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The host venue of the CJ Cup, the largest PGA Tour event in Asia and part of the FedEx series, has received further international recognition – this time for their proactive work in sustainability.

The club has achieved the widely endorsed and accredited Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) Certified label for commitment and action in fostering nature, conserving resources and supporting the community.

Chris Ahn, Head of Golf Operations for CJ Corporation, said: “We are delighted to be able to announce this prestigious international recognition for Nine Bridges. We see our environmental and social responsibility in golf being a direct extension of the CJ Corporation values and principles, and also very closely linked with our position as a World Golf Top 100 venue.”

Jonathan Smith, Executive Director at GEO Foundation, added: “This award is a great example of the ever-closer link between sustainability and quality. Consumers of all types are placing increasing value on products and services that respect and add value to the local environment and communities. We are excited about working further with the club and other partners to further promote these important messages.”

The Nine Bridges certification follows in the footsteps of Haesley Nine Bridges on the South Korean mainland, which was first GEO Certified in 2015 and again in 2018. Both sites have been audited by independent verifier YS Baek, an experienced environmental consultant based in Seoul.

The presentation of the GEO Certified award was part of a suite of activities at the CJ Cup to advance understanding and action on key topics relevant to the future of golf. At the second edition of the Nine Bridges Forum, speakers from around the golfing world explored topics ranging from accessibility, image, golf design and development, sustainability and rankings.

Building on a Sustainability Appraisal carried out by GEO Foundation for last year’s tournament, there were a number of sustainability initiatives on show around the CJ Cup, including a dedication to local suppliers and contractors; caterers who use local and organic ingredients and avoid single use plastics; new spectator recycling points; and the use of water bottles made from bio-plastic produced by the CJ Corporation.