Joining the Initiative

Any golf facility in Canada, regardless of location, size or type can join the initiative, and all are encouraged to get involved! A dedicated sustainable golf pathway has been set up for clubs, starting with an easy and free Sustainable Golf Pledge; then moving into the free OnCourse Canada program - an educational online program which clubs can use to review, plan and track their best practices and key performance data. If clubs want, annual Sustainable Golf Scorecards, which include a detailed carbon footprint, are provided. For clubs that want additional recognition, a 3rd party verified certification (GEO Certified®) is available for leadership in sustainable golf. Further awards and distinctions are being designed with partners in Canada and the pathway also dovetails well with other National and Provincial voluntary environmental programs.

Benefits to Your Staff And Club

The pathway and programs have been designed over many years to deliver tangible benefits to all types of golf facilities.

These Include:

Education -

OnCourse® is a great way for staff teams to gain new insights, understanding and ideas on how to build sustainability into their decision making. It's a great resource for education in the workplace, especially over the winter.

Cost Savings and Funding -

New best practices and ideas lead to immediate cost savings and efficiencies for clubs - across major areas of expense such as energy, water, waste and materials - on and off the course. Some careful naturalization can save thousands of dollars year in and year out. Designing larger capital projects through a sustainability lens can lead to significant future-proofing and wise investments that can also be supported by public and private sector funding.

Marketing and Communications -

Being a greener and more sustainable golf facility is a benefit for the local community and government. Adopting and displaying the Pledge is an easy way to let staff and golfers know that you are committed to important environmental and community issues and that you are part of a national industry initiative. Being fully certified is an achievement to promote strongly to your audiences.

Enhanced Golf Courses and Landscapes -

Working with nature can lead to courses that are more resilient to weather extremes, and enhanced golfing landscapes that are even more memorable for golfers.

Start by making the Sustainable Golf Pledge today and become part of a growing network committed to positive change.

For more information, contact CGSA today at 1-800-387-1056.