The Australian Wine Research Institute

The Australian Wine Research Institute believes in sustained innovation and commitment to a profitable, environmentally responsible grape and wine sector. We recognise the high priority of environmental issues for the Australian grape and wine sector and are committed to research in this area, as well as the provision of information and support tools. We are adopting a broad-based approach to dealing with the challenges of climate change and sustainability. Our vision is one where economic stability and environmental sustainability go hand in hand in a profitable partnership that is carefully maintained by collaborative, constructive action.

Building energy and water management support tools

Amidst the uncertainty of climate change and water shortage, it is essential for business and environmental sustainability that natural resources are sourced and managed as efficiently as possible. The AWRI’s process knowledge is meeting this need with engineering tools and process guides to support carbon footprint, site audit, and Life Cycle Analysis activities.

A range of information resources and search tools can be accessed via the navigation bar at the left of screen. You can search the AWRI’s dedicated Environment Literature Collection, use the Environment Search Portal to search across multiple relevant websites in one place, browse a range of specially-selected Environment links by topic or view fact sheets on related topics.

Other areas where research and development are currently underway include:

Developing energy efficient practices

Process areas where high impact improvements are often found include refrigeration, process heating and waste heat recovery, air compressor performance and wastewater treatment. The AWRI is working to develop interactive tools and case studies to highlight efficiency gains and overcome adoption barriers that impede uptake of these opportunities.

Developing renewable energy technology

Opportunities exist to add value to winery processes and waste streams through renewable energy technology such as biomass electricity, liquid biofuels and solar thermal systems. The AWRI is currently researching the use of grape marc as a fuel source for low-emissions renewable power generation, and is also investigating bioethanol and solar thermal co-generation and tri-generation options.

Enabling technologies for water management in the vineyard

The AWRI, in conjunction with its partners within the Wine Innovation Cluster, is developing innovative rapid spectral measurement methods that can be used to improve the management of valuable soil and water resources.

For more information on the AWRI’s environmental research, services or tools, please contact the AWRI’s Process and Environmental Engineer, Dr Richard Muhlack, by phone: 83036600 or email: sustainability@awri.com.au