Sustainable golf course operations are not a marketing gimmick anymore. It is a strategic imperative. At the same time, a matter of survival, and a customer obsession enabler as well as an integral part of business risk.
Some analysts say that the latest investments in sustainability are motivated by the demands of investors. The Al Zorah Golf Club (Ajman; since 2015; with a par-72 golf course, designed by Nicklaus Design) is joining now the community of GEO Certified golf clubs.
To help preserve the local ecosystem, the landscaping of Al Zorah Golf Club was produced using local grass species that are well adapted to the desert climate, such as Platinum Paspalum, a warm season grass that is drought and low-quality water tolerant qualities.
The site is home to more than 2 million square meters of mangroves, 58 bird species, and marine life. The Troon-led agronomy team also employs two full-time technicians to conduct irrigation audits twice per year to ensure the protection of the local mangrove forests and surrounding area.
Al Zorah Golf Club also grows fruit and vegetables in a small orchard on-site that are used throughout the club’s dining facilities.
Philip Henderson, General Manager of Al Zorah Golf Club, said:
“The Nicklaus Design team protected the natural environment while creating the golf course, which embraces one million square meters of mangroves.
With that, we have a great responsibility to preserve and develop a vast range of marine life, migratory bird species, and plants that are native to the area.”
Al Zorah Golf Club encourages golf for children and promotes a substantial junior program throughout schools in the surrounding area. Aside from golf, the club encourages local residents throughout the year to participate in mangrove cleaning and tree planting initiatives, with great success.
Hector Forcen, GEO’s accredited independent verifier said
“Exemplary irrigation practices make possible the high-quality playing surfaces throughout the year by reusing the community’s wastewater.
These and many other practices continually raise awareness and education within the community, staff, and membership.”
Al Zorah Golf Club’s management team has also proactively developed and educated its staff on the importance of sustainable best practices to better the environment through regular training and information sharing.