GEO
GEO (Golf Environment Organization)
Golf courses play an important role in the preservation and development of nature and open space. The Dutch Golf Federation (NGF) endorses this and promotes golf courses to obtain the so-called GEO certificate. After obtaining this, sustainable management of golf courses is realized as golf course managers deal consciously with nature and the environment.
Tespelduyn, in the center of the bulb region, wholeheartedly endorses this vision and was awarded the GEO certificate in 2018. A re-inspection takes place every five years in which the agreed work plan is reviewed and new sustainability agreements are established.
GEO certificate
A third party with independent inspectors performs the comprehensive on-site inspections
Meeting certification requirements requires continuous attention to four areas of concern:
- Methodology
- Nature
- Environment
- Society
Three phases can be distinguished in the implementation of the program:
- Inventory of the existing situation
- Developing a vision that identifies the goals to be achieved
- A work plan describing how, when and at what conditions the vision can be realized.
GEO certifications are recognized worldwide. The GEO headquarters is located in Scotland. "GEO certified" is the symbol of outstanding sustainable golf course management all over the world.
