John Clarkin: Transforming Golf Course Sustainability
Syngenta Turf & Landscape
Expert insights and innovative solutions for the turf and landscape industries
“We need to get word on the street about the true sustainability of golf courses”, says John Clarkin , who explains the importance of educating the public to help eliminate misconceptions about golf’s environmental impact.
In the latest episode of the Growing Golf podcast, host Gary Firkins sits down with the founder of international agronomy consultancy, Turfgrass, to explore the delicate balance between environmental and economic sustainability that golf course operators have to navigate.
With a career spanning five decades, John has established a strong reputation as one of Europe’s leading golf course development and management advisors, blending his lifelong passion for golf with a commitment to environmental stewardship.?
During the conversation, John highlights the critical turf challenges facing the industry today, and how working with organisations such as GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf can help clubs promote the environmental benefits of golf.??
He also shares insightful stories from recent high-profile projects, including how Turfgrass has transformed Adare Manor into an environmentally sustainable Ryder Cup venue, and the innovative water management systems at Italy’s prestigious Castiglion del Bosco.
We also learn about John’s personal journey in the golf industry, his deep-rooted passion for sustainable development, and the exciting future of Turfgrass.
Listen or watch the episode now:
Listen on Apple Podcasts: John Clarkin on transforming golf course sustainability
Watch on Youtube: John Clarkin on transforming golf course sustainability
Useful Links
Connect with our guest
Connect with us
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with your friends in the golf community.
Don’t forget to subscribe to Growing Golf for more inspiring stories and industry insights!
Thank you for tuning in to Growing Golf. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the people, stories and strategies that are shaping the future of golf.
Principal at Phil Smith Design
1 个月Well Done John!
Director Sales and Relationship Management EU Region
1 个月Well said John Clarkin an important aspect of golf today and into the future
Director at PASTE Architects/PASTE Golf Design
1 个月John Clarkin is one of golf’s larger than life characters that many in the golf course industry know - a privilege to know him ????I agree we need to spread the word regarding the true sustainability of golf courses
President at Pointfive Golf Company LLC, NA
1 个月We don't care how you sugar coat it, but the fact of the matter is, the standard golf course as we know in today's eco-conscious world is quickly going out of favor due to it's unstainable & unsatiable use of water and other resources (not to mention the time & cost to play). Considering that the average standard golf course takes approximately 150 acres of land, then it makes economic sense to reduce the game down to more relatable size, at least where the average golfer is concerned. Over 30 years ago our Pointfive Golf Company realized the fact that smaller resource & time saving golf courses were the answer to the delimina we now face. As a result we produce a new line of "proportionally" correct (Pointfive Pro-Play MD) golf balls matching the length of smaller golf facilities. This ball allow the average golfer to experience the same full game of golf in half the time on courses 1/3 to 1/2 the size. Tested & played by thousands of golfers of all levels on hundreds of courses, this ball improves the measure of play making the game much more environmentally acceptable.