Mission Statement
By aiming the golf industry towards a beyond sustainable future, Greener Golf reimagines what golf is and what golf can be. Rooted in the foundational principles of respect, responsibility, and integrity, Greener Golf focuses on creating golf courses that serve as catalysts for social connection, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment. We aim to transform golf courses into vibrant, accessible green spaces that provide public benefits such as wildlife habitats, ecosystem services, and opportunities for recreation and economic development. Our mission is to facilitate positive change in golf and society through the reconnection and partnership with nature.
Source: Random Golf Club
Why Greener Golf…
In the early days of golf, it was a low-impact game that left natural landscapes nearly untouched and inherently sustainable. Early courses, like Scotland’s Old Course at St. Andrews (est. 1552), thrived with minimal maintenance, proving that sustainable design can stand the test of time.
After World War II, the golf industry shifted. Advances in fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation created a way to pristine courses, but they were environmentally costly. This industrial approach increased operating expenses and fueled gold’s reputation as an exclusive, resource-intensive sport.
Today, many courses are redefining golf course functionality by balancing environmental stewardship, community engagement, and economic sustainability. Golf courses like Goat Hill Park and The Preserve Golf Club, both in California, actively work to restore ecosystems by enhancing biodiversity. CommonGround Golf Course in Colorado and Bandon Dunes in Oregon empower communities by prioritizing local employment and community involvement. Courses can also improve environmental stewardship by introducing regenerative practices, such as reducing chemical inputs and fostering healthy soil. These improvements can help courses cut costs while protecting the environment.
So how do we fit in? At Greener Golf, we envision a future where golf courses act as responsible community members. By integrating with and giving back to their host communities, courses can provide benefits, opportunities, and experiences.
Environmental Benefits: Carbon sequestration, effective stormwater management, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Economic Opportunities: Job creation, local business partnerships, and skill-building programs.
Inclusive Experiences: affordable access and community-centered recreational spaces.
The next chapter of golf isn’t just about excellent playing conditions; it's about creating courses that respect the land, uplift communities, and embrace a sustainable future.
What Greener Golf Means…
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What It Means: Permaculture design utilizes three fundamental ethics - care for the earth, care for people, and fair share. These three ethics work together to inform decision-making and design processes
How We Use It: We apply permaculture ethics as the guiding principles in all of our golf course design and management work.
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What It Means: The benefits of golf should be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of background, age, or skill level.
How We Use It: We work with golf courses to become multifunctional spaces that benefit both golfers and non-golfers alike. By creating inclusive designs and offering opportunities beyond the game, such as walking trails, wildlife habitats, and community events, we ensure that everyone in the community can enjoy the physical, mental, and social benefits that these green spaces provide.
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What It Means: Golf courses should serve as community hubs, offering more than just a place to play – they should bring people together and partner with local community organizations.
How We Use It: We help courses engage and support their local communities. This includes hosting educational programs, environmental stewardship initiatives, and events that bring people together. By making golf courses hubs of community activity, we ensure they become spaces where everyone—golfers and non-golfers alike—can connect, learn, and thrive.
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What It Means: Sustainability in golf requires forward-thinking solutions and the adoption of new technologies
How We Use It: We push the boundaries of golf course management by implementing the latest sustainable technologies. This includes precision irrigation systems, renewable energy sources, and data-driven land stewardship techniques. By staying at the cutting edge of innovation, we help golf courses reduce their environmental footprint and operate efficiently.
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What It Means: Sustainability in golf requires forward-thinking solutions and the adoption of new technologies.
How We Use It: We push the boundaries of golf course management by implementing the latest sustainable technologies. This includes precision irrigation systems, renewable energy sources, and data-driven land stewardship techniques. By staying at the cutting edge of innovation, we help golf courses reduce their environmental footprint and operate efficiently.