Golf is enjoyed by millions of people and with almost 40,000 golf courses worldwide, the golf industry has an important part to play in protecting the environment.
With environmental issues being an important issue for society, many golf courses are achieving an increase in habitat varieties, improving playing experiences for golfers and providing a positive contribution to wildlife and the communities in which their members live and work which needs to be celebrated. The Golf Environment Awards (GEA) showcase the important work being undertaken by golf facilities to protect and enhance the environment and The R&A is supporting the event as its lead partner in what will be their 30th staging this year in Harrogate, England.
Rewarding process
The awards recognise, reward and promote outstanding individuals and golf courses, no matter how big or small, for the time and effort they have put into protecting and preserving their unique surroundings.Past award winners include courses recognised as R&A championship venues and golf course managers who have been awarded R&A Greenkeeping Scholarships. Six award categories recognise the golf courses and individuals who deliver outstanding environmental and ecological stewardship through sustainable management practices and projects.All winners are rewarded with a £750 grant to help fund further ecological and environmental projects at their clubs, entry to the Foundation Award in Amenity Horticulture Course, BIGGA membership for the Conservation Champion award winner and promotional materials to display across digital platforms.
Conservation award
The R&A is also supporting the Conservation Greenkeeper of the Year with a £750 Scholarship for their continued professional development, whilst the winning UK Environmental Golf Course of the Year and International Environmental Golf Course of the Year will be featured in The R&A’s multi-year study into golf and nature.Entries will close on Friday 13 September 2024. The winners will be revealed at the annual ceremony held in January 2025 during BTME week. Entry to the awards is completely free with the sole aim of encouraging every eco-conscious golf club to consider applying. Applications can be made here.
