STRI Group launched the Golf Environment Awards (GEAs) to recognise, reward and promote outstanding individuals and golf courses, for the time and effort they put into protecting and preserving their unique surroundings.
With the ever-increasing spotlight on environmental matters, it is fundamentally important for golf courses worldwide to assess what they can do to achieve environmental sustainability, protecting and encouraging habitats and biodiversity, while continuing to maximise the enjoyment of golf.
At a glittering ceremony in Harrogate last night, following day two of BIGGA’s Turf Management Exhibition in the town, the winners were revealed;
Operation Pollinator Award
Golf clubs who consistently deliver outstanding ecological habitat creation and management for pollinators.
- Corhampton Golf Club
Ecological Project of the Year
Golf clubs who have implemented a successful ecological project, with clear objectives and targets that contribute to a better environment and are making sound progress in fulfilling the goals of the project.
- St. Andrews Links Trust
Conservation Greenkeeper 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.
- Sleaford 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.
- Hever Castle Golf Club
International Environmental Golf Course
Golf clubs outside of the UK that brilliantly demonstrate efficient management across nature conservation, turfgrass, waste and water.
- Al Mouj (Oman)
UK Environmental Golf Course of the Year
Golf clubs in the UK that are leading the way in sustainability across nature conservation, turfgrass, waste and water.
- Nairn Dunbar Golf Links
All winners are rewarded with a grant to help fund further ecological and environmental projects at their clubs and entry to the Foundation Award in Amenity Horticulture Course.
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.