Hilton Head Island earns distinction for environmental golf efforts

Hilton Head Island has been named the very first International Sustainable Golf Destination of the Year by the globe’s top golf tour operators, marking the second consecutive year that the Lowcountry has received honors from the association.

The International Association of Golf Tour Operators last year proclaimed Hilton Head as its North America Golf Destination of the Year. This year’s recognition is for the area’s environmental commitment and performance across three core categories — nature, resources and people.

A community sustainability initiative now involves 15 area golf facilities, coordinated by Hilton Head Island nonprofit Experience Green. Three facilities are among just 10 nationwide that have become fully certified by the Golf Environment Organization.

Sea Pines Resort, where the PGA Tour makes an annual stop at Harbour Town Golf Links, holds GEO certification along with Old South Golf Links and The Legends at Parris Island.

In addition, the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing is working toward receiving sustainability certification for its upcoming 2017 edition.

“I am certain that Charles Fraser, visionary pioneer and initial developer of Hilton Head Island, would be delighted for the work of sustainability that goes on,” said Experience Green founder Teresa Wade.

IAGTO is comprised of some 600 golf tour operators from more than 60 countries who vote for the awards. The association’s Sustainability Awards are now in their fifth year as part of its annual recognition program.

This story was originally published November 18, 2016 at 6:34 PM with the headline "Hilton Head Island earns distinction for environmental golf efforts."