EMS APPLIED TO TURF
G
olf is a huge industry that is constantly growing and developing. Clubs provide
important areas of green space in the community and, in some instances, may be the only green space among urban areas, providing habitat for wildlife, amenity for golfers and buffers between the urban landscape and green space. Many golf courses can boast an array of landscape types within its bounds, from water features to woodlands and open spaces. Golf clubs offer a multitude of functions and important resources. The theory of an
Environmental Management System (EMS) can be applied to any business, be it a multinational corporation or the local golf club. The turf industry can benefit from the EMS system. Basically, an EMS is proof that golf courses are being managed in an environmentally sensitive manner. The area of turfgrass often finds itself at the centre of the debate on sustainable development. Protecting the environment is becoming an increasingly high priority and legislation in this area is becoming even more stringent. The Nitrates Directive* will
have a major impact on certain management practices in the industry. In order to survive and prosper, turfgrass managers can anticipate future legislation by putting in place Environmental Management Systems. Adapting environmental practices economically in the turf industry is going to become extremely important as time goes on. Often unfair criticism is placed upon the turf industry, and associated practices, by people outside the industry. Overcoming this stigma and ensuring the public know that the industry has the environment high on the list of priorities can be a persuasive argument. Golf courses can demonstrate in a credible manner to the locality, and the public authorities, that it is an environmentally responsible activity.
What is an Environmental Management System?
An Environmental Management System is a system of processes. It is not a set of goals or performance standards to be achieved, although it includes processes for setting performance goals. The EMS is a systematic process for implementing a
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