While working at Sanofi, I often heard the term ‘evidence-based’ medicine. Nowadays, its principles are applied in various other industries.
The concept asserts that management decisions should be grounded in a combination of critical thinking and the most reliable evidence available.
By “evidence,” we refer to information, facts, or data supporting or challenging a claim, assumption, or hypothesis.
As a head greenkeeper, I encourage you to take a proactive approach by not just accepting ‘best practices’ and the success stories of renowned experts and golf clubs at face value.
Instead, embrace the opportunity to critically evaluate the evidence’s validity, generalizability, and applicability before you.
EcoBunker & Circular Economy – Findings
A recent report from the Welsh government showcases the remarkable benefits of EcoBunker’s synthetically revetted bunkers, which have a significantly lower environmental impact than traditional turfed bunkers.
This report illuminates EcoBunker’s commitment to nurturing a circular economy and addresses the immense resources consumed in turf farming, including water, chemicals, fertilizers, and energy.
The report evaluated the application of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and disease-controlling chemicals to produce farmed turf.
On average, one hectare may require approximately 89 kg of nitrogen, 12 kg of phosphorus, 40 kg of potassium, and 92 kg of lime.
However, these amounts can vary based on geographical, soil, and climatic conditions.
Some of these substances can wash off into nearby water bodies, contributing to challenges such as algal blooms and declining marine biodiversity.
We can work toward healthier ecosystems by exploring more sustainable practices and reducing runoff.
EcoBunker founder Richard Allen added
“Not only do EcoBunkers use 100% recycled materials, the ongoing maintenance burden with the associated cost and resources, are slashed.
Finally, all but the top layer of naturally turfed revetted bunkers just don’t have enough access to light and soil to maintain a root structure. So, they gradually disintegrate and, on average, have to be replaced every 5 years.”