Programme eco-rates SA golf courses

AN eco-rating programme has been introduced for golf courses in South Africa. Dubbed the Fairways Eco-Rating Programme, the initiative was launched by the Heritage Programme to address the negative environmental and social perceptions that have been created about the development and management of golf courses, estates and facilities. The Fairways Programme recognises current environmental and social activities at participating facilities by awarding one of three ratings and provides advisory and consulting services to golf facility managers and owners in an effort to recognise, improve and manage their impacts more responsibly. “Fairways represents a unique approach to the impacts of golf facilities in a way that ensures long-term change to the benefit of owners, players and local communities alike. By recognising and managing the way in which golf facilities operate, we believe Fairways can contribute to improved perceptions of the game and of golf facilities in general,” said md of the Heritage Environmental Rating Programme: Greg McManus. Natalia Thomson (nataliat@nowmedia.co.za)