Moët & Chandon celebrates biodiversity milestone with 60 new planting projects

The historic Champagne house Moët & Chandon has celebrated the fourth edition of its "Biodiversity Days" with the launch of 60 new planting projects in the Marne and Aube regions of eastern France. This initiative is part of the company's ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation in the Champagne vineyards, supported by the Chamber of Agriculture of Marne, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), and the Grand Est region.

The primary goal of the project is the planting of one kilometer of tree hedgerows on agricultural plots in the Côte des Blancs, managed by a partner winegrower of the maison. These plantings aim to connect two key biodiversity reserves: the Saran forest and the Montagne de Reims forest. By creating these ecological corridors, various animal and plant species will be able to move and feed more efficiently, supporting the continuity of their natural cycles.

This effort is part of Moët & Chandon's Natura Nostra program, launched in 2021 as a comprehensive initiative to combat climate change and restore biodiversity in the Champagne region. The maison aims to plant 100 kilometers of tree hedgerows by 2027, with 55 kilometers expected to be completed by 2025. The program seeks to balance local ecosystems, prevent soil erosion, and improve water retention in agricultural areas.

Sibylle Scherer, president and CEO of Moët & Chandon, emphasized the importance of collaboration in such initiatives. She highlighted that working closely with interprofessional organizations, partners, and public authorities facilitates the sharing of innovations and best practices to create a positive impact across the Champagne region.

For more than two decades, Moët & Chandon has prioritized environmental protection in its operations. On its own land, 35 kilometers of tree hedgerows have already been planted, and the maison has actively engaged its 2,400 winegrower partners in the Natura Nostra program. The response has been positive, with many winegrowers receiving personalized support from Moët & Chandon's technical teams. These teams provide guidance on environmental analysis, plot design, species selection, and assistance with funding applications at both regional and European levels.

The project also involves agroforestry experts, including the Grand Est region and its agroforestry initiative "Grand Est Agroforesterie," which provides funding access for farmers and suppliers. The Chamber of Agriculture of Marne contributes technical expertise, while the specialized nursery Pépinière Quatre-Champs "Forêts et Paysages" selects local species to ensure healthy growth of the plantings.

In addition to their direct biodiversity benefits, the hedgerows help preserve water quality in catchment areas and stabilize soil on sloped terrain, reducing the impact of heavy rainfall. The diversification of planted species extends the flowering period, offering a prolonged food source for wild pollinators while also enhancing the Champagne landscape.

This multifaceted approach underscores a long-term commitment to sustainable viticulture, demonstrating how environmentally respectful practices not only contribute to ecological balance but also strengthen the connection between the winemaking community and its natural surroundings.