Remaining sustainable is a life-long exercise. What we do at the golf facility to be sustainable today may not be enough in 10 years’ time. To remain sustainable, golf facilities need to be able to adapt to changing global, national and local circumstances; facing up to challenges under their control and those beyond their control, for example fluctuations in financial markets, legislation, climate change and societal behaviour.
Sustainability covers an extremely diverse range of issues, as indicated to this word map:
For The R&A, sustainability is all about securing the future for the sport of golf. It is an important issue for The R&A; as a global governing body we are committed to working for golf, supporting the sport internationally. This includes promoting the development and management of sustainable golf facilities.
A sustainable approach for any golf facility will deliver greater profitability. This will be achieved through reduced costs, increased income and greater efficiency. However, greater profitability will only be
achieved through the delivery of a quality product, commensurate with the cost of the service. The benefits that a sustainable approach brings will offer customers an enhanced experience every time they visit the golf facility. The experience reflects the ambience of the golf course; a relaxing venue in an attractive setting – providing both physical and mental well-being.
Golf needs to work on its image. The opinion of government, environmental lobbyists and the public is important and golf has to be seen to be delivering positive value with regards to its impact on nature, resources and communities. Golf’s sustainability agenda also needs to be aligned with government policy, and The R&A’s global positioning is probably best reflected in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Golf is a high-profile sport, through televised tournaments and tourism. The R&A is the organiser of The Open, the oldest of the four golf Majors. We, and other influential bodies, need to persuade those within the sport to follow a more sustainable path. We need to use the evidence provided by golf facility operators to convince those outside the sport that have some control over its development that golf is worthy of their support because it is a responsible land user and that it contributes positively to the environment and society.
The R&A is taking a lead by implementing a sustainability programme for The Open, which is known as GreenLinks. Its aim is to deliver an increasingly sustainable championship through its venues, staging and legacy. The Olympics in 2016 and 2020 will be another great showcase for sustainable golf. The International Golf Federation (IGF), which represents golf at the International Olympic Committee, has its own statement on sustainability.