By SEAN PLUNKETT

Year-round growth, high humidity, abundant rainfall, and intense sunlight — present both opportunities and challenges for sustainable golf course management. 

One of the most credible and globally recognized frameworks addressing these issues is GEO Certified®, administered by the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf. This international ecolabel helps facilities demonstrate comprehensive environmental and social responsibility. 

In a recent insightful conversation Brad Revill — an accredited GEO verifier and Managing Director of BRT Agronomy (a leading consultancy serving the Asia-Pacific region) — Brad shared practical details on the program, its process, and its relevance to Asian clubs.

Brad Revill, an accredited GEO verifier operating primarily in Asia and Australia through BRT Agronomy, brings hands-on regional expertise. His consultancy supports clubs with everything from soil testing and MLSN implementation to full GEO guidance — making the process practical for tropical/subtropical conditions.

What is GEO Certified®?

GEO Certified® is a holistic certification that covers the entire golf facility — not just the course, but also clubhouse operations, food & beverage, purchasing, waste management, and more. It serves as a structured framework for clubs to become more sustainable, with strong support from the GEO Foundation through guidance, resources, and the user-friendly OnCourse® platform.

The program focuses on three core pillars:

• Nature — Protecting and enhancing the local environment through buffer zones near waterways, habitat management, soil and water testing, and reduced chemical/fertilizer use. 
• Resources — Efficient use of energy, water, waste recycling, and responsible purchasing (e.g., choosing energy-efficient equipment).
• Community — Communicating sustainability efforts, promoting golf's benefits, and supporting local initiatives — especially vital in Asia, where many clubs engage in charity events, school programs, or recycling projects that benefit nearby villages.
  

The Certification Process: Step by Step

Brad emphasized that the journey starts with zero cost — clubs simply sign up for the free OnCourse® platform, input basic property details, and have an initial call with GEO representatives for guidance.

Key steps include:

1. Collect 12 months of data on resource use (energy, water, waste, recycling, fertilizers, chemicals).
2. Implement necessary procedures, such as SOPs for chemical applications and records/licenses for waste contractors.
3. Submit data and documentation via the platform.
4. Engage an independent accredited verifier via GEO (like Brad in Asia/Australia) for an on-site check of data, processes, and facilities.
5. Pay verification and GEO fees only at certification.

The initial certification is valid for 3 years, after which clubs apply for recertification by demonstrating measurable improvements or new initiatives (e.g., reduced resource use or enhanced biodiversity projects). The next recertification would be after 5 years and then continue on a 5-year cycle, ensuring ongoing commitment to progress.

Many clubs already track much of this data (e.g., monthly utility bills), making the process more accessible than expected.

Why GEO Matters in Asia's Tropical Climate

In most of the asia region, with no true winter dormancy, water and energy efficiency are critical — irrigation runs year-round, and pumping consumes significant electricity.

GEO encourages practices perfectly suited to these challenges:

• Selecting climate-appropriate turfgrasses (e.g., Paspalum or Zoysia over high-input varieties like Bermuda on larger areas) for better resource efficiency while maintaining playability.

• Adopting efficient irrigation (e.g., nozzle upgrades) and solar power to offset pumping demands — sunlight is abundant in most parts of Asia.

• Following MLSN (Minimum Levels for Sustainable Nutrition) guidelines for fertilizer — a research-backed approach that dramatically cuts usage while improving turf health.

Brad noted quick wins like irrigation audits, proper workshop containment to prevent runoff, and soil testing interpretation — often low-cost with big impacts.

Business and Community Benefits

Beyond environmental gains, GEO helps clubs reduce costs through efficiencies, improve stakeholder relations (vital amid land-use pressures in Asia), and enhance reputation. Certification provides marketing support, positive press, and stronger ties with governments and communities — potentially safeguarding against future challenges.

A common misconception? That it's expensive. Brad clarified most changes involve internal processes, training, and data tracking — with optional investments like solar being voluntary.

Recent Enhancements to the Sustainable Golf Pathway (2025 Updates)

In 2025, GEO rolled out Custom Action Plans integrated with the Sustainable Golf Scorecard. These act like a personalized 'Sustainability Strokesaver,' prioritizing improvements based on your OnCourse data — such as irrigation upgrades or MLSN fertilizer strategies. This makes it easier for Asian clubs facing year-round turf demands to target quick wins. The platform remains free to join, with GEO Certified as the flagship recognition.

Start with the Sustainable Golf Pledge

Clubs can begin with the simple Sustainable Golf Pledge (available at sustainable.golf/pledge) — a meaningful public commitment to sustainability customized for clubs and countries. It helps engage staff, members, and stakeholders, and directly unlocks full access to OnCourse® tools, data tracking, customized reports, and the pathway to certification. No cost, no heavy commitment — ideal for Asian facilities exploring options amid regional challenges like water efficiency.

GEO Certified® isn't just a badge — it's a journey toward a more resilient, efficient, and positively viewed golf industry in Asia. If your club is ready to lead, the framework is accessible, proven, and tailored for our region's realities.

For Asian clubs seeking guidance, experts like Brad Revill and BRT Agronomy offer hands-on support.

About BRT Agronomy

Brad Revill founded BRT Agronomy in 2017 to provide independent, expert advice tailored to the needs of golf courses in the Asia Pacific region. With decades of experience in the region, BRT Agronomy delivers services that include agronomic consulting, project management, and irrigation design. The company has been instrumental in transforming facilities into world-class destinations, promoting sustainability and operational efficiency - For more information about BRT Agronomy and their services, visit BRT Agronomy.