Marriott Golf expands environmental program

Marriott Golf recently announced that its environmental program will be expanded internationally because of its success in 2008.

Last year, 24 Marriott Golf-managed properties in North America, along with a signature property in the Caribbean, became Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries. The expanded program will require 17 international golf properties to become certified by the end of the year.

Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries, which enable golf facilities to protect the environment by enhancing natural areas and wildlife habitats, are part of a systemwide commitment by Marriott International to promote environmental stewardship. In order to achieve certification, a golf facility is required to demonstrate that it is maintaining the highest degree of environmental quality in many areas, including environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, outreach and education, chemical use reduction and safety, water conservation and water quality management.

“With so much success in 2008, expanding the program to include our international properties was the next logical step and truly elevates our position as an environmental leader in worldwide golf course management,” said Robert Waller, senior director of grounds for Marriott Golf. “We are committed to promoting the game of golf in an eco-friendly way and working with Audubon allows us to do that while also maintaining the integrity of our premier courses.”