Scotland-based group names Phoenix Open first in sustainability
Nov 29, 2017, 7:01 AM
(Waste Management Phoenix Open Photo)
(Waste Management Phoenix Open Photo)
PHOENIX — The Waste Management Phoenix Open is raising its profile among organizers as one of the world’s best golf tournaments, according to a Scotland-based group.
According to a press release, the Waste Management Phoenix Open is the first tournament in the world to attain Geo-Certified Tournament status from the GEO Foundation, a group that helps organizers deliver high, sustainable standards.
The venue and organizers had to complete a custom-built program for golf tournaments in six categories that included planning, site protection, procurement, resource management and access and equity and community legacy as part of the certification.
“The achievement is another proud milestone for our organization and reinforces the Waste Management Phoenix Open as the greenest show on grass,” said Paula Davey, director of sales and marketing at Waste Management.
The tournament, which has the largest attendance on the PGA Tour, was applauded for consistently diverting waste from landfills, restoring water to the Verde River and Colorado River Basin and raising $10 million that went to local charities.
Jonathan Smith, executive director of the GEO Foundation, said organizers deserve the certification.
“…If you look at the breadth and depth of what they have done to date and the social and environmental targets they have set for the future, they are clearly leading in the practical delivery of sustainability in and through golf.”
