Golf Business News – Syngenta report highlights ‘sustainability opportunity’ for golf

Around the world, golf clubs and courses continue to experience record demand. In the United States, the world’s largest market with 14,000 green grass courses and nearly 27 million customers, rounds were up in 2023, participation was up and female participation was at an all-time high, according to the National Golf Foundation.

Yet golf has been hit hard by accusations of laziness, failure to retain new customers and demonstrate its environmental credentials in the face of growing opposition online.

But does the emergence of a new ‘Welfare Economy’ – where businesses can be measured not only on the bottom line but also on their benefits to people and the planet – allow golf course businesses to show their true value?

Syngenta’s new multimedia feature on Golf and the New Wellbeing Economy highlights golf’s huge opportunity to show government and local communities the key clubs and courses to play in sustainability.

Mark Birchmore, Syngenta’s Global Head of Marketing, Turf & Landscape, said: “Golf’s post-pandemic attack highlights the game’s enduring appeal, providing not only sport, but a haven where people can connect, enjoy the outdoors and improve their wellbeing. Clubs must look beyond the usual focus on history and competition, to embrace the emotional connection that modern players demand.

“From an environmental sustainability perspective, technology offers promising solutions, from water management innovations to improved customer experience; but investment and foresight are essential.

“If we can continue to promote inclusivity and ensure that the sport is accessible to all, while tackling sustainability issues head-on, the future of golf will be as bright as the present. And that’s what this feature emphasizes.”

To read this feature, Syngenta market studies and listen to the podcast, visit www.syngentagolf.com