10 World’s Most Eco-Friendly Golf Courses

Sustainability is an ever-growing necessity in today’s world and golf courses are joining the global movement

In 2018, Forbes stated that 9 million tons of plastic infiltrate the ocean every year. Knowing that, golf courses all over the world are making conscious decisions to eliminate plastic. From the preservation of wildlife to promoting a low-carbon future, the golf community is making more and more changes to contribute to the worldwide movement to put the environment first.

An understanding of the natural world is a source of not only great curiosity, but great fulfillment.

– Sir David Attenborough, renowned biologist

Troia Golf, Portugal

One thing that differentiates Troia Golf from the rest of the golf courses is its biodiversity. With over 600 species present in the peninsula, Troia is a haven for wildlife. As a result of each species having a significant role to play in the ecosystem, the conservation of the environment is a priority at Troia Golf.

Silver Lakes Golf & Wildlife Estate, South Africa

Evidently from the name of the course, Silver Lakes is home to a variety of birds and wildlife. Floating islands have even been installed to create more breeding space! Additionally, recyclable waste, organic fertilizers, and the use of variable speed drive (to improve water consumption) all make up Silver Lakes’ efforts in conserving the environment.

Arabella Golf Mallorca, Spain

Arabella Golf Mallorca is one of the only golf courses in Spain with official sustainability certifications. The course has an extensive environmental plan to go plastic-free and reduce water consumption! For this reason, mineralized water fountains can now be found on the course. Golfers can refill water bottles during their round!

Osprey Point at Kiawah Island Resort, US

Osprey Point underwent a full renovation in 2014 and now has playing surfaces made up of Paspalum. This is a low maintenance turf grass which improves water management. Additionally, this type of grass leads to the use of natural groundwater without having to add chemicals products. Considering this, all courses in Kiawah Island Resort take environmental protection seriously!

Mission Hills Haikou, China

The world’s largest golf resort implements sustainable measures and is committed to promoting low-carbon, ecology, and environmental protection. Initiatives include the use of solar golf carts, artificial lakes to collect rainwater for future irrigation, waste management practices and the list goes on.

Sentosa Golf Club, Singapore

Sentosa Golf Club (SGC) sets the benchmark for all golf courses around the world. Initiatives include the recycling of rainwater, the use of bio-friendly products, lithium-ion buggies, and reducing their plastic footprint. What’s more, SGC conducts exchange sessions with local golf clubs to share their experience to revolutionize Singapore’s golf industry!

Emirates Golf Club, Dubai

Emirates Golf Club promotes sustainable measures by transitioning towards a low-carbon future and enhancing energy savings. As one of the latest destinations to house the EV Green Chargers in the city, golfers can leave their cars to charge whilst playing a round! Furthermore, the club is the first in the region to simulate daylight to create a unique night golf experience with LED light technology.

Laguna Golf Lăng Cô, Vietnam

Laguna Golf Lang Co stays at the top of its maintenance game by utilizing a unique group of greenkeepers: water buffalos. From bio-mowers to protecting the traditional Vietnamese landscape by eating excess weeds, these buffalos play an important role at the golf course – sustainably and innovatively.

Handara Golf Resort, Bali

The Handara Green Initiative invites guests to partake in a Green Lifestyle by contributing to the preservation of the natural environment on the course. This includes guests harvesting their salads from Handara’s own vegetable garden! Furthermore, sustainability measures comprise of the reduction of energy/water consumption and waste management.

Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah

Al Hamra Golf Club is the first golf club in the Middle East to go fully plastic-free! The course has eliminated plastic items and introduced high-quality water filtration solutions. With this, Al Hamra sets a new industry standard and joins the global movement to conserve the environment.