Spanish resort puts sustainability goal in writing

Camiral Golf & Wellness (formerly PGA Catalunya) introduced new sustainability actions that will cut water consumption on its golf courses by 35 percent and elevate the customer experience at Spanish golf resort.

Following a recent 1 million euro sustainability-focused investment in its Stadium Course and to Hotel Camiral, the resort is implementing new water reduction measures, which include reducing irrigated areas, changing turf variety and conducting a study to update its irrigation system with the latest water-saving technology.

“As a European Tour Destination and a leading golf resort in Spain, we recognize the importance of sustainable water management,” Camiral Golf & Wellness CEO David Plana said. “We are committed to taking proactive measures to minimize our environmental impact – already validated by our use of 100 percent recycled water across the resort since our opening in 1999.

“These new actions will be implemented over three years, reducing our water consumption by an estimated 35 precent, clearly demonstrating our commitment to responsible golf course management, especially at a time when it is critical to protect precious water resources in the region.”

“Last year we entered a new era in our history as Camiral Golf & Wellness and this continued investment further shows our commitment to elevating the customer experience at Spain’s number one golf resort.”

Earlier this year, Camiral Golf & Wellness was recognized in a new “Green 100” listing for its approach, commitment and understanding of how golf is an integral part of the local nature and landscape. The new classification was compiled by Golf World in association with GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf to highlight the most environmentally conscious and socially responsible golf courses in Europe.

In 2022, Camiral Golf & Wellness introduced tall fescue to its green complexes, and then in 2023, it began the implementation of Celebration Bermudagrass on its tees and surrounding areas. The Bermudagrass variety is conducive to the Mediterranean climate.

“The first phase of work was completed in July 2023 and included changing the turf variety on our tee boxes, its surrounds and carry to the fairways to the same species grown at the renowned Augusta National in the U.S.,” director of agronomy David Bataller said. “The new grass types – which include Celebration Bermuda, Platinum Paspalum, bentgrass and tall Fescue – are producing the best turf surfaces in the world and they can all be watered with recycled water.

“Being native to the region, they also have high resistance to diseases and pests. We will also be conducting a study to upgrade our irrigation system to the latest sprinklers and reducing our irrigated areas to playing areas only.

“As a world-class destination for international golfers, we are committed to maintaining our two championship courses in prime condition while also being responsible stewards of the environment by using sustainable practices and cutting-edge technologies to minimize our ecological impact."

Camiral Golf & Wellness is widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, including employing a full-time biologist to advise on ecological and sustainable golf course management. Measures include following a maintenance methodology more in line with natural parks and sanctuaries, rather than those adhered to by common golf courses.

The GEO Certified resort has received recognition from the STRI Group, administrators of The Golf Environment Awards, for its commitment to developing and preserving its green infrastructure through restoration of its wetlands and recolonization of near-extinct species, as well as achieving the IAGTO Sustainability Award for Nature Protection in 2020.