The R&A has become a signatory of the Sports for Nature Framework, a joint initiative which aims to deliver transformative action for nature across sports by 2030 and beyond, enabling sports to champion nature and contribute to its protection and restoration.
The framework was established by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), International Olympic Committee (IOC), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity and Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy – providing a game plan for sports at all levels to accelerate and inspire others to take action for nature.
It was signed by representatives of The R&A and partners of the Sports for Nature Framework at the recent Sport Positive Summit.
Daniel Lightfoot, Director – Sustainability at The R&A, said, “Golf has shown that it can contribute positively to society by protecting and restoring nature. It also enhances biodiversity in the environments in which it is played.
“Signing the Sports for Nature Framework underlines our commitment to its key principles and ensuring that golf is viewed as both responsible and credible in meeting its sustainability requirements.
“We look forward to sharing insights and collaborating with the other signatories in the wider sports community as we aim to create lasting change and ensure there is a positive future ahead for our planet.”
The commitment to the Sports for Nature Framework is underpinned by a number of initiatives and projects already run by The R&A, including:
- The Golf Course 2030 research programme, which includes nature and biodiversity
- A partnership with with The RSPB, the UK’s largest nature conservation body
- A five-year Golf and Nature Biodiversity Study launched in 2022
- An inaugural Golf BioBlitz supported by The R&A Foundation hosted at Carnoustie
- Planned staging of the Fairways to Nature Conference in Paris, which will be held with the FFG in 2025, bringing together national federations and experts and leaders in biodiversity in golf and sport more widely. This builds on the Golf and Biodiversity seminar held last year.
"By formally joining the Sports for Nature Framework, The R&A reaffirms its existing commitment to the protection and restoration of nature,” said Meredith McCurdy, programme leader, Sports for Nature at the IUCN.
“The R&A has already established an important leadership role within the golf community with research, community activities, and industry seminars focusing on nature and biodiversity."
Other signatories in golf include the International Golf Federation and the national federations in Colombia, England, Switzerland and France, as well as more than 70 other signatories including the IOC, FIA, World Rugby and World Sailing more widely.
