Date of Graduation

Fall 12-12-2025

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSEM)

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

First Advisor

Simon Scarpetta

Abstract

Climate change is already impacting the California wine industry through increases in extreme weather, such as prolonged heatwaves and atmospheric rivers. For the industry to survive, it is important for California wineries to mitigate the effects of climate change and adapt to current and future impacts. Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions (i.e., emissions generated throughout the supply chain) from glass packaging make up 29% of a typical California winery's carbon footprint, representing both the largest Scope 3 climate impact and greatest opportunity for reductions. This research examined key factors shaping California wineries’ Scope 3 emissions reductions efforts. A mixed-methods approach was used to conduct a policy analysis of emerging climate disclosure regulations, evaluate Scope 3 emissions reductions practices in the beer and global wine industries for transferable practices, and develop a case study of a large California winery to evaluate approaches to emissions reductions. Policy analysis revealed that California climate regulations are unlikely to encourage Scope 3 emissions reductions. SWOT analysis determined increased recycled content and reusable glass bottles represent opportunities for emissions reductions. Case study analysis demonstrated that supplier engagement is both the most important and most challenging component of value chain emissions reductions. To reduce Scope 3 emissions, policy makers should create incentives for target setting and reductions, such as fee reductions for climate action plans and create or restore funding opportunities for glass manufacturing decarbonization projects.

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