How golf is shaping a greener future
Golf, traditionally seen as a leisurely and luxurious sport, is increasingly confronted with societal and environmental challenges. Over recent years, concerns have been raised about its extensive land use and resource consumption, particularly against the backdrop of the UK’s housing crisis and environmental issues.
In 2013, Colin Wiles of Shelter highlighted that the UK’s golf courses occupy 2% of its land, a stark figure given the country’s housing needs. By 2022, these environmental concerns were further amplified by extinction rebellion protests against Spanish golf courses for their high water usage during droughts.
Despite these challenges and a backdrop of complex global socio-political issues, as seen in the 2024 merger of major golf tours with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, golf has experienced a resurgence post-Covid. BRS and GolfNow reported a significant increase in golf rounds played in 2022, totalling 24.7 million across 1,500 clubs, an 84% rise from pre-Covid levels. Even with a slight decline in memberships due to the cost of living crisis, the sport’s popularity continued to grow into 2023.
In response to the growing scrutiny and its own burgeoning popularity, the golfing sector is earnestly adopting sustainability measures. Initiatives like the golf ball roll-back aim to reduce the sport’s environmental impact. The commitment to sustainability is increasingly evident in golf course operations and planning, particularly in the context of the UK’s new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirement. This mandate, effective from January 2024, demands developments to leave the natural environment in a measurably better state, meaning it is improved by at least 10%.
Golf courses are embracing environmental mandates by converting underutilised, low‑biodiversity areas into rich ecosystems to meet BNG requirements. This approach can enable on‑site development through planning and the sale of ‘biodiversity units’ to external projects.
However, these changes entail a 30-year commitment, potentially impacting future planning and property values. Access to expert advice is crucial for successful implementation and maximising ecological benefits, particularly in transforming spaces like underused car parks or redundant facilities into valuable biodiversity assets.
Partnerships with local governments and environmental organisations, and seeking professional consultation are proving fruitful in enhancing biodiversity and gaining recognition. Bigbury Golf Club’s collaboration with the Devon Wildlife Trust and its endorsement of Devon County Council’s climate declaration led to a new lease agreement and reduced ground rent, exemplifying the benefits of proactive environmental stewardship.
Sustainability in golf is not just a matter of compliance but also a strategic business decision. Berkhamsted Golf Club’s introduction of a new butchery room and a locally-sourced menu has not only reduced costs in the immediate term, but is also expected to be financially beneficial in the long run. Similarly, Bigbury Golf Club’s installation of solar panels and waterless urinals demonstrates that sustainable practices can lead to substantial savings and positive environmental impact.
Moreover, the adoption of the Golf Environment Organisation Certification (GEO) by golf courses highlights their commitment to sustainable management and environmental stewardship. This certification, awarded by the GEO, not only bolsters the clubs’ environmental credentials but also offers commercial advantages. In the property market, certified sites may in time see a ‘green premium’ in rents and value, appealing to institutional investors and aligning with contemporary values of sustainability and environmental consciousness. For players, it allows them to choose eco-friendly golfing experiences, aligning with a growing trend towards sustainable lifestyles.
In conclusion, the golf industry is actively navigating its way through environmental and societal challenges. By embracing sustainability, golf courses are not only addressing these concerns but are also enhancing their business viability and contributing to a more responsible and environmentally conscious sector.