The 29th Golf Environment Awards (GEAs), hosted by STRI Group, took place yesterday on Wednesday 24th January during the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition week in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

The coveted awards ceremony was attended by UK and international golf clubs to celebrate and reward industry professionals who dedicate their time and energy to protecting and enhancing the environment.

Golf courses represent 33% of the UK’s open space, and when managed properly can significantly enhance biodiversity, conserve rare habitats, and be a leading sector in promoting positive environmental practices.

Tina Jessop, Head of Brand and Communications at STRI Group commented, “The GEAs shine a light on the impressive work from each finalist, and we hope these awards will continue to empower all golf clubs to begin implementing environmentally sound practices on their courses.”

With six awards up for grabs, each with a strict criteria, the winners are revealed…

Operation Pollinator Award

Awarded to golf clubs who consistently deliver outstanding ecological habitat creation and management

  • Huntercombe Golf Club

Ecological Project of the Year

For golf clubs who have implemented a successful ecological project, with clear objectives and targets that contribute to a better environment.

  • Canterbury Golf Club

Conservation Champion of the Year

Outstanding individuals who make significant contributions to the success of environmental and ecological management making a positive impact on the surrounding landscape and biodiversity.

  • John Milne, Garmouth and Kingston Golf Club

Sustainable Project of the Year

Golf clubs who have implemented a successful sustainable project with clear objectives and targets that contribute to a more sustainable environment.

  • Royal Dornoch Golf Club

International Environmental Golf Course

Golf clubs outside of the UK that brilliantly demonstrate efficient management across nature conservation, turfgrass, waste and water.

  • Golf della Montecchia, Italy

UK Environmental Golf Course of the Year

Golf clubs in the UK that are leading the way in sustainability across nature conservation, turfgrass management and waste and water management.

  • Colmworth Golf Club

All winners are rewarded with a £750 grant to help fund further ecological and environmental projects at their clubs, a visit from an agronomic consultant, 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.

**Available to UK and Ireland winners only

A huge thank you to all the finalists and, of course, the sponsors who make the awards possible – Aquatrols, BIGGA, Syngenta, Tillers Turf, Textron and the R&A.