Vilamoura Golf reinforced its sustainability credentials when the stunning resort’s four courses were each awarded two of the highest ESG accolades in recognition of a dedication and commitment to biodiversity and strong environmental strategy.
The Old Course, Pinhal, Millennium and Laguna courses now all have GEO Certification and are Biosphere Certified after a number of projects garnered praise for their reduction in water usage and chemicals as well as respecting and enhancing the local environment in the Algarve resort.
The GEO Foundation confirmed all four courses achieved GEO Certified® status for their outstanding work to foster nature, conserve resources and support the community. GEO Certified® is the most respected certification for golf, based on a credibly and transparently developed modern sustainability.
The “Biosphere Certified” distinction is a certification that recognises destinations and organisations implementing sustainable tourism practices and is a guarantee they are fulfilling commitments related to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.
All four courses received warm praise from the GEO Foundation. Specific projects highlighted by the inspection team included improved irrigation systems, reduced water usage and chemical dependency, and fostering long-term ecological health.
The Old Course, the second oldest in the Algarve, was praised for its strong commitment to sustainability, and initiatives such as a new pump station to reduce energy consumption, a pine management program and its positive impact on local biodiversity, and a proactive approach to resource efficiency.
The Millennium was cited as ‘an example of environmental stewardship in the golf industry’ for its focus on water-efficient irrigation systems and strategic tree management as well as a determination to reduce its ecological footprint.
The Laguna received recognition for protecting local ecosystems as well as a renovated irrigation system, achieving a 20% reduction in water consumption, while the Pinhal was praised for its social initiatives, such as supporting golf education for young people and collaborating with local organizations to help create lasting positive impacts on the community.
The Vilamoura Golf courses are all overseen by the management platform DETAILS and co-CEO Nuno Sepúlveda said sustainability and enhancing the natural environment were the highest of priorities.
“Vilamoura has some of nature’s most stunning settings, and we feel a great weight of responsibility to make sure it not only is maintained but flourishes for generations to come.
“Understanding the importance of sustainability and avoiding waste of any sort is a key part of our business strategy and also increasingly important for our customers and visitors. We are grateful to receive these very prestigious accolades and are determined to ensure we continue to be the leader when it comes to setting a strong environmental agenda.“
DETAILS manages all Vilamoura Golf’s course operations, operating under the ownership of Arrow Global’s vision, and retain the goal of solidifying Vilamoura’s reputation as a world class sports and leisure destination.
Milestones include the rebranding of the Dom Pedro Vilamoura hotel to a Hyatt Regency, unveiling of the first Els Club in Europe, development of an international sports facility, and the renovation of the Equestrian Centre, which will return to the global showjumping circuit later this year.
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