Viborg Golfklub in Denmark has become the country’s first course to achieve certification from the Golf Environment Organisation

With the Danish Golf Union (DGU), GEO and local government figures present at the award ceremony, Viborg’s new state-of-the-art maintenance facility hosted the team of staff and volunteers that worked to achieve the award, alongside a good turnout from the membership. 

GEO’s director of communications Benjamin Warren said: “Viborg has demonstrated its commitment to become a resource efficient, ecologically rich, community integrated golf club, delivering ever increasing standards of environmental management.

“Through the action of clubs like Viborg, golf facilities have the potential to play their part in driving sustainable lifestyles and sustainable livelihoods. The detailed certification report, available for anyone to read on the GEO website, is a case study in sustainable golf.”

Torben Kastrup Petersen, head of golf course management at the Danish Golf Union said: “Viborg has set a fantastic example as an international pioneer in this extremely valuable programme. GEO has put together a streamlined and effective programme that will drive credible continual improvement in golf facilities."

While in Denmark to present Viborg’s award, GEO teamed up with the DGU to stage a one-day certification workshop at the Odense Golf Club. After working with participants to begin the registration process, the DGU is looking forward to a groundswell of participation as the race for recognition as Europe’s greenest golf nation gathers pace.

Gordon Shepherd, WWF’s director of international policy and a member of GEO’s advisory council, said: “Viborg has demonstrated its  commitment to reduce resource consumption and emissions, and maximise the ecosystem services derived from the course. As relatively large land owners and potential catalysts among members and local communities, golf facilities have an important role to play and Viborg should be proud of their pioneering achievement.”