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Appendix E: The 1997 Ryder Cup and Valderrama –
Environmental Management
Overview
The 1997 Ryder Cup at Valderrama is "Committed to Green". It is the first
major golf event to introduce a green dimension in order to demonstrate that
golf courses and golf events can be positive role models for environmental
good practice. This adds a further distinguishing mark to the 1997 Ryder Cup
matches which are being played for the first time ever in Continental Europe.
The project is a joint initiative between Valderrama Golf Club, Ryder Cup
Limited, the Royal Spanish Golf Federation and the European Golf
Association (EGA) Ecology Unity, with co-funding from the European
Commission.
As this is the first golf event to adopt a green programme, it has been
important to set goals which are both worthwhile and achievable without
being over ambitious. This is meant to be a foundation for future events to
improve upon. Accordingly the environmental package for the 1997 Ryder
Cup aims to be challenging enough to demonstrate leadership and
commitment, to inspire others and to merit public recognition. The key
elements are as follows:
Environmental Management at Valderram a
The Valderrama management is actively following the certification
procedure under the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program. For the last
two and a half years the club has also been the lead pilot site in an ECsupported
project to develop an Environmental Management Programme for
Golf Courses. Accordingly, Valderrama has been working to meet the
required standards for: environmental management policies, nature
conservation, water management, Integrated Pest Management, waste
management, and outreach and education.
Environmental Management for the 1997 Ryder Cup
A series of measures to demonstrate environmental awareness in the
management of a golfing event are being implemented. The principle areas of
focus include:
• transportation (using shuttles to reduce pollution and congestion and
quieter vehicles on the golf course)
• waste management (recycling and re-using materials)
• infrastructure and construction (site protection, community benefits)
• creating partnerships (with sponsors/suppliers, local authorities,
environmental groups)
Managing and Monitoring Environmental Performance of Sports Events and Facilities 57