The Toro Company has announced its continued financial and technical support of The European Tour and Golf Environment Organization (GEO) in advancing sustainability in and through the game of golf.
As a Partner of The European Tour Green Drive initiative, the commitment extends the company’s existing European Tour Official Supplier status.
The company’s support will be directed towards the international voluntary standards and certification work GEO undertakes with golf, non-governmental and governmental government stakeholders – in line with the codes of practice set out by ISEAL, the global leader in assuring sustainability standards.
The support for The European Tour Green Drive ensures venues and tournaments are provided with the necessary assistance to help them achieve more practical outcomes that benefit nature, communities and their business.
“We are pleased to again extend our support to GEO and The European Tour Green Drive,” said Rick Olson, Group Vice President at The Toro Company. “This initiative is supporting the golf industry to make significant steps in the sustainability journey, through accredited voluntary standards; easy to use and helpful programs and highly credible facility certification.
“That work, coupled with European Tour promotion across venues and tournaments, is a winning combination, and great news for those connected to the game.”
Speaking at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club, Swedish Ryder Cup player, Peter Hanson, said: “It is great to see Toro supporting the Tour with such extensive knowledge and expertise – helping us in our quest for the best possible playing surfaces, using the least amount of water and other resources. In addition, their contribution to GEO’s valuable industry wide work is helping to raise standards and the game’s reputation more widely.
“As a junior golfer learning the game I had first hand experience of green keeping back home in Sweden so it’s great to see how the industry has progressed.”
Toro Corporate Accounts Manager, Andy Brown, added: “Toro is fully committed to supporting the long-term sustainability and success of the golf industry, with a particular focus on helping people on the ground get the best possible playing conditions, using the minimum amount of energy and water. We are looking forward to working with more European Tour venues to find new efficiencies and ensure the highest quality turf.”
Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive of GEO, commented: “The European Tour Green Drive demonstrates corporate responsibility in action, and Toro brings valuable resources and expertise, particularly on the critical issue of water. The blend of technology leadership, guidance, certification and positive promotion makes this an extremely exciting partnership with great potential for the years ahead”.
The initiative will see European Tour venues being asked to meet accredited voluntary standards for golf club and course management, attaining the GEO Certified label, and a gradual roll out of a package of support across European Tour tournaments.
European Tour Green Drive www.europeantour.com/aboutus/environment
Golf Environment Organization www.golfenvironment.org