Lomond Wine Estate is situated on The Agulhas Plain near the southernmost tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas. Lomond’s vineyards were planted on previously cultivated land within sight of the ocean. This maritime climate ensures that the vineyards are kept cool which results in late ripening intense fruit. Lomond is actively involved in the bigger conservation landscape, being the first SA Wine Farm to enter into a Conservation Servitude with Fauna and Flora International to ensure the long-term preservation of the critically endangered Elim Ferricrete Fynbos and Overberg Sandstone Fynbos.
We use the CCC carbon footprint calculator to identify the main contributors to our carbon footprint. We use the calculator to track our progress and to refine our processes. For example, to reduce our carbon footprint we will focus on tractor trip efficiency, following the weather forecast to lower spraying frequency, only irrigating during times of solar power availability, and automatic light switches – Lomond Wine Estate
Conservation of the critical endangered Elim and Overberg Sandstone Fynbos is the cornerstone on which Lomond Wine Estate has based their farming practices. All of their farming and winemaking practices are designed to reduce the impact on the environment, a key measurement being the determination of their carbon footprint.
Lomond makes extensive use of solar energy and batteries. From irrigation pumps to the winery, tasting room, and offices, to the staff houses, are all supplied with renewable energy to some extent.
Lomond makes use of Farmtrack, an agricultural vehicle tracking system to track speed and idling. The farm has optimised their harvesting and spraying practices to increase fuel efficiency, and use fuel efficient motorbikes on the farm.
Lomond has a compost heap, and practices mulching with oats in new blocks. Organic fertiliser is used in addition to inorganic fertiliser to increase fulvic acid for nutrient uptake, and lignosulphonate is used for better active uptake of fertiliser.
High pressure water reducing sprayers are used for cleaning in the cellar and this water is recycled for garden irrigation. Lomond conserves water with drip irrigation and uses probes/soil moisture sensors to ensure optimal irrigation of vines.
All waste is sorted and recycled appropriately. Organic waste, including grape skins, are composted.
Cover crops and compostable plastic along plant rows reduce weed growth, leading to a reduction in herbicide usage and improvement in soil health. Composting will be implemented directly on the rows in the near future.
Lomond actively conserves the critically endangered Elim and Overberg Sandstone Fynbos. Invasive species are controlled through controlled burns and manual clearing, employing independent contractors for the initiative.
Through this digital recognition platform, we celebrate the Carbon Heroes taking part in the Confronting Climate Change (CCC) Initiative for their considerable effort in calculating and understanding their carbon emissions.
Each Carbon Hero has their own digital QR code that can be displayed on their website and other marketing material, linking directly to their individual profile on the Carbon Heroes website.
The QR code provides a simple and innovative way for customers to learn about each Carbon Hero’s carbon offsetting and other sustainability initiatives, as well as engage with them on social media and other marketing channels.
With the Carbon Heroes QR code we aim to support a global transition towards sustainable development by recognising and celebrating the positive environmental impact of each Carbon Hero. By having a transparent display of their commitment to reducing emissions, Carbon Heroes demonstrate their dedication to a sustainable future, while building trust in their brand.
Find out more about the Carbon Heroes and CCC
Carbon Heroes is a recognition platform built on the ethos of transparency and trust. While only emissions datasets graded by Blue North qualify for the platform, we do not independently verify all the information our Heroes choose to post. By signing up to the platform each Carbon Hero acknowledges that they are responsible for the information they share and that, by sharing their sustainability credentials, their information is in the public domain and open to be scrutinised. We welcome such scrutiny. We have a clear set of guidelines for the use of the platform and the qualification for the various digital labels, and reserve the right to revoke the use of the platform where it is found these guidelines are not being followed and/or the information posted is misaligned with the stated ethos. Thank you for helping us maintain the integrity of the Carbon Heroes platform and our efforts to promote greater transparency and sustainability.
