The day gave rise to a number of discussions and speeches, including those of Thierry Occelli, Mayor of Opio, and Christine Prouin, Head of Ecological Transition for the PACA League. Their presence testifies to the determination of golf and local players to work together to protect the environment. In addition to the discussions, the day’s events highlighted the efforts made by the golf club and the need to publicise all the initiatives undertaken. It also reinforced the idea that golf is a key player in the local ecosystem, both ecologically and economically.
Nature and Golf Day, 26 June 2023
The Nature & Golf event was held at the Opio-Valbonne Golf Club on 26 June. Hosted by its Director, Guillaume Verney-Carron, and other local speakers, the aim of the day was to raise awareness of all the actions undertaken by the golf course, which are still little-known, to promote sustainable development and respect for biodiversity.
For several years now, our golf course has been taking a number of initiatives to manage water, preserve biodiversity and control the use of plant protection products.
One of the first water-related initiatives undertaken by the golf course was the renovation of its watering system, a project that began around ten years ago. This modernisation has enabled more precise and more economical management of water resources, considerably reducing leaks and thus combating wastage. This innovative system is an example of the golf course’s commitment to more responsible maintenance of its course.
Working alongside local players to protect the environment
Towards the Silver Label for Biodiversity
For several years now, the golf course has been working on a daily basis to preserve biodiversity. Through the Golf for Biodiversity Programme initiated by the French Golf Federation with the support of the Natural History Museum, an expert report was drawn up on our golf course, following which we undertook concrete action to protect the local flora and fauna with a view to obtaining the Silver Label. Achieving this new certification will enable us to reinforce the work already undertaken to manage and protect the golf course’s natural areas and create habitats.