The National Golf Course Owners Association Canada (NGCOA Canada) and the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) have announced an important new program which will extend further support and recognition to facilities for sustainability and climate action.
This long-term project is being delivered by the two Canadian associations in collaboration with the GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation, which is the international not-for-profit entirely dedicated to establishing golf as a leader in this field.
Core components of the initiative include:
- Free provision of GEO’s OnCourse Program for sustainable golf facilities and course management
- Access to annual Sustainable Golf Scorecards and Carbon Footprints
- Communications strategies that spotlight golf’s positive environmental stewardship
- Creation of a valuable industry data bank to support golf’s positive story
- Annual awards and internationally accredited certification
- Aligned strategies, goals and member support from both NGCOA Canada and CGSA
“The rapid movement in sustainability is fundamentally critical to the future of golf, and in particular the ability to successfully operate golf courses”, stated Jeff Calderwood, CEO of the NGCOA Canada. “This initiative delivers new solutions supporting management efficiency, the popularity of our game throughout Canada, golf’s positive brand, and the long-term profitability of our golf businesses.”
“Climate change and loss of biodiversity are concerns across society and, as land managers, we have an important role to play,” added Dustin Zdan, President of the CGSA. “This program provides recognition for the stewardship work that our superintendents deliver, while our industry demonstrates to society and governments that golf is an effective environmental leader.”
The GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation has been supporting golf in more and more countries around the world each year. Jonathan Smith, executive director of GEO, was very supportive of expanding their support in Canada.
“Congratulations to the NGCOA Canada and CGSA for stepping forward and demonstrating this sustainability commitment,” said Smith. “The programs, tools and recognition are purely designed to help facility and association leaders to better review and quantify what they are already doing; to identify areas for further focus; to build more effective communication plans; and to accelerate their profile as a climate conscious community of golf businesses.”
In parallel to this golf course operations initiative, it should be noted that Golf Canada is also demonstrating leadership by working with partners such as GEO for sustainability programs at the RBC Canadian Open and the CPKC Women’s Open, as well as their own Amateur events. Collectively, the Canadian golf industry is positioning the sport and industry very effectively for the future of sustainability.
Golf course operators and superintendents are advised to watch for further details and participation opportunities being released by both the NGCOA Canada and CGSA.