Finca Cortesin exemplifies a strong commitment to sustainability as a fundamental part of its business strategy.
Its participation in the GEO Foundation OnCourse program since 2017 highlights a proactive approach, culminating in achieving GEO Certified status in 2023.
This journey showcases the dedication to sustainable practices and establishes a commendable standard in the golf industry.
The Nature Restoration Law (NRL) was implemented in 2024, representing a significant advancement in European ecosystem restoration efforts.
This regulation requires that European Union member states collectively restore a minimum of 20% of terrestrial and marine areas by 2030, aiming to revitalize all degraded ecosystems by 2050.
This highlights the remarkable value and significance of Finca Cortesin‘s unwavering commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.
The National Resilience Framework (NRL) prepares for 2025 when biodiversity is anticipated to emerge as a pivotal concern for businesses and public administrations.
This transition will shift from mere legislative compliance to implementing actionable strategies.
Finca Cortesin: Golf & Birds study
Finca Cortesin has recently released its Golf & Birds study, which spans a duration of 12 months.
During this period, ornithologists and environmental specialists conducted monthly bird censuses at 11 designated observation points located within the course’s playing and non-playing areas.
The study employed a comprehensive methodology that included over 73 hours of daylight observation, with variable durations for each session and an average of 30 minutes of observation per day.
The Golf & Birds study challenges the prevalent misconception that golf courses are merely artificial landscapes devoid of ecological significance.
Rather, the research conducted at Finca Cortesin demonstrates that, through responsible management practices, a golf course can serve as a vibrant and functioning ecosystem.
The Golf & Birds study represents Finca Cortesin‘s continuous commitment to enhancing biodiversity. The project aims to monitor biodiversity trends through annual assessments and continually improve sustainability strategies.
Here are the key findings from the study that can provide valuable insights for golf clubs around the globe.
Key findings of Finca Cortesin’s study
- 65 bird species were identified, reinforcing the course’s role as a biodiversity hotspot and a valuable refuge for migratory birds.
- 3,807 total sightings were recorded, showing sustained avian activity across the grounds, indicating a stable ecosystem.
- Seasonal migration patterns were mapped, confirming the course as a strategic rest point for birds traveling between Europe and Africa.
- Significant nocturnal activity, with confirmed sightings of Eurasian eagle owls and little owls, proving that the course plays a role in sustaining wildlife beyond daylight hours.
- Diverse habitats: The course features high vegetation diversity, with native Mediterranean flora providing multiple microhabitats for birds and other wildlife.
- Water resources: Two lakes, totaling 11,500 m², serve as both irrigation reservoirs and vital bird habitats.
Final Thoughts
This study highlights the potential of golf clubs to serve as safe havens for birds and other wildlife, demonstrating that preserving native habitats can significantly boost biodiversity.
Additionally, golf clubs can play a vital role in minimizing their environmental impact by implementing sustainable water practices and embracing pesticide-free groundskeeping.
Let’s rise above excuses for not addressing biodiversity and sustainability. Every step we take is a crucial stride toward protecting our environment for generations to come.