Golf Sustainability | Environmental Solutions to Keep the Game of Golf Sustainable for Future Golfers – Details, episodes & analysis

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Golf Sustainability | Environmental Solutions to Keep the Game of Golf Sustainable for Future Golfers

Golf Sustainability | Environmental Solutions to Keep the Game of Golf Sustainable for Future Golfers

John Failla

Sports
Science

Frequency: 1 episode/19d. Total Eps: 31

Podbean
On a mission to drive positive change in the golf industry for a greener future! Host John Failla focuses on advancing the sustainability of both the environment and the game of golf for generations to come through valuable insights, meaningful connections, and inspiring stories. This passionate golfer, who has already played on 39 of the World’s Top 100 Golf Courses, brings together industry leaders and organizations: Greg Nathan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Golf Foundation (NGF), Graeme Beatt, the Course Manager at Royal Portrush Golf Course in Ireland, Dave Barton, the executive director of the National Alliance for Accessible Golf, and many more. John and his guests are united by a shared commitment to the cause. Over the past 15 years, John has created, developed and sold two businesses focused on helping large private and public sector organizations accomplish their sustainability goals and navigate the energy transition to clean energy. Most recently, the research, digital media, events and podcasts created by John at Smart Energy Decisions have been widely recognized for their thought leadership and impact in helping large organizations achieve their sustainability goals and reduce their carbon emissions. John is leveraging his experience in corporate sustainability and his passion for golf in the development of Golf Sustainability as a resource to help accelerate adoption of best practices in environmental, social and economic sustainability within the golf industry to ensure the viability of the game for future generations. Be part of the movement for golf sustainability!
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Apple Podcasts

  • 🇺🇸 USA - golf

    27/07/2025
    #93

  • 🇫🇷 France - golf

    12/06/2025
    #100

  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - golf

    10/06/2025
    #96

  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - golf

    09/06/2025
    #90

  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - golf

    08/06/2025
    #73

  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - golf

    07/06/2025
    #64

  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - golf

    06/06/2025
    #46

  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - golf

    29/05/2025
    #91

  • 🇫🇷 France - golf

    29/05/2025
    #98

  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - golf

    28/05/2025
    #81

Spotify

    No recent rankings available

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Score global : 58%

Publication history

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Inspirational Story of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach and Tips for How to Launch Your Own Golf Course Community Center

Episode 13

mardi 14 mai 2024 • Duration 36:03

The Path seeks to change kids’ lives while introducing them to the game of golf. So is it a community center or a golf course? It’s both! It was launched on the premise that every child deserves the chance to succeed in life and you can hear the motivating story from Dave Andrews, the Director of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach.

The Path has become the perfect blend of Dave’s passion and purpose, giving kids hope and inspiration. The goal was to take a kid who may not be on a good path and change their trajectory.

Listen to learn more about this awe-inspiring community program—including how to inspire community involvement or launch your own program.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • Vision for The Park West Palm project (03:31 - 08:19)
  • Development of the The Path and its key programs (08:20 - 18:35)
  • Getting local schools to participate in the program (23:44 - 29:30)

Resources

Connect with Guest, Dave Andrews

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect With Golf Sustainability

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Inspiring Strategies for Diversity and Inclusion in Golf, Highlighting 5 Key Areas of Commitment: Governance, Education, Workforce, Procurement, and Community

Season 1 · Episode 11

samedi 13 janvier 2024 • Duration 32:24

Aiming to reflect the diverse demographics of America in both participants and workforce of the golf industry is Sandy Cross, the Chief People Officer at the PGA of America. Sandy and host John explore groundbreaking programs like PGA Works, aimed at diversifying the golf industry workforce, and initiatives such as Make Golf Your Career and Make Golf Your Business, fostering diversity in career opportunities and supply chains.

Sandy also shares personal insights, including the transformative power of golf, her inspiration from her parents, and the challenges and triumphs of relocating the PGA of America during the pandemic.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • Framework for diversity and inclusion at PGA of America (04:01 - 07:00)
  • PGA’s internal diversity and inclusion programs (07:01 - 10:00)
  • Industry-wide initiatives and programs (10:01 - 15:00) 

Resources 

Connect with Guest, Sandy Cross

Connect with PGA of America

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

How to Implement a Sustainable Golf Course Design Including Tips on Environmental, Social, and Economic Sustainability and Best Golf Sustainability Practices

Season 1 · Episode 3

jeudi 19 octobre 2023 • Duration 01:15:53

Explaining how golf courses can be sustainable and have beautiful designs is a leading global authority on sustainable golf course design, Jason Straka, principal of Fry / Straka Global Golf Course Design.

Sustainable golf course design strives to create a course that is good for the environment, welcoming to the community, and financially sound for the long term. Jason emphasizes that these three aspects need to coexist to create truly sustainable golf courses and guides golf fans through the challenges in implementing sustainable design.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • Importance of achieving carbon net zero and using sustainably sourced materials (0:00 - 0:25)
  • State of sustainable golf course design in different regions of the world (4:12 - 16:29)
  • Three-Legged Stool of Sustainability (16:30 - 26:36)
  • Transformation of Ambiente Golf Course in Arizona (26:37 - 27:03)
  • Challenges associated with implementing sustainable design in golf courses (27:04 - 30:39)
  • ASGCA’s efforts in promoting sustainability and environmental awareness in golf course architecture (45:50 - 49:03)
  • Golf Course Superintendents Association (49:08 - 52:33)
  • Independent verification of sustainability efforts (52:42 - 57:10)
  • Toro’s and Rainbird’s significant role in advancing sustainable golf course development (57:16 - 59:27)
  • Automation and environmentally sustainable equipment (1:00:27)
  • Future of environmental and sustainable design (1:03:30)

Resources 

Connect with Guest, Jason Straka

Connect with Fry / Straka Global Golf Course Design

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

What is Golf Sustainability and What is the Environmental Impact of Golf? Guiding Principles and Values Golfers and Leaders in the Sport Need to Know

Season 1 · Episode 2

jeudi 19 octobre 2023 • Duration 11:55

Are you passionate about golf and want to help build a world where the sport lives on long-term? Then you need to know what golf sustainability is because environmental responsibility, social inclusiveness, and economic viability are essential for the industry's future.

Here to explain golf sustainability is Golf Sustainability’s host John Failla, a passionate golfer and sustainability expert with a background in corporate sustainability. John merges his love for golf with his deep industry knowledge to help sustain the game for future generations.

Throughout this episode, John outlines the mission for Golf Sustainability and outlines future content such as water conservation, wildlife management, waste recycling, energy management, expanding participation in the game, inclusivity, off-course concepts, and the lifeblood of the industry.

Resources

Join us on this journey to explore the intersection of golf and sustainability and get ready to learn how to make a positive impact on the environment, society, and the future of golf.

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability on your favorite platform and connect with us on social media. Share your thoughts and ideas for future episodes by emailing John at John@GolfSustainability.com.

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

How to Save a Golf Course While Preserving the Course Character and Incorporating Golf Sustainability Best Practices

Season 1 · Episode 10

vendredi 12 janvier 2024 • Duration 41:16

Here to explain how it’s possible to create an environmentally conscious golfing experience while enhancing safety and making the golf course more sustainable is Tom Coyne, Author and Owner of Sullivan County Golf Club, a 180-acre, nine-hole course in the Catskills.

Tom takes us through his significant course renovation including sodding the entire course using a mix of grass strains reflective of its century-long history. His commitment to responsible land management, combined with the use of organic inputs from partners like Toro and AquaTrols, sets the stage for low-impact golfing.

The episode is not just about revitalizing a golf course; it's about creating a haven where golfers, families, and food enthusiasts converge to enjoy a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and exceptional experiences.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • Differences in golf sustainability views between the U.S. and Europe  (03:00 - 08:00)
  • Challenges faced by Sullivan County Golf Club and the importance of sustainability in maintaining golf courses (08:00 - 15:00)
  • Impact of Toro and AquaTrols in making the golf course more sustainable (15:00 - 26:00)

Resources

Connect with Guests, Tom Coyne

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Solutions for New and Existing Golf Courses to Increase Sustainability and Opportunities to get Certified by Audubon International

Season 1 · Episode 12

vendredi 12 janvier 2024 • Duration 46:55

Calling attention to the evolution of golf sustainability over the past 40 years is Frank LaVardera, the Director of Environmental Programs for Golf at Audubon International. Frank expresses a desire to be remembered as someone who cared deeply about the environment and fostered a user-friendly and collaborative approach in the golf industry.

During the interview, Frank delves into the intricacies of Audubon International’s Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP), Signature Program, and Platinum Program, all designed to foster environmental sustainability in golf courses, emphasizing the importance of the Natural Resource Management Plan. He calls upon real-world examples of courses committed to sustainability and shares inspiring stories about environmental stewards like Jim Pavonetti.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • Overview of the ACSP, its six certification components, and a specific example of Saco Country Club's journey in implementing environmental practices (00:00 - 14:00)
  • Discussion on the Signature Program, its 11 certification components, and an example of Cabot Revelstoke (14:00 - 26:00)
  • Introduction of the Platinum Program (26:00 - 30:00), which combines certification for golf courses, clubhouses, and lodging facilities under one umbrella
  • Audubon International's conservation initiatives (30:00 - 32:00) 

Resources

Connect with Guest, Frank LaVardera

Connect with Audubon International

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Programs Dedicated to Golf Sustainability and Promoting a Positive Environmental Impact by Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA)

Season 1 · Episode 9

mercredi 6 décembre 2023 • Duration 44:23

Opportunities for more golf sustainability are presented by Kevin Sunderman, the Chief Operating Officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Kevin chats with host John about the journey to a greener, more sustainable future for the golf industry.

From his early days as a golf enthusiast in rural Ohio to his current influential role, Kevin's story is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we delve into his passion for making a meaningful impact and sparking change in the golf community.

Topics Covered

  • Kevin’s transition from being a golf course superintendent to COO at GCSAA and an overview of GCSAA's mission (00:00 - 08:00)
  • GCSAA’s Golf Course Environmental Profile Study, its goals, research-driven initiatives, and the Best Management Practices (BMP) program (08:00)
  • Benefits of Best Management Practices (BMPs) (31:00)
  • Importance of partnerships in the golf industry to promote environmental initiatives (35:00) 

Resources

Connect with Guest, Kevin Sunderman

Connect with GCSAA 

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

How Off-Course Golf is Redefining the Sport, Such as Driving Ranges, Top Golf, and Other Golf Entertainment Facilities

Season 1 · Episode 8

mercredi 29 novembre 2023 • Duration 46:57

Exploring the world of off-course golf and its profound impact on the golf industry is Greg Nathan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Golf Foundation (NGF). Greg explains the various facets of off-course golf, encompassing driving ranges, the exhilarating world of golf entertainment exemplified by Topgolf, and the cutting-edge realm of simulator golf. 

Greg presents data on the remarkable growth of off-course golf participation and underscores the pivotal role of off-course golf in making golf more accessible and enjoyable, particularly for newcomers and casual players. He accentuates the pressing need for traditional golf courses to evolve, embracing a more welcoming and inclusive approach that breaks down the barriers preventing newcomers from transitioning to on-course golf.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • Trends in off-course golf participation (00:00 - 18:00)
  • Impact of off-course experience on green grass golf (27:00 - 30:00)
  • Historical importance of the National Golf Foundation's role in the world of golf (41:00 - 42:00)

Resources

Connect with Guest, Greg Nathan

LinkedIn

Connect with The National Golf Foundation 

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Guidance for Customized Environmental Management Plans Because Golf Sustainability is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Approach

Season 1 · Episode 7

jeudi 19 octobre 2023 • Duration 56:36

The challenges of sustainability in golf, the importance of site selection for new courses, and the need for customized environmental management plans are just some of the things Ron Dodson, a biologist and author, talks about in this episode.

The episode focuses on the significance of water conservation in the golf industry, highlighting the role of technology and new methodologies in addressing water use and wastewater treatment, and the economic aspect of sustainability and how it can become an economic opportunity rather than an expense.

This insightful discussion sheds light on the evolving landscape of golf sustainability and the importance of grassroots action to drive positive change in the industry.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • Reviewing what golf sustainability is (0:00 - 3:02)
  • Customizing sustainability for golf courses (3:02 - 8:30)
  • Key components of effective Environmental Management Plans for both new and existing golf courses (8:30 - 26:43)
  • Significance of maintaining good storage and inventory systems in maintenance facilities for sustainable golf practices (31:03 - 32:03)
  • Challenges the golf industry faces in terms of water management and conservation, particularly in regions with water scarcity (33:36 - 35:09) 

Resources

Connect with Guest, Ron Dodson 

Connect with The Dodson Group

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Balancing Aesthetics with Golf Sustainability, Challenges of Meeting Golfer Expectations While Pursuing Sustainability Goals at Carnoustie Golf Links (Scotland)

Season 1 · Episode 6

jeudi 19 octobre 2023 • Duration 31:55

Did you know that “Director of Sustainability” is an important role at golf courses? Craig Boath is the Head of Sustainability at Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland and in addition to sharing his career journey in the industry, he reveals all of Carnoustie Golf Links’ sustainability efforts.

Craig emphasizes the importance of data collection and measurement in sustainability efforts, as well as the challenges of meeting golfer expectations while pursuing sustainability goals. Craig delves into partnerships with organizations like GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf and suppliers like John Deere and Rainbird to implement sustainable practices and technologies on the course.

Highlighted Topics Covered

  • The history of Carnoustie Golf Links and Craig Boath's involvement in various Open Championships held at Carnoustie (3:28 - 8:51)
  • Examples of current sustainability projects and practices at Carnoustie Golf Links (8:51 - 12:38)
  • Carnoustie Golf Links’ involvement with groups like Kirsty Memories, disabled golfers, and junior golfers (12:38 - 16:50)
  • Details about a five-year biodiversity program and carbon capture initiatives (16:50 - 26:06)
  • Challenges of meeting high expectations for course conditions while prioritizing sustainability (26:06 - 29:21)
  • Insights into upcoming sustainability projects and goals (29:21 - 31:05)

Resources

 Connect with Guest, Craig Boath

Connect with Carnoustie Golf Links

Connect with Host, John Failla

Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

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