This year’s Genesis Scottish Open is raising the bar for sustainability in sport.
The tournament, taking place at the Renaissance Club in East Lothian, is aiming to become one of the most green golf events ever held by significantly reducing its carbon footprint through the use of clean energy technologies.
Maria Grandinetti-Milton, director of sustainability at the European Tour group, said: "We have experimented with hydrogen power at our events for four years now but this is our most ambitious roll-out yet, and the first time hydrogen has been used at this scale to power a major sporting event on a greenfield site.
"We’re also focusing our efforts on promoting golf’s intrinsic links to the natural world, with golf tournaments an ideal gateway for spectators to get out and experience nature.
"As a course that is GEO Certified® for its work in sustainability, Renaissance Club is a fantastic location to showcase this, and we hope fans will leave the tournament with a greater appreciation for how the local habitat blends seamlessly into the spectacular tournament venue."
Green hydrogen power units will generate zero-emission electricity, while the Fan Village’s main stage and merchandise shop will run on solar power.
It is estimated the hydrogen units will save more than 16,200 kg CO₂e compared to diesel generators.
This year marks the most extensive use of hydrogen power at a European Tour event to date.
Rob Dickson, director of industry and events at VisitScotland, said: "The Genesis Scottish Open sets a strong example of how major events can lead the way on climate-conscious innovation, using renewable energy to reduce impact while showcasing innovation on a global stage."
The sustainability measures are part of the DP World Tour’s Golf for Good programme, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Share