Organizers of the Slync.io Dubai Desert Classic are highlighting the tournament’s commitment to environmental responsibility and shining the spotlight on all sustainable developments at this year’s tournament that fall under four themes: waste, transport, energy, and legacy.
It marks an important new initiative for the 33rd edition of the DP World Tour golf event, which runs from January 27-30 at Emirates Golf Club.
Reducing CO2 emissions
The current US$8million Rolex Series tournament will power large areas of the event with a mix of 20 percent locally sourced biofuel and 80 percent solar power, through a flagship partnership with Aggreko, global pioneers in temporary power. This results in a reduction in CO2 emission of more than eight times compared to conventional energy production methods.
The collaboration will power large areas of the tournament more sustainably through an energy mix that harnesses plant matter as well as light and heat from the sun, including a 100-meter solar panel on the 11th hole. Areas to be powered by the new energy mix include the Players’ Lounge, the Main Hospitality Pavilion, 15th Green Hospitality, the TopGolf Deck, European Tour offices, the Village Area, Merchandise Tent, on-course F&B areas, and spectator washrooms.
environmentally responsible practices
Switch to digital ticketing to save paper, a campaign to encourage the use of metro and public transport
Simon Corkill, tournament director of the Slync.io Dubai Desert Classic said, “The tournament has entered a new era this year through our elevation to a Rolex Series event, our long-term partnership with title sponsors Slync.io, and our commitment to sustainable, environmentally responsible practices.”
Other initiatives include a switch to digital ticketing to save paper, a campaign to encourage the use of metro and public transport by spectators, and the replacement of on-course plastic bottles with refillable options. Specialist waste management efforts to reduce waste sent to landfills will also be in operation in partnership with Dulsco, an integrated waste management solutions provider and the Official Waste Management Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai.
Sustainability
“In a year where we are introducing free entry for spectators and expecting a record turnout, we are more eager than ever to raise awareness and spread the message that we can all take action and contribute to a more sustainable future. Sustainability is one of the main pillars of the UAE’s National Agenda and our ongoing initiatives are in line with the efforts being made and encouraged by the leadership of Dubai and the UAE,” Corkill adds.
The Dubai Desert Classic was the European Tour’s first event in the Middle East in 1989, cementing the Tour’s relationship with Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. The tournament has been won by some of golf’s greatest names, including Major Champions Seve Ballesteros, Ernie Els, Fred Couples, José Maria Olazábal, Mark O’Meara, Tiger Woods, Henrik Stenson, Rory McIlroy, Danny Willett, Sergio Garcia, and Bryson DeChambeau.
