

- Checking for any particular suitability of

the territory or portions thereof in order

to initiate the necessary procedures for

obtaining sub-denominations in the DOC

system of Sclafani County.

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Air ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of air resources

Renewable energySince 2011, two photovoltaic plants supply energy to the Regaleali estate. On average, the photovoltaic system provides 20% of the energy needed to produce a bottle of wine, which varies from year to year depending on climatic conditions and the quantity of grapes processed and wine bottled (scale effect).In 2012, two photovoltaic plants began working, used respectively for the commercial offices and the warehouses in Palermo. The energy produced by these two systems allows us to satisfy our consumption needs completely (warehouse and office areas). In 2015, furthermore, a solar thermal system to supply domestic hot water to the Regaleali farmhouse began operating. The plant, which began operation in early 2015, has reduced consumption by 13% – 84,000 litres of LPG compared with 84,901 litres in 2015 and 96,535 litres in 2014. This made it possible, in 2016, to save 2.41 tonnes of CO2 equivalents8.

Working the soil and mechanical input are reduced to the minimum The company is attempting to reduce working the soil and mechanical operations to a minimum, as well as the use of agricultural machinery that consumes fossil fuels. In 2016, 201 litres of diesel fuel per hectare were consumed, with a reduction from the previous year of 22.3%.

Production of photovoltaic energy and tons of CO2 saved – 2016.

8 Production of photovoltaic energy and tons of CO2 saved – 2016.

Solar thermal system: 2015 13% reduction in consumption,84,000 litres of GPL compared with 84,901 litres in 2014.In 2016: 2,41 T of CO2 saved.

2014 2015 2016

-13%

-2,41

*

* The emissions of CO2 equivalents were obtained using the emission factor for processed grapes and for bottled wine (UK Government conversion factors for Company Reporting – Overseas Electricity).


of consumption

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Energy ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of energy resources

Energy saving technologyAmong the many methods used for wine stabilization, the most frequently used is low temperature refrigeration, which consumes a lot of energy.In 2015, we began to use a technique based on ion-exchange resins that makes it possible to stabilize the wine without using cold temperatures, thereby accelerating the precipitation of tartrates and ensuring considerable energy savings.

Natural coolingThe company has cellars where recourse to artificial cooling can be reduced.

Increasingly eco-friendly technologyRefrigeration plants in the winery use R22 refrigerant exclusively. The Tasca d’Almerita company has now replaced older equipment with new refrigeration units that use refrigerants that do

not contain chlorine, and therefore do not damage the ozone layer and have a lower potential greenhouse effect (R407A, R404A, R134A). From 2012 to 2014, four out of seven refrigeration units were replaced and one was removed from service. In the selection of new refrigerators, the company opted for highly efficient machines which, according to theoretical calculations, should reduce electricity consumption by about 150,000 kWh per year. In 2015, the refrigeration distribution system was updated, and this allowed us to eliminate an additional R22 refrigeration unit. The update has ensured an even more efficient use of the new refrigerators, allowing us to further reduce energy consumption.

Natural ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of natural resources

Native vegetationOur green areas devoted to recreation and beauty have been designed in full respect of the local ecosystem. In these spaces, but also in the hedges and wooded areas, the native vegetation has been maintained since it is well adapted to local climatic conditions and tends to renew itself, evolving spontaneously and enabling the preservation of the original animal habitats.

Ban on hunting For many years now, the Regaleali Estate is among those companies excluded from the planned management of hunting.

Diversified environmentThe company’s estates have diversified environments that favour the biodiversity of flora and fauna necessary both for the quality of natural environments and for the safeguarding of genetic variation.Tasca d’Almerita thus safeguards the company’s biodiversity and seeks to enrich


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the natural assets present on each of its five estates; in 2016, it devoted 65% of the total area to viticulture. In fact, of the 651 hectares that make up the total area of the company, the maintenanceof the biodiversity of flora and fauna is ensured by the presence of pastures (about 5%), arable land (10%), olive groves (5%), forests (3%), uncultivated land (11%), and fruit trees (1%). These components, alternating with monoculture, embellish

the agricultural landscape without altering the centuries-old traditions of the territory.The Sicilian black bee has also been introduced to the Regaleali estate.It is a native breed of the island, very common until the 70s and then almost completely abandoned in the 80s, when it risked extinction because bee-keepers of the day had decided to replace it with the more common Italian bee (Apis mellifera ligustica), from which most Sicilian honey originates today.This bee not only safeguards biodiversity, but also allows us to produce honey, which has considerable antioxidant properties.

Indigenous wines Of the 40 grape varieties cultivated by the company, 12 are indigenous varieties, and this not only lets us produce unique and high quality wines, but also allows us to conserve biodiversity.

Recovery of ancient wheat varieties The biodiversity of the territory is also

protected through the cultivation of ancient varieties of durum wheat. In 2014, experimentation began at Regaleali with ancient durum wheat varieties which over time had been abandoned. The varieties used in the tests were “Senatore Cappelli”, “Russello”, “Tumminia” e “Perciasacchi”. In 2015, the flour made from them will be used in the kitchens at the Regaleali farmhouse. In addition, pasta from the “Senatore Cappelli” heirloom durum wheat variety was made especially for the kitchen of the Regaleali estate.

Experimental fields The company has made certain fields available to research institutions for experimentation, and selections of native vines, relic varieties, new grape varieties and new rootstocks obtained from crossings have been planted. In addition to the conservation of grapevine germplasm, these fields allow us to

assess the response of these selections to the growing environment and the quality of the wines obtained from them. Several vineyards have been set up in Regaleali using the selections of native varieties from these fields. In 2016, moreover, the grafting of a new rootstock resistant to droughts – approved by the University of Milan on the basis of the studies performed on these fields, among others – was commissioned.


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Territorial ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the management of territorial resources

Protecting the countrysideThe company also works towards making new improvements to the landscape that are coherent and integrated with recognised values, in order to increase the unrealised potential of the territory and contrast the neglect of rural land and buildings.The farmhouse around which the Regaleali estate was developed dates back to the 1800s, and all the elements of architectural and naturalistic value have been carefully maintained since then. Case Grandi and Case Vecchie, the two

limestone 19th century farmhouses, are surrounded by ornamental gardens with vegetables and orchards, full of native plants (rosehip, Retama retam and white broom) and rare aromatic traditional species (Pelargonium tomentosum, oregano from the Hyblaean mountains and basil from the Madonie mountains).Tasca d’Almerita also sponsors efforts to safeguard and enhance the landscape of the surrounding area. In 2016, the second edition of the #IoAmoLaMiaSpiaggia project was held, an idea conceived by Tasca d’Almerita to keep the free public

More info - The Comisana sheep

THE COMISANA SHEEP

The Comisana sheep, also known as Testa

Rossa (Red Head), originates from sheep

breeds in the southern Mediterranean,

but its breeding cradle is in Sicily. The

name “Comisana” comes from Comiso, an

agricultural centre in the province of Ragusa.

It is a medium-sized animal (50 kg) with short

white fleece. The herd is raised semi-wild:

in spring, it grazes freely in the hills, feeding

on fresh greens, while during food supply it

feeds on hay and legumes.

A recovered indigenous breed that until just a

few years ago was endangered, it possesses

a good amount of fat and strong yields of

cheese. The ricotta cheese produced is

healthy and very tasty.

28 Comisana sheeps are raised in the Regaleali Estate.

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beach in Mondello (Palermo) clean by donating money to purchase a Scam Cavalluccio beach cleaning machine, made available by the Reset company.For this reason, to raise awareness and to promote the cleaning of the free public beach – a collective asset of the community –, a box containing an article of trash collected on the beach of Mondello was sent to a sample group of Palermitans to underline the harmful path taken by waste: “All that lies close to the sea, sooner or later, returns to it.” The box that the citizens received was made

with FSC certified material and the bag containing the waste was biodegradable. The distribution of these packages was carried out with hybrid cars to reduce CO2 emissions.

Commitment to solidarity In addition, Tasca d’Almerita has been collaborating since 2012 with the Laboratorio di Sartoria Sociale (Social Tailoring Workshop), a project born from the commitment of the Al Revés social cooperative to promote the employment in creative endeavours of persons who


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have lived at the existential margins of society and seek a way back in. The Social Tailoring Workshop is a start-up composed of people, products and services in the field of restyling and upstyling of textiles and used garments, and Tasca calls on them to produce aprons, bags, wine glass holders, USB flash drive holders (made of cloth and recycled advertising banners), coasters (made of leftover labels and recycled cloth) and bags (made from old bed and mattress covers).

Support for local culture Tasca d’Almerita recognizes the value of culture for the growth of a territory and the development of its identity. For this reason, in 2016, it has supported a number of events organised by a few independent book stores in Sicily, as well as presentations of works of classical music organised by the “Friends of the Teatro Massimo”, which promotes the many activities of the Teatro Massimo of Palermo.

Together with the Friends of the Teatro Massimo Association of Palermo, Tasca d’Almerita has instituted the “Claudio Abbado” Prize for young musicians of the Conservatory of Palermo, to whom the company has donated two scholarships.

Promoting tourism in the territoryThe company seeks to promote the region through the creation of services, events and hospitality that reinforce Sicily’s appeal to tourists, aiming not only at bringing them to the island, but also at creating genuine motivation, feeling and emotion.The number of visitors to the various estates reflects the company’s commitment to promoting the growth of tourism on the island and, therefore, the territory’s ability to communicate its identity beyond its borders.

The Regaleali farmhouse, which opened its doors in 2012, has been classified as “3 spighe” (ears of grain) by the Sicilian

Region and thus as a top-quality rural accommodation; it welcomed about 1,995 tourists in 2016, with an increase in foreign visitors, who make up 80% of the total and come from all over the globe (45% from Northern Europe, 40% from

the USA, 10% from China and Japan and 5% from the rest of the world).To promote the surrounding area and allow visitors to discover it in complete freedom, in 2015, a network of 20 km of trekking paths was created on the estate,


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and it is also open to people on bicycle or out for a run. The network is divided into 3 different trails suitable for everyone and viable in any weather: the San Lucio path, the San Francesco path and the Grandi Vigne path are all visible on a map and clearly marked by special signs made of chestnut wood.

In 2016, the Capofaro Resort (Salina) welcomed 1,433 guests (665 Italians and 768 foreigners) and 4,931 visitors (2,229 Italians and 2,702 foreigners).At Capofaro, Tasca d’Almerita organises a series of events to promote tourism

and the geographical area. These include “Malvasia Day”, which was held in July 2016, the sixth edition. It promotes the territory of the Aeolian islands and their unique production of Malvasia. In 2016, several producers became exhibitors – not only local producers but also many coming from the islands of Panarea, Lipari and Vulcano.The Tasca Kitchen Project at the Capofaro restaurant meets sustainability criteria in food production by using local and traditional products that have not been processed industrially and are cultivated in the area of origin (Zero-kilometre). In the

same perspective, the kitchen uses only seasonal fruit and vegetables. The garden, planted and growing in Capofaro without the use of pesticides, provides 70% of the vegetables used in the kitchen.

Promoting the local territory and the common good Tasca d’Almerita is sponsoring several events to promote the local territory and its resources.In 2016, it participated actively in organising a day dedicated to Grillo, one of the vines that best represents the identity of Sicily. At Mozia, in the

splendid setting of theLagoon of Marsala (Stagnone), journalists and wine lovers had the opportunity to taste Grillo wines Doc Sicilia produced by 25 different companies from the local territory, and to attend a lecture by Professor Attilio Scienza, a prominent scholar of international viticulture, who spoke of the territorial origin of the grape variety, its name and distinguishing characteristics. Tasca d’Almerita also made the Regaleali Estate available to Shobha and Enrico Prada, two professional


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photographers, offering suites, food and wine for a workshop that used wine as a link between nature and photography. The participants, in return for the hospitality they received, donated a selection of their most beautiful photos, which became the centrepieces of an exhibition in the outdoor areas of the estate.

Commitment to the Common Good Tasca d’Almerita invented Cogito, an appetizer for the mind, a series of meetings aimed at collective discussion of controversial issues of public interest.

More info - Community involvement in a project aimed at the Common Good

COGITOan appetizer for the mind

WHATCogito is an observatory where people can

reflect on current reality and contemporary

cultural phenomena. A “social defibrillator”

characterised by optimism and focused

on promoting the Common Good. Starting

from Descartes’ famous expression cogito ergo sum, expressing the certainty that

man conceives of himself as a thinking

subject, Cogito is aimed at shared critical

reasoning, a “thinking together” in a space for

comparison and growth. For this reason, we

cogitate together: in friendly social spaces,

in conversations with writers, journalists,

intellectuals, artists, scientists, professionals

in the creative world, through audio-visual

projections, theatre performances, exhibitions

and tastings. Cogito intends to involve schools,

universities and associations. Dubium sapientiae initium: Doubt is the beginning of

wisdom. Cogito reflects and fosters reflection:

the future, Italian identity, the environment,

technology and artificial intelligence, school,

books and culture, art, discoveries and

mysteries, start-ups, food, tours, the family,

the universe, respect for others, etc.

WHYCogito aims to look at our reality in positive

terms and a perspective of continuous

improvement, to analyse cultural phenomena

so as to better understand them, creating

spaces of social cohesion and interaction

and opportunities for exchange. Having fun.


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More info - Community involvement in a project aimed at the Common Good

HOWCognitive actions (“cogitactions”!). A dynamic

interplay between host and interviewer, a topic

that isdebated and pondered with the help of

Cogitactors, a group of actors who will guide

the audience through the reasoning process.

After thought comes action: each participant

can become a social multiplier of an idea aimed

at a collective goal. Cogito ergo... I take action!

WHOTasca d’Almerita’s idea was to attempt to

enhance all that “lives” around the productive

system: the environment, the landscape, the

culture and the traditions of the community.

This “journey” materialised with the promotion

of events and cultural activities whose purpose

was to talk about what is good, interesting

and can grow the territory. The premier event

(Number 0), entitled “Everyone could”, was

organised in collaboration with the Teatro

Biondo on May 20 at Villa Tasca.

The “surprise” guest was journalist Michele

Serra. Event Number One, entitled “The choice”,

was held at the Teatro Massimo with the

participation of Simone Perotti, while event

Number Two, “The brain”, was organised at the

Marionette Museum with the participation of

Pietro Trabucchi. In February, “My organic way”

was conducted by Alfio Scuderi, with the aid of

Salvo Piparo, at the Ex noviziato dei crociferi.

Among the guests that evening was the blogger

Madame Pipi, aka Arianna Porcelli Safonov.

The real star of Cogito is the audience, with

its possibility to become a social multiplier

acting in favour of the Common Good. That’s

why at each Cogito event, we distribute to the

audience a small box with pumpkin seeds and

salt crystals. “Having a pinch of salt in your

pumpkin”, in Italian, means being smart, using

your common sense – an invitation to think

carefully about the world.

Human ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the sustainable management of human resources

TrainingThe cultural and professional growth of its employees is one of the company’s constant objectives, and so annual training programmes are organised for the workers. In 2016, in particular, a course entitled “Re-engineering processes and ICT for the companies in the food industry” was held. In 2016, company personnel attended several

Social responsibility and sharing Tasca d’Almerita has distributed a Code of Ethics to its employees to disseminate awareness of the principles and values that guide the choices and decisions of the company. These behavioural guidelines, in addition to improving internal cohesion and consistency, promote employee motivation to achieve shared goals.

Attention paid to vegan consumersAt no time during the entire winemaking process does Tasca d’Almerita use ingredients or additives based on animal proteins, thus reflecting the company’s attention and sensitivity to vegan consumers.

Year Number of accidents

Recovery in >15 days

2010 5 1

2011 10 3

2012 0 0

2013 2 1

2014 2 2

2015 1 0

2016 4 3

courses related to safety. The best proof of the company’s concern for safety is the low number of accidents recorded annually in the vineyard, the winery and the main offices.


Safety first

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Economic ResourcesTasca d’Almerita’s choices for the sustainable management of economic resources

A constantly growing company The company has grown both in quantity (+ 7.58%) and in turnover (+ 9.70%). Sales in both Italian markets (+2.10% in volume and +5.35% in turnover) and abroad (+11.47% in volume and +13.73% in turnover) have continued to extend the constant growth trend of recent years. In 2016 the company turnover has grown by 10.8% as compared to 2015.

The Business ProfitabilityCompany profitability increased by 121% in 2016, compared to 2015, and is another statistic attesting to the satisfying results achieved by the company in terms of economic sustainability. In 2016, the EBITDA (Earnings Before Interests Taxes Depreciation and Amortization), which measures the net profit before the interests, the levies, the taxes, the extraordinary items, the depreciations, the amortizations, has been by 18.4% and the employee EBITDA, which shows the extent to which each

employee contributes to the business net profit, amounted to 59.000 euros.

New and ongoing investments In 2016, the Company continued to invest in the development of the territories in which it works. Proof of this is the acquisition of a new estate of about 5.5 hectares with an adjacent winery in the Mount Etna area.

Quality and quantity of agricultural productionIn 2016, agricultural production was very good from a qualitative point of view, thanks to favourable climatic conditions. The quantity of grapes produced did, however, decrease by 8% compared to 2015, which was an exceptional year in terms of quantity. Average yields in 2016 were still 89.5 quintals per hectare, and are considered good and well above the average of the last 15 years (76.2 quintals per hectare).


Conclusions

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Conclusions

In 2017, Tasca d’Almerita obtained the SOStain and VIVA company certification that demonstrates the company’s commitment to respect a sustainability system based on qualitative and quantitative sustainability indicators designed for the local Sicilian context.The certification – issued by Certiquality, an independent entity accredited by Accredia – is a guarantee for all consumers who want to make conscious and informed choices. It demonstrates Tasca d’Almerita’s commitment to pursuing growth that is environmentally friendly, socially equitable and economically effective.

The certification The 2017 sustainability estimate

Sustainability is not a point of arrival but a direction in which to move forward, through large and small daily challenges. Continuous improvement over time should represent the principal objective of any sustainability programme, and indeed it is for SOStain, aimed at giving value to certain choices and commitments. In this programme, the true merit is not the achievement of positive economic and financial performance, but the creation of a heritage of environmental, social and economic services to be used by and shared with all parties involved.

In 2017, our commitment is to:1. Construct yet another photovoltaic plant – this one with a capacity of 100 kW – in the Regaleali winery, to increase the proportion of self-produced electricity from renewable sources.

2. Increase crop diversification and biodiversity by planting 500 almond

Conclusions

trees in a 2.5-hectares area on the Regaleali estate.

3. Conduct trials of different grass species to evaluate the convenience of increasing the permanently grass-covered areas on the Regaleali estate.

4. Obtaining the ISO 50001 certification,in order to create energy management systems that can continously improve the energy performance of the company.

V.I.V.A.CERTIFICATION

SOStainCERTIFICATION

www.sostain.itwww.tascadalmerita.it

sustainable development report 2016 - tasca d'almerita€¦ · sustainable development report...

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