IGOLF encourages world architects to consider sustainable golf
Paul Sochaczewski speaks to first Dubai Forum on Sustainable Architecture
Environmentally-sustainable golf should be part of the modern urban environment, urged Paul Sochaczewski, IGOLF chairman. See his presentation.
Speaking at the first Dubai Forum on Architecture for Sustainable Societies, Sochaczewski explained the operations of IGOLF-International Golf and Life Foundation, and noted the environmental, social and intangible challenges faced by golf courses worldwide.
He also provided examples of the benefits to nature and the community that can result when a golf course is properly designed and managed. These often under-appreciated benefits reflect the fact that a good golf course can act as a nature reserve, sequester carbon, filter air and water, maintain watersheds and natural areas, and serve as a green lung in densely-populated and over-built urban neighborhoods.
He gave examples of four IGOLF Laureate Courses, out of some 22 in total, which adhere to IGOLF’s eight-point Charter. The featured courses: Lavaux in Switzerland, Keppel Club in Singapore, Manila Southwoods in the Philippines, and Sofitel Phokeethra in Cambodia.
The event, held January 5 in Dubai, UAE, was hosted by Brand Dubai, in collaboration with the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York. The Forum corresponded with the opening of Burj Khalifa, which at 828-meters is the world’s tallest building.
The event, held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice-president and prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, included over 40 speakers and panelists, who addressed more than 400 delegates from 15 countries.
Mona Al Marri, chief executive officer of Brand Dubai said, "The first edition of The Dubai Forum has proved to be an extraordinary podium for information exchange which we believe will continue to contribute to sustainable development around the globe."