Wentworth’s courses achieve sustainability award

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Wentworth Club, home of the BMW PGA Championship, has been awarded an international sustainability certification in recognition its commitments to the environment and local community.

The ‘GEO Certified’ accreditation by the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) is the international standard in course sustainability and reflects that Wentworth has met the ISEAL member certification standard.

VIRGINIA WATER, ENGLAND – MAY 23: A general of the 18th green on the West Course during a practice round prior to the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth on May 23, 2017 in Virginia Water, England. (Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)

Verified by an independent auditor after a site-visit verification, the accreditation focuses on three main areas: Wentworth’s commitment to nature, conservation and natural course materials; responsible use of energy and waste; and positive community value.

The assessor cited a recent significant heathland restoration project on the site, woodland development activities as well as technology maximising water and energy efficiency as prime examples of the sustainability commitment.

Wentworth’s work in partnership with the Surrey Wildlife Trust was noted as key contributors to the accreditation’s community values.

Kenny Mackay, Wentworth Club’s director of golf courses and grounds, said: “Wentworth’s ambition is to be the world’s premier private golf and country club and sustainability is absolutely key to this, while also being something demanded by our members.

Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images

“We have been working tirelessly to ensure all three of Wentworth’s courses not only remain in top condition, but do so in a way which is conscious of the local environment.”

Jonathan Smith, CEO of the GEO and member of Greenkeeping magazine’s editorial advisory panel, said: “Golf facilities can play a very important role in protecting biodiversity and providing value to local communities. Wentworth shows recognition of the importance of this and takes actions to ensure they provide a positive social and environmental impact. We look forward to seeing them continue to develop their sustainability initiatives and partnerships over the months and years to come.”

The 18th green during practice for tjhe BMW PGA Championship. (Photo by Andrew Redington / Getty Images)

Fredrik Lindgren, head of corporate responsibility and sustainability at the PGA European Tour, said: “Sustainability plays such an important role in delivering a world class event like the BMW PGA Championship and we are delighted Wentworth Club has achieved the GEO Certified status. We look forward to collaborating on more initiatives and programmes in the coming years.”