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Golf Sustainability | Environmental Solutions to Keep the Game of Golf Sustainable for Future GolfersAuthor: John Failla
On a mission to drive positive change in the golf industry for a greener future! Host John Failla focuses on advancing the sustainability of both the environment and the game of golf for generations to come through valuable insights, meaningful connections, and inspiring stories. This passionate golfer, who has already played on 39 of the Worlds Top 100 Golf Courses, brings together industry leaders and organizations: Greg Nathan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Golf Foundation (NGF), Graeme Beatt, the Course Manager at Royal Portrush Golf Course in Ireland, Dave Barton, the executive director of the National Alliance for Accessible Golf, and many more. John and his guests are united by a shared commitment to the cause. Over the past 15 years, John has created, developed and sold two businesses focused on helping large private and public sector organizations accomplish their sustainability goals and navigate the energy transition to clean energy. Most recently, the research, digital media, events and podcasts created by John at Smart Energy Decisions have been widely recognized for their thought leadership and impact in helping large organizations achieve their sustainability goals and reduce their carbon emissions. John is leveraging his experience in corporate sustainability and his passion for golf in the development of Golf Sustainability as a resource to help accelerate adoption of best practices in environmental, social and economic sustainability within the golf industry to ensure the viability of the game for future generations. Be part of the movement for golf sustainability! Language: en Genres: Earth Sciences, Golf, Science, Sports Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Designing Golf Courses That Respect the Land
Episode 35
Wednesday, 25 February, 2026
Water sits at the center of golf’s sustainability conversation. In many regions of the world, it is no longer simply a resource to manage, but a responsibility to steward carefully. Modern golf course architecture increasingly reflects this reality, with efficient irrigation systems, precise targeting of playable areas, and a commitment to reducing unnecessary inputs. Yet sustainability extends beyond water. True environmental responsibility begins in the routing and shaping of the land itself. By limiting earth movement, preserving natural contours, and relying on materials already found onsite, architects can significantly reduce environmental disruption while enhancing authenticity. In many respects, this approach mirrors the philosophy of early designers who lacked today’s heavy machinery and were forced to work with the landscape rather than against it. The modern sustainability movement, in many ways, represents a return to golf’s architectural roots. By respecting the land, minimizing disturbance, and designing with intention, firms like Mackenzie & Ebert continue to shape courses that honor both the game and the landscape on which it is played. Golfsustainability.com
