Environmental stewardship can be defined as the preservation, conservation and enhancement of the natural environment, through an informed management approach.

Golf is neither inherently good nor inherently bad for the environment.  Its impact is dependent on the location and design of individual courses, and the way in which they are developed and managed.

Since golf is a major land user worldwide, it is essential that the industry recognises and takes steps to minimise the impact it has on the natural environment.  Increasing social awareness and environmental legislation is scrutinising the use of scarce water resources and potential pollutants such as pesticides and fertilisers.

Aside from social and legal pressures, if water and chemical use can be effectively reduced without detriment to playing performance, it will bring significant cost-saving advantages.

For the purposes of transparency and accountability, records of your water and chemical usage should be kept. Accurate records will also help you to identify areas for future improvement and efficiency savings.  Documenting progress in enhancing biodiversity can be accomplished through monitoring the results of habitat management.  The R&A has compiled a list of evidence fields which it considers vital to the assessment of ongoing sustainability.