South Africa scores at first Green Awards for drinks

Dr Paul Cluver

Designed to highlight and reward leadership on environment, sustainability and climate change by drinks companies worldwide, the highest accolade of the event was the Lifetime Achievement Award, which went to Dr Paul Cluver, founder of Paul Cluver Wines, for his ongoing, visionary approach to conservation and exemplary environmental credentials.

Inge Kotzé of the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative was awarded the Personality Award and Backsberg walked away with the Sustainability Award. Paul Cluver Wines and Stellar Organics were named runners-up in the Ethical Award category, giving South Africa a notable presence in four of the eight award results.

Commenting on the success, Su Birch, CEO of Wines of South Africa (WOSA) said: "This is a significant moment in the development of South Africa's green credentials and we are delighted so many of our champions are being recognised for the substantial contributions they are making to the advancement of sustainable practice in the wine industry. South Africa is a leader in production integrity and is committed to working in harmony with the environment to ensure long-term sustainable and profitable growth."