2025 04 23 Donnafugata for Sustainability
For over 30 years Donnafugata has been committed to sustainability, integrating it in every production phase – from the cultivation of vines to packaging and through to human resource management – via a set of principles that combine responsible farming practices with energy efficiency and the protection of biodiversity.
In 2025 Donnafugata produced its 1st Sustainability Report, a document drafted on the basis of a reporting process which monitors the progress it has made and guarantees its stakeholders – customers, partners and local communities – comprehensive information on the sustainability path it has undertaken.
The company pursues 9 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2023 UN Sustainable Development Agenda with tangible actions that cover environmental, social and governance considerations.
Environmental Sustainability
Sustainable Management of Resources. Donnafugata adopts eco-sustainable practices, limiting the use of agrochemicals and implementing integrated pest management techniques. The company uses only organic fertilisers, avoiding any chemical herbicides, and managing weeds using mechanical and manual methods.
Having calculated its Carbon and Water Footprint for several years, in 2021 the company adopted the SOStain Foundation guidelines dedicated to the Sicilian winemaking industry and, at the same time, the VIVA certification programme together with its 4 indicators (Air, Water, Vineyard and Territory). In 2024, the Air indicator recorded direct emissions of 439.86 tCO2eq and indirect emissions from electricity consumption of 508.33 tCO2eq, while the Water indicator highlighted the company’s commitment to the sustainable management of water resources.
Environmentally-friendly materials such as wooden posts and bamboo stakes are used when planting new vineyards, and tests have been carried out on biodegradable materials for binding the plants, reducing the use of plastic.
Conservation of Biodiversity and indigenous varieties. Around 16% of the company’s surface area – equal to 98 hectares (242 acres) – is dedicated to natural spaces, creating habitats for local species and preserving biodiversity. Donnafugata promotes low environmental impact farming practices, including green manuring with legumes and organic fertilisation. In this way it aids the fertility and conservation of the soil, also contributing to improving the balance of ecosystems and biodiversity. The Randazzo Estate is located in Etna natural park, while those of the district of Khamma and Barone are in the national park of the Island of Pantelleria.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources. The company constantly monitors the energy efficiency of its processes and has implemented an energy management system according to the ISO 50001:2018 standard. In 2024, electricity consumption per litre of processed wine was reduced to 0.50 kWh – well below the 0.7 kWh/l limit established by the SOStain Foundation guidelines. Donnafugata also produces over 300 kW of energy from photovoltaic systems. Considering both self-produced and purchased energy, 95% of the energy used by Donnafugata comes from renewable energy sources.
For the future, Donnafugata is committed to further improving its emissions performance thanks to the construction of new buildings built in accordance with energy efficiency principles.
Management of Water Resources. In a region known for its low rainfall, Donnafugata has adopted advanced water management techniques like drip irrigation in those vineyards where it is possible.
Sustainable packaging and circular economy. In 2023 Donnafugata introduced the Nomacorc Ocean closure, made from recycled plastic, and adopted the lightweight “Cento per Cento Sicilia” (‘100% Sicilian’) bottle, made mainly from recycled glass and produced on the island by O-I Glass according to a design developed by the SOStain Foundation: a virtuous example of the circular economy. In 2024, 59% of the 750 ml bottles were “lightweight” (410 g), contributing to lowering the company’s carbon footprint.
In addition, all cardboard used is FSC-certified, guaranteeing the responsible management of forests.
Social Sustainability
Gender Equality and Training. Donnafugata is committed to guaranteeing equal rights, conditions, responsibilities and growth opportunities to all its employees. In line with Donnafugata’s close focus on gender equality, there is a strong female presence across the company’s management positions. In a traditionally male-dominated sector, 40% of Donnafugata’s leadership roles are held by women as compared to the farming industry average of around 31%.
The company invests in the continuous training of its workers, offering professional growth opportunities and creating an inclusive working environment.
Community Relations. The company plays an active role in the community, contributing to the local economy also through its wine tourism and wine culture activities, first launched back in 1993. Donnafugata also promotes cultural and social initiatives through collaborations with various organisations and institutions: the “Giuseppe Nenci” Award presented by the Scuola Normale Superiore of Pisa, the “Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa” International Literary Prize, and the “Positive Impact City” project for the guaranteed mobility of vulnerable categories. Last but not least, the company also supports the University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo and the FAI – Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano (Italian National Trust), of which it is Corporate Golden Donor.
Quality Certification. Since 2000, the company has acquired various quality certifications, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 50001, confirming its commitment to protecting the environment and the sustainable management of resources, and ISO 22000 certification, which guarantees the quality and food safety of its products.
Governance. The Donnafugata Board of Directors (consisting of 2 members of the family and 2 external members) undertakes to monitor the company’s performance and ensure its decisions are also in line with the principles of sustainability.
