What are some ways to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into golf course marketing?

1 Audit your current practices

The first step to market your golf course as environmentally friendly is to audit your current practices and identify areas for improvement. You can use tools such as the Golf Environment Organization's (GEO) OnCourse program, which helps you measure and document your environmental performance, or the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf, which provides guidance and certification for wildlife and habitat management. By auditing your current practices, you can set realistic goals, track your progress, and communicate your achievements to your customers.

2 Highlight your green initiatives

Once you have implemented some green initiatives, such as water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction, or biodiversity protection, you need to highlight them in your marketing materials. You can use your website, social media, newsletters, brochures, or signage to showcase your environmental efforts and achievements. You can also use stories, testimonials, or awards to demonstrate your commitment and credibility. For example, you can share how you have reduced your water consumption by installing a rainwater harvesting system, or how you have enhanced the wildlife habitat by planting native species.

3 Educate and engage your customers

Another way to market your golf course as environmentally friendly is to educate and engage your customers about your green practices and how they can contribute. You can use your staff, signage, or digital platforms to inform your customers about the environmental benefits and challenges of your golf course, and how they can help by following some simple guidelines, such as repairing divots, avoiding littering, or using reusable water bottles. You can also create opportunities for your customers to participate in your green initiatives, such as volunteering for a clean-up day, joining a birdwatching tour, or donating to a conservation project.

4 Partner with local organizations

A further way to market your golf course as environmentally friendly is to partner with local organizations that share your values and goals. You can collaborate with environmental groups, community associations, or educational institutions to support their causes, promote their activities, or offer your facilities. For example, you can sponsor a local environmental charity, host a fundraiser event, or provide discounts for students or teachers. By partnering with local organizations, you can increase your visibility, credibility, and goodwill in your community.

5 Seek external recognition

The final way to market your golf course as environmentally friendly is to seek external recognition from reputable sources that can validate your efforts and achievements. You can apply for certifications, accreditations, or awards from organizations such as the GEO, the Audubon International, or the Green Globe, which have rigorous standards and criteria for environmental excellence. You can also seek endorsements, reviews, or ratings from customers, media, or influencers who can spread the word about your golf course and its green credentials.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?