Silos and the Environment

Carbon Neutral

 

In 2007 Silos Estate outlined a three year plan to become fully self sufficient in energy needs and address unsustainable production practices.  This goal was achieved in mid-2010, with the Estate actually becoming carbon neutral for its energy needs in mid-2008.

All energy for the winery, accommodation and cellar door is generated via solar or wind power (100% renewable energy sources); all old and/or inefficient lighting and appliances have been replaced; all glass and paper is recycled; where possible all food waste is composted and its production process for viticulture and wine making completely redesigned (it is a non-irrigating vineyard; has removed all known environmentally damaging chemicals/sprays; use low carbon bottles for wine packaging etc.).

Silos Estate has now reduced its environmental footprint to such an extent by generating its own energy, it is anticipated that the Estate will soon be carbon negative i.e. sequester or offset more carbon than it emits particualrly when combined with it’s tree planting program (over 3,000 trees planted since 2007).

Silos Estate has also taken major steps in the use of water.  All guests now use rainwater in their rooms, while all waste water is treated and recycled for use elsewhere on the Estate.  Silos Estate also does not irrigate its vines – one of the few wineries in Australia which doesn’t.  Each year, Silos Estate now saves hundreds of tonnes of CO2 emissions and tens of thousands of litres of water.  Coupled with our native tree planting program, this has dramatically reduced the ecological footprint of the Estate.

We very much want our visitors to have a worry free (and guilt free!) stay – and by and large, these environmentally sensitive measures have had no direct impact on our guests.  In fact, a number have chosen to adopt some of the measures we have implemented back at their homes locally and overseas.

And if you are coming by electric vehcile (EV) – we have a complimentary charging station for you to use – 10AMP or 15AMP is supported (and sourced only from renewable energy).  We recommend you call ahead on 02 4448 6082 so that we can book in a slot for you.

Carbon Offsets

 

Silos Estate has also implemented an initiative whereby guests are able to use carbon credits to offset their emissions from driving to and from the Estate.  Based on calculations provided by the Australian Greenhouse Office, guests can have a small charge added to their bill which is used to offset their emissions by planting a tree.  Since the program commenced, dozens of trees have been planted and will be used to offset guests’ carbon emissions many times over.

In addition, Silos Estate now also offers carbon neutral weddings, where the entire carbon footprint for a wedding can be offset.

Environmental Awareness

 

Silos Estate is also proud to be a leader in environmental efforts in the region and was a founding participant in Earth Hour and Business Treading Lightly. The Estate is in the process of certification as the first EntWine Vineyard on the South Coast.  While we know that these activities sometimes appear to be more style than substance, they all help raise further awareness of environmental issues by living the ‘think global, act local’ promise.  Silos Estate is also a multi-award winner in its sustainability work – and we are more than happy to share with you our knowledge and experiences – for you to take and use at your homes.