The award is in recognition of the good environmental management practices in place on the Links. It specifically includes areas such as turf maintenance, use of herbicides and pesticides, waste disposal and wildlife friendly practices.
"We are very pleased to have won this award. It is welcome recognition of the concerted efforts which have been made at the Links to put good environmental practice into place and to keep records of this work," said Gordon Moir, Links Superintendent.
In 2002 the Trust requested an energy efficiency audit which was subsequently carried out by the Scottish Energy Efficiency office. By 2003 95% of the recommendations published in the audit were completed. The work involved using more energy efficient lighting, improving gas regulation and use, and improving the way in which the irrigation pumping stations operate.
Out on the course a substantial number of sprinkler heads were changed from 360 to 180 degrees, many of the petrol diesel buggies were replaced by Yamaha electric buggies and a free shuttle bus was put in place in the high season to transport golfers between the clubhouse and different site facilities. This will not only ease congestion but will significantly reduce pollution.
"We worked closely with Les Hatton of the Fife Council Countryside Ranger Service and Bob Taylor, Ecology Officer with the Sports Turf Research Institute," added Mr Moir. "A number of staff worked hard to bring it altogether especially Lorna Marroney who co-ordinated the project."
Last year the Trust showed its commitment to upholding environmentally-friendly practices across the Links by producing an environmental statement