Bollinger – champagne with soul, sustainability and history
Challenges for a classic producer in a new era
In the Champagne wine region, climate change is a reality. Warmer temperatures, unpredictable precipitation and increasingly extreme climatic conditions affect both grape ripeness and product quality. For a champagne house like Bollinger, which has a style characterised by precision, structure and elegance, it is crucial to be able to adapt to changing conditions without losing its unique character. Sustainability issues do not stop at the climate: the environmental impact from production, transport and packaging also requires attention and action. In addition, awareness of social sustainability is growing, i.e. how employees feel, what conditions prevail in the vineyards and how the operations affect the local community.
A strategy for sustainable development
In 2022, Bollinger launched its sustainability strategy under the motto “people, soil and roots”. It is a long-term plan that includes environmental, social and cultural aspects that guide the work until 2029, when Bollinger celebrates its 200th anniversary. The work has been ongoing for a long time, but gained new momentum in 2023 when Bollinger, as one of the few champagne houses, became B Corp certified. The certification involves an independent review of the company’s work in areas such as climate impact, working conditions, governance and transparency. This is clear proof that Bollinger is not just keeping up with developments – they are pioneers.
Climate work in practice
One of Bollinger’s focus areas is to reduce its carbon footprint. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% in scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 2029, compared to 2019. Renewable energy is already used in production, and internal logistics are powered entirely by renewable HVO fuel. The result is increased efficiency and a significantly lower carbon footprint. The packaging will also be reviewed with the ambition that all components will be recyclable and made from recycled material by 2029. At the same time, the weight of the bottles must be reduced by at least 7%. Together, these efforts contribute to reducing emissions from both transport and glass production.
Sustainable vineyard cultivation
Climate adaptations are also taking place in the vineyards. Bollinger works actively to improve soil health and implement climate-resilient cultivation methods. Since 2016, they have not allowed the use of herbicides in cultivation: instead, cover crops, grassy rows and natural land management are used. This benefits both biodiversity and the soil’s ability to bind carbon. 20% of the tractors are electric, while the rest run on HVO – a renewable, fossil-free diesel produced from waste and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by around 80%.
Environmental considerations at every stage
Bollinger is one of the pioneers in environmental certification. All their own vineyards are certified according to High Environmental Value (HEV) and Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV), two of France’s most recognised environmental standards. In 2014, Viticulture Durable en Champagne (VDC) was also added to strengthen the company’s sustainable wine-growing. At the same time, intensive work is underway in production with a focus on energy efficiency, reduced waste and circular processes. Bottles, labels and cartons are being revised to be more recyclable and resource-efficient.
Responsibility for people and heritage
For Bollinger, sustainability also means taking care of people inside and outside the company. Preserving traditional crafts such as barrel binding 5, remuage 6 and manual disgorging 7 preserves a unique cultural heritage and specialised know-how. At the same time, these professions create jobs and contribute to pride and cohesion in the local community. In 2012, the house became the first in Champagne to receive the prestigious Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV) label, a state award that celebrates French companies known for their exceptional industrial and craftsmanship expertise. The working environment is an important focus for Bollinger – the focus is on good working conditions, training and development with special emphasis on safety, inclusion and well-being. The Madame Bollinger Foundation has a mission to care for both people and the planet. It supports social and environmental initiatives that contribute to strengthening and creating long-term resilience in the various regions. Priority is given to the projects that exist in the areas where the Bollinger Group is established, with the aim of strengthening collaboration and local engagement.
5) Barrel binding is the production of oak barrels. 6) Remuage involves tilting and turning the bottles by hand to collect yeast precipitate. 7) Manual disgorging removes the cork and sediment and a new cork is inserted.
Responsible bubbles
At Bollinger, sustainability is a foundation for the future, both for wine and heritage. Environmental and social commitments are closely linked to the quality of the wines and the preservation of the craftsmanship. Through its three pillars “people, soil and roots”, Bollinger strives for continuous improvement and long-term viability. They combine classic craftsmanship with sustainability and contribute to a champagne where quality and responsibility go hand in hand.
