Eleven major golfing associations have collaborated to launch a platform to support grassroots clubs implement sustainability initiatives.

OnCourse, an online platform for sustainable golf course and club management, will offer clubs guidance on sourcing sustainable materials, implementing zero waste to landfill strategies and minimising or eradicating the use of petroleum-based and single-use plastics.

The platform makes it easier for golf facilities to track and communicate their actions for nature, resources and community. It also allows them to generate data for knowledge sharing opportunities with other clubs and facilities.

GEO Foundation, the nonprofit sustainable golf organisation, partnered with associations in Sweden, Portugal, Switzerland, South Africa, Netherlands, Flanders, Scotland, England, Italy and South Africa on the project.

“Finding ways to live, work and play sustainably is society’s greatest challenge, and it requires a combination of teamwork and individual leadership,” said Jonathan Smith, executive director of the GEO Foundation.

“This group of golfing nations is demonstrating both – pulling together on robust and common solutions, while also setting out strengthened leadership to support grassroots action.”

Jochem Verberne, director of global partnerships for WWF International, said he expected the platform to become important to golf’s “long-term viability”.

“By using standards, technology and certification tools that have been developed, golf will be able to generate significant measurable outcomes for people and the environment that will show how the sport’s often perceived negative impacts can be turned into clear ‘net positive’ value,” he added.