13 Jul 2022
The R&A is expanding its GreenLinks programme with a range of new and enhanced sustainability measures in place for The 150th Open at St Andrews.
Launched in 2016 as a dedicated sustainability, legacy and climate action initiative for The Open, GreenLinks has evolved each year to harness positive change and minimise the environmental and social impact of staging The Open as a major sporting event.
This year, all core emissions will be offset through world-leading ‘Gold Standard’ accredited climate projects which deliver on important aspects of climate justice and also contribute to wider UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Arlette Anderson, Director of Sustainable Golf – The R&A, said, “The Open is a major global sporting event and with the support of our patrons and delivery partners, we are continually striving to do more to play our part in protecting the future of our planet.
“The Open offers an opportunity to showcase golf’s role in positively impacting people and nature, demonstrating responsible resource use and championing climate action. We thank all of our partners in helping us on this journey and committing to our shared aim of continuous improvement.”
For the first time ever this year, the historic Old Course will be mown with a fleet of cutting-edge electric and hybrid-electric Toro equipment. Other new and expanded measures for The 150th Open include:
Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland Director of Events, commented: "Congratulations to The R&A for making sustainability and climate action such an important and integral part of the planning, delivery and promotion of The Open. These aspects are central to Scottish Government policy, and the support we provide to events in the future as we look to promote Scotland as a leading responsible tourism and events destination to the world.”
The R&A is tracking and measuring a wide range of sustainability metrics at The Open using the new OnCourse® Tournaments programme provided by GEO Foundation, including carbon footprint supported by Hope Solutions. The overall GreenLinks programme is planned, implemented and tracked in collaboration with GEO Foundation.