Audubon International – the environmentally focused non-profit organization offering members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we all live, work, and play – reports that 2023 saw new certifications across all six of its programs more than double from the previous two calendar years.
From 2022 to 2023, new certifications increased by 115%. From 2021 to 2023, they grew by nearly 105%. Programs include Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary (ACSP), ACSP for Golf, Green Lodging, Green Hospitality, Signature Sanctuary and Sustainable Communities. Most new certifications were awarded in the golf and lodging categories.
“We’re gratified and honored that 2023 was such a banner year for new certification growth across our suite of programs,” says Christine Kane, CEO. “We truly finished our 35th year as a respected and proven stewardship partner on a high note, and 2024 promises to bring more growth as well. With every passing year it’s truly inspiring and proof positive that we are helping golf courses, resorts, communities, and businesses of all kinds lead the way to a brighter future for the planet, and for all who coexist on it.”
While the ACSP for Golf continues as the organization’s flagship certification path, with nearly 900 certified courses worldwide, in 2023 Audubon International also expanded its Signature Sanctuary program to offer a Platinum level option for new projects–a comprehensive, overarching path that includes golf, lodging, other buildings and infrastructure. Each program provides third-party on-site verification of vetted, science-supported sustainable practices and benchmarks across all required categories. In the case of golf, that includes Environmental Planning, Wildlife and Habitat Management, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, Water Quality Management, and Outreach and Education.
Each year, Audubon International’s team of Environmental Specialists perform initial site visits at prospective certified properties across the country and internationally. They then provide point-by-point feedback based on each venue’s location, resources, budgets, and needs, help keep them on track through the process, and sign off on new certifications and recertifications once all criteria are met. Timelines vary but can take up to a year or more. Once certified, each partner has powerful proof of their sustainability efforts to report to members, customers, managers, owners, and other stakeholders.
To learn more about how your local golf course, community, lodging property or resort can gain recognition for your environmental efforts or to learn how to expand your initiatives through Audubon International’s numerous environmental certifications, visit www.auduboninternational.org or call toll free: 1-844-767-9051
About Audubon International
An environmentally focused non-profit organization, Audubon International offers members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we all live, work, and play. Its certifications are designed to increase environmental awareness, encourage sustainable environmental efforts, and educate both its members and their communities.
