Green infrastructure impacts in winegrowing: A systematic map

Abstract

Viticulture for wine grapes (winegrowing) is an agricultural practice which when intensively conducted has negative impacts for the environment. Over the years there has therefore been a development toward more sustainable practices in winegrowing. The integration of green infrastructure, encompassing non-vine vegetation, water elements, and other human-made structures (e.g. nest boxes) offer potential solutions to these challenges, together with additional benefits for the production systems. We conducted a systematic map to understand the scientific evidence regarding impacts from green infrastructure interventions in winegrowing. In total, 380 publications were included based on relevant criteria, with 369 studies regarding vegetation elements. Many of the studies focused specifically on floor cover vegetation interventions, and biodiversity-related impacts have been given extensive focus in relation to all forms of green infrastructure. The study identifies opportunities to further explore impacts related to green infrastructures which are not floor cover vegetation interventions, and human-oriented impacts in relation to various green infrastructures. This includes operational, social, and cultural aspects. It would also be valuable to assess multiple impacts across the environmental, economic, and sociocultural dimensions within the same studies. Additionally, further studies could be undertaken in geographic regions which have up until now received limited coverage, including areas with younger wine production industries. In conducting our study, we recognise limitations related to the interpretation and boundary setting for the concept of green infrastructure. We also encourage further evidence collection on the topic by using additional databases, conducting searches in languages other than English, and applying alternative inclusion criteria.