Golf courses worldwide can play an essential role in helping communities address the defining environmental challenges of our time, says Jonathan Smith, founder of the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf.
Smith believes golf courses have a unique role in promoting nature restoration, improving resource efficiency, cutting carbon emissions, and creating social value.
He also sees growing potential for partnerships with local communities and government, opening up new funding opportunities to tackle both local and global challenges. This approach, he suggests, can also reshape golf’s public image by highlighting the positive impact courses have on community wellbeing.
In the latest episode of Syngenta’s Growing Golf podcast, released during Sustainable Golf Week, Smith calls on golf clubs to act now, warning that failure to do so could threaten long-term success.
"You've got to go out there and tell people what you're doing, what your commitments are, what your actions are and what results you're generating," says Smith.
Speaking to host Gary Firkins, Smith also addresses the perception that sustainability is costly for many clubs. He notes that by tapping into GEO Foundation's free OnCourse program, they can find a range of no-cost, low-cost and cost-saving solutions to get started.
He also highlights potential for grant funding or public and private partnerships if clubs can align their sustainability goals with those of their community.
"The biggest success we see with clubs is where they make sustainability integral to their overall decision-making," he added.
Tune in to learn more about Jonathan’s journey into the industry, and how golf clubs can successfully balance the needs of people, planet and profit.
Listen on Apple Podcasts: Jonathan Smith on how to succeed in sustainability
Watch on Youtube: Jonathan Smith on how to succeed in sustainability
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