The UK Golf Federation (UKGF) is proud to announce its supporting partnership with Environmental Solutions International (ESi) to advance environmental management and sustainability across the golf sector.
This collaboration underscores UKGF’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices and supporting the industry in navigating environmental challenges.
Representing over 1,200 owners and commercial operators of proprietary golf facilities throughout the UK, including Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, the UKGF is uniquely positioned to influence key decision-makers within the golf industry. With access to an extensive communication network, UKGF ensures that its members, who are predominantly owners or directors, receive crucial insights and updates on sustainability initiatives.
A Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Golf
Tony Hanson, Managing Director of ESi, brings nearly 40 years of experience in the golf sector to this partnership. As a Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) Sustainability Associate since 2012, Hanson has conducted approximately 60 GEO verification audits. His expertise, combined with ESi’s extensive collaborations with the Grounds Management Association and the Race Course Association, makes this partnership a natural fit.
A Comprehensive Approach to Environmental Stewardship
Through this partnership, UKGF and ESi will deliver a range of services designed to help golf facilities enhance their sustainability efforts.
Key initiatives include:
● Representation and Influence: UKGF and ESi will work closely with legislators and regulators to ensure the interests of the golf industry are represented in environmental policymaking.
● Educational Workshops and Seminars:
UKGF members will have access to workshops and seminars focused on sustainability, compliance, and opportunities presented by changing regulations. ● Structured Programmes: A structured programme will be developed to guide golf operators in improving energy efficiency, achieving water resilience, benchmarking emissions, and confirming carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions.
The collaboration also aims to address pressing issues such as water abstraction license reductions, a challenge faced by many golf operators. ESi’s involvement as a consultee in the development of the Environment Agency’s National Framework for Water Resources, alongside its work with the Regional Water Resource Groups, positions the partnership to offer valuable guidance on water resource management.
Operational Focus Areas
UKGF and ESi will develop and deliver a series of practical workshops and seminars covering essential topics, including:
● Resource Efficiency: Energy efficiency, waste management, and water resource planning.
● Natural Environment: Promoting the ecological benefits of golf, enhancing natural habitats, and exploring opportunities for biodiversity net gain credits and carbon emissions offsets.
● Community Engagement: Highlighting the social benefits of golf, including mental and physical health, charity events, employment opportunities, and contributions to the local economy.
● CO2 Emissions Benchmarking: Providing tools for golf operators to calculate and manage their emissions, track progress toward carbon neutrality, and engage suppliers in sustainability efforts.
Tracking Progress and Building a Sustainable Future
As data from UKGF members grows, the partnership will establish a regular reporting mechanism to track progress against key sustainability metrics. This data will help golf facilities benchmark their performance, identify areas for improvement, and work towards shared sustainability goals.
“Working towards sustainable golf is not only a responsible environmental choice but also an opportunity to build a stronger and more environmentally conscious golf community,” said Tony Hanson, Managing Director of ESi. “Over time, these efforts will contribute to the well-being of communities and the planet, while showcasing the numerous benefits provided by the golf sector.”
The UKGF and ESi look forward to collaborating with every one of UKGF 1,200 members to create a more sustainable future for golf.
