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Golfclub De Palingbeek

Golfclub De Palingbeek

Hollebeke, Belgium

Sustainable Golf Pledge

We are committed to social and environmental responsibility, in and through golf.

We recognize the importance of playing our part to protect and restore nature, conserve resources, take climate action and strengthen communities.

We will seek to use our reach to raise awareness and positive action amongst golfers, partners and the wider public.

We will make an important difference, and help golf become a valued leader in sustainability.

GEO Certified

Through becoming GEO Certified we have achieved the most widely regarded and credible sustainability distinction in golf.  The international certification was earned after successfully meeting the industry-standard best practices and demonstrating our commitment to make sustainability of central importance to our golf facility.  We're proud of our social and environmental value - and looking forward to doing even more on our sustainability journey.

2019, 2022, 2025, for renewal 2028

Notable Observations

  • Site-Wide Habitat Mapping with NGOs A comprehensive site management plan (2021) was developed with local NGOs and authorities, with the entire site mapped and habitats referenced, guiding management across all habitat types.
  • Exceptional Species Recording Effort More than 14,000 biological observations covering 1,800+ species are logged on Waarnemingen.be , documenting flora and fauna presence and trends over time.
  • Orchid Conservation with Proven Results Active orchid conservation projects are in place and described by the verifier as delivering impressive results, supported by tailored mowing and habitat management.
  • Integrated Protection of Amphibians and Deer Specific initiatives are in place to protect salamanders and local deer, embedded within the formal site management plan and reviewed annually with authorities and NGOs.
  • Cultural Heritage Commemoration On Site Trees have been planted to commemorate the former WWI front lines, supported by information boards explaining the historical significance of the landscape.
  • Fairway Area Reduced by 2 Hectares Fairways have been reduced by 2 hectares, retaining extensive natural rough that is accepted by members and visitors, lowering managed turf intensity.
  • Low Water Use Without Fairway Irrigation Irrigation water is abstracted from an artificial pond, with no fairway irrigation, resulting in relatively low annual water use (typically under 11,000 m³ depending on weather).
  • Major Energy and Fuel Reductions with Solar PV Grid electricity use fell from 101,853 to 86,159 kWh, solar production increased substantially, and diesel use dropped by around 40%, supported by on-site solar panels.
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“Golfclub De Palingbeek serves as a significant sanctuary for biodiversity and exemplifies how golf courses can effectively integrate into the natural landscape. Supported by a dedicated team, the club consistently upholds high standards in sustainable management and remains deeply committed to nature conservation. Through investments in renewable energy, water efficiency, and the continuous attention for protected natural areas, best practices are maintained across all levels of management. Their ongoing progress is notable, and continued success in future initiatives is anticipated.”

Guido Hamelink (GEO accredited independent verifier)
GEO Certified Reports
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