Author(s):
Terrance Anthony* - Portland State University
Abstract:
Landscapes can be viewed as expressions of the historical interaction between social systems and ecological systems, which co-evolve through continual exchange of materials and information. Inherent in this evolution is a 'learning' process whereby systems at various scales incorporate feedback from previous action into subsequent action in order to maintain elements of competitive advantage and resilience. In industrial systems, this process is embedded in the practice of environmental management. Agricultural industries have a disproportionate impact on the environment because they are intensive users of land and water. In recent years the global wine industry has emerged as a leader in collaborative approaches to environmental management. This paper examines the nature and evolution of environmental management in Oregon viticulture, in terms of industry best-practices and their rates, patterns and extent of spatial dissemination. Particular attention is given to the adoption of protocols for voluntary environmental certification, including integrated pest management, biodiversity and carbon neutrality. Geospatial statistical analyses reveal there to be a core group of firms that pioneer most new practices, but this core group cannot be significantly linked to any specific aspect of geography, firm structure, product, or process. This suggests key roles for the firm's competitive strategy and the values of the management team. Future analyses are needed to provide a basis for understanding how to promote adoption and innovation of environmental management best-practices in other agricultural industries, scales at which they appear effective, and the value of the ecosystem services they generate.
