Reading the “Green” at the Shell Houston Open

When it comes to the “green” at this year’s Shell Houston Open, the players and fans may be talking about more than just the speed of the of the putts or the depth of the rough. The FedExCup Fore!Ever campaign along with the PGA TOUR, Audubon International and The First Tee are partnering with local communities to facilitate eco awareness and sustainable golf practices in communities that host PGA TOUR tournaments. This week’s site is the Shell Houston Open in Houston, TX, where tournament goers will experience more than just the green under their feet.

Fans will be treated to a host of green programs at this year’s tournament. The improvements to The First Tee's site at Redstone Golf Club, site of the Shell Houston Open, are one of six projects scheduled throughout the 2010 PGA TOUR season, designed to facilitate community eco awareness and integrate sustainability concepts into the game of golf. Some of this years Houston programs include:

•    Bringing local junior golfers together to increase eco awareness by making eco-friendly improvements to Redstone Golf Club.

•    Engaging and educating the local Houston golf community on environmental practices by planting of native trees, shrubs, flowers and grasses.

•    Encouraging spectators and golfers to make recycling efforts encouraged a priority during and after this year's tournament.

In addition to hands-on projects, the Shell Houston Open and its sponsors continue to teach young golfers nationwide about sustainable golf practices on and off the course. This has more than just the kids excited and engaged, as more tour players see the benefits:

"As more courses work to make sustainability a priority, and more spectators and golfers make an effort to be eco conscience themselves, we can all work together to make the game more natural and less imposing on the environment." Johnson Wagner, PGA TOUR Pro and 2008 Shell Houston Open winner.

While many organizations may recognize the impacts of their decisions and operations, not all see the value in the bigger picture. The Shell Houston Open and the PGA TOUR have taken a step forward in implementing business sustainability concepts, sustainable golf education and building a link to the thriving Houston golf community. Our sustainability consulting firm looks forward to this year’s event.