Boyne Resorts named E-Z-GO’s first Green Ambassador

E-Z-GO launched the Green Ambassador Program, which recognizes golf courses throughout the U.S. implementing sustainable environmental solutions at their course. E-Z-GO’s first Green Ambassador is Boyne Resorts in Michigan.

“We want to show others that golf courses can operate successfully with sustainability at the forefront, ensuring that we leave a positive legacy for future generations of golfers and outdoor enthusiasts,” said Josh Richter, senior vice president of golf operations at Boyne. “Being a part of E-Z-GO’s Green Ambassador program is a great way for us to get that message out, share our sustainable practices with others and lead by example.”

The Green Ambassador program is a new initiative of E-Z-GO as part of its larger commitment to sustainability. To qualify as a Green Ambassador, a course measures its business initiatives on a numerical scale. Question topics in key sections include:

• Habitat and water conservation
• Facilities and buildings
• Waste and recycling
• Education, advocacy and community outreach

In 2021, Boyne Resorts committed to a goal of net zero emissions across all 13 of their golf courses by 2030. Boyne calls it the “ForeverProject.” From selective watering days to the expansion of natural areas around fairways and building buffer zones around water features to decreasing the frequency of mowing fairways, Boyne said the ForeverProject saves thousands of dollars and reduces emissions. Another key investment making a positive change, resort officials say, is Boyne’s fleet of E-Z-GO RXV ELiTE golf cars, which reduce charging time and energy use by more than 25 percent compared to vehicles powered by traditional lead-acid battery technology, according to the company.

“It’s important to not only talk about ways to be sustainable, but turn conversations into actions,” said Mari Kissinger, director of sustainability for Boyne Golf. “We are proud of the hard work to better the environment that’s being accomplished in Michigan. We know other courses across the country will be inspired to act too.”