Audubon International Marks a Successful Year in Sustainability
News Summary
Audubon International celebrates significant growth in environmental certifications in 2025, with golf and lodging leading the way. Nearly 200 certifications were awarded, highlighting a growing trend towards eco-friendly practices. The organization’s initiatives are fostering community engagement and sustainability awareness. With an emphasis on third-party verification, Audubon International is setting a standard for environmental stewardship and inspiring others to follow suit. The future looks bright as they continue to promote a greener tomorrow.
Audubon International Celebrates a Thriving Year for Environmental Certifications
As we look ahead to the future, Audubon International is basking in the glow of a particularly exciting year—2025! This non-profit organization, committed to environmental certifications and conservation initiatives, has experienced remarkable growth in new certifications across all its programs. It seems like the world is leaning more towards sustainable practices, and Audubon International is leading the charge!
Golf and Lodging: The Stars of New Certifications
So, what’s driving this strong momentum? It turns out that the golf and lodging categories were the heavyweights in terms of new certifications awarded. Whether it’s teeing off on a meticulously maintained course or enjoying a green getaway, people are becoming increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint.
In total, nearly 200 recertifications went out to existing partners, with many of these environmentally friendly certifications being held since the 1990s. Talk about dedication to sustainability! Audubon International’s programs encompass a broad range of categories including:
- Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP)
- ACSP for Golf
- Green Hospitality
- Signature Sanctuary
- Sustainable Communities
Each program includes third-party verification of sustainable practices to ensure integrity and transparency. That means you can sleep easy knowing that those certifications are tougher to earn than a gold medal in gymnastics!
Focus on the Green
Have you ever thought about what it takes for a golf course to get certified? The categories for the golf program certification are quite comprehensive. They cover everything from Environmental Planning and Wildlife and Habitat Management to Water Conservation and even Outreach and Education. It’s all about creating a balance between enjoying nature and protecting it.
In 2025, the ACSP for Golf continues to shine as the flagship certification, boasting nearly 2,000 courses worldwide. Some notable new certifications this year include fantastic golf courses across various locations, such as:
- Club Campestre Guaymaral
- RJ National Golf Course
- Peterborough Golf & Country Club
- Old Sandwich and the Kittansett Club
- Victory Ranch
Green Hospitality is on the Rise
But wait, there’s more! The demand for Green Lodging and Green Hospitality programs is definitely on the upswing, showing that folks prefer eco-friendliness in their vacation destinations. Newly certified Green Hospitality Partners include some eye-catching names like:
- Ojai Valley Inn
- Marriott’s Canyon Villas at Desert Ridge
- St. Kitts Marriott & The Royal Beach Casino
- Multiple Hyatt Vacation Club destinations
Engagement Through Community Initiatives
Audubon International also held its annual BioBlitz competition, which registered an incredible total of 1,290 species from May 15 to June 15, 2025. This is an excellent way to increase community engagement and foster environmental stewardship. The award winners this year include:
- Glencoe Golf Course for Community Engagement
- Ironwood Golf Course for Biodiversity
- Naples Lake Country Club for Best Photograph
Looking Ahead
With Ken Benoit stepping in as the Director of Signature Sanctuary Certification, the organization is positioned for continued growth. Bring it on, sustainability! The Signature Sanctuary Program dedicated to improving environmental practices in newly constructed or renovating golf courses, resorts, and communities stands to benefit tremendously from his wealth of experience in the industry.
As Audubon International continues to champion environmental awareness, certified properties are not just satisfied with obtaining certifications. They’re motivated to report their sustainability progress to stakeholders, thereby setting a vibrant example for others to follow. The promise of a greener future is bright, and the admirable efforts of organizations like Audubon International are lighting the way!
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