The influence of golf on nature and environment – analyses and evaluation of the environmental performance in Scandinavia

Summary

During the last 10 years, the Scandinavian Golf Federations have focused on sustainable development to find more environmentally-friendly ways to establish and manage golf courses. The different countries have different goals and level of ambition for the work being carried out.

This study aims to assess i.) the current status of environmental management on golf courses by interviews, ii.) the results achieved so far, and iii.) the impact of a golf course on biodiversity, landscape and water environment. Cases studies describe the practical work at 3 golf courses in Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Experiences from working with environmental management at these golf courses and in the golf industry in general, has led to suggestions, recommendations and indicators that will help to document results in the future.