Sustainability

Alwoodley Golf Club is proud to announce that it has achieved GEO Certified® for commitment and efforts to achieve a credible standard for sustainable golf course operation.

GEO Certification is assured by GEO Foundation – the not-for-profit organisation dedicated to delivering programmes that help people on the ground to evaluate, improve and credibly communicate their sustainability work across the agenda of nature, resources, community and climate action. GEO Certified is the symbol of a great golf environment, confirming that Alwoodley satisfies all GEO certification criteria; meeting a credible standard in the areas of nature, resources and community, and is committed to continual improvement. The comprehensive Certification Report provides a detailed account of the continued commitment made to maintain wider sustainability issues.

The club is delighted that this global accolade recognises the outstanding work of the course management team and clubhouse staff involved. Achieving this certification is just part of an ongoing commitment. Alwoodley is excited to continue striving for excellence in sustainable golf.

Nature

The club takes its role as custodian of the land very seriously and is committed to fostering nature. This is demonstrated by our sensitive management of all areas of our land, supporting excellent golfing facilities at the same time as supporting nature that relies upon habitat for its survival.

Resources

Conserving resources such as water and energy is important to the club. We have a wider responsibility to ensure we’re using as little as possible and trying to be self-sufficient. A great example of this is with our fine grass dominant turf, that relies on minimal inputs and surface disturbance. Water scarcity and costs are going to be increasing issues for golf. Golf courses should be designed, built and managed to conserve water, using the least required to produce healthy turf and firm playing surfaces. Where feasible, water for irrigation should be generated in situ, through recycling drainage, rainwater harvesting, irrigation reservoirs and other technologies. Where feasible, water derived from non-potable sources should provide the irrigation source. Grass selection should be targeted at species which are fit for purpose, but which require the least amount of irrigation water.

New gutters and a water storage system is to be installed at the greenkeepers’ sheds which will allow for harvesting of a significant amount of rain water to be reused where needed.

Climate Action

We take our environmental impact very seriously and have taken several measures to reduce our carbon footprint in and around the course to play our part. Changes to our rough management practices have reduced our fuel consumption by a third and we have also recently introduced the use of zero emissions equipment for maintenance.

Community

We’re always working on new ideas to be a better neighbour and create events that encourage members of the local community to interact with the club and course. This is evidenced by several charity fundraising events run each year and by our welcoming attitude to all using the facilities without any restrictions placed on dress code or membership.