Emirates Golf Club Honoured as Inaugural Winner of the European Tour Group's 2024 Sustainability Awards with Venues Award
Thursday 21st November; Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Emirates Golf Club, managed by Dubai Golf, has been named the winner of the Venues Award at inaugural European Tour Group’s 2024 Sustainability Award. Recognised for its exemplary commitment to sustainable practices and innovative environmental initiatives, the award celebrates the Club’s efforts to lead by example in the world of golf and beyond.
The Venues Award highlights Emirates Golf Club’s wide-ranging initiatives that prioritise ecological balance and environmental responsibility. These include:
- Car Park Solar Panels: The installation of solar panels on car park shades significantly offsetting the energy required to light the Faldo Course.
- Energy-Efficient LED Technology: Transitioning to LED lighting on the Faldo Course has reduced emissions by 60%, underlining the Club’s commitment to energy efficiency.
- Eliminating Single-Use Plastics: No plastic bottles are used on site, reducing waste and promoting reusable alternatives.
- Wildlife Management: Natural methods, in partnership with Wild Flight, such as falcons and hawks are employed to manage the crow population, balancing ecological needs.
- Recycling Initiatives: Carpets from hospitality facilities at tournaments are repurposed into drag mats for the Golf Course Maintenance team, and recycling bins are installed throughout the property to encourage sustainable waste management.
- Efficient Water Use: Daily moisture monitoring ensures precise irrigation, conserving water while maintaining world-class playing conditions.
- Habitat and Species Restoration: The Club actively supports initiatives to restore natural habitats and species. A notable achievement is the increase in the Arabian red fox population, a sign of a thriving ecosystem on the grounds.
The Club’s sustainability efforts go beyond operational excellence, championing biodiversity and eco-consciousness. Its role in hosting the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, the world’s first GEO-certified tournament, highlights its seamless integration of sustainable practices into prestigious events. In an incredibly competitive category, Emirates Golf Club stood out for its holistic approach to sustainability, combining operational efficiency with proactive habitat restoration to exemplify a forward-thinking commitment to environmental responsibility.
Matt Perry, Golf Course Superintendent at Emirates Golf Club, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, "Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at the Club, and this award reflects the passion and dedication of our team. From embracing innovative technologies to enhancing our natural surroundings, we are proud to be the benchmark for environmentally conscious golf operations."
Chris May, CEO of Dubai Golf, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the significance of the achievement, "Winning the European Tour Group’s inaugural Sustainability Venues Award is a proud moment for Emirates Golf Club and Dubai Golf. It underscores our continuous drive to integrate sustainable practices and reinforces our role as leaders in driving positive change within the golf industry. We remain committed to advancing these efforts for the benefit of our community and the environment."
This prestigious accolade affirms Emirates Golf Club’s role as a pioneer in sustainable golf operations. The Club remains dedicated to adopting innovative solutions and championing initiatives that contribute to environmental conservation while delivering an exceptional golfing experience.
