A Sustainable Partnership for Golf
Bluewater, a global leader in sustainable hydration, has joined forces with the non-profit GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation to promote plastic-free hydration and environmental responsibility in golf. This collaboration aims to reduce plastic waste, build trust in clean drinking water, and enhance sustainability across the sport.
As part of this initiative, a portion of every Bluewater refillable bottle sold at golf venues and tournaments worldwide will support sustainability efforts in golf. With over 60 million players globally, this partnership drives real change in one of the world’s most popular sports.
Tackling Plastic Waste in Golf
Bengt Rittri, Founder & CEO of Bluewater, emphasised the sport’s role in environmental conservation: “Golf offers a unique opportunity to connect people with nature while addressing key sustainability issues, from water quality to plastic pollution. Through this partnership, we will help golf venues and tournaments reduce their footprint while encouraging players and fans to make sustainable choices.”
Addressing Global Water Concerns
Water security and contamination risks are growing concerns worldwide. According to recent United Nations reports, challenges such as ageing infrastructure, the presence of PFAS ‘forever chemicals,’ and heavy metal contamination are affecting water quality. Furthermore, over 600 billion single-use plastic water bottles are discarded globally each year, contributing to severe environmental pollution.
Bluewater’s advanced purification systems remove over 99% of contaminants from local water sources, then remineralise, chill, and carbonate water on-site. This ensures high-quality hydration without plastic waste. Paired with stylish, reusable bottles that come with a lifetime guarantee, the system provides a practical and sustainable refill solution at golf venues.
A Greener Future for Golf
Jonathan Smith, Founder & Executive Director of GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation, welcomed the collaboration, stating: “For two decades, we’ve worked to advance sustainability in golf. As the sport continues to grow, it’s crucial to embrace solutions like Bluewater’s that help reduce plastic waste and promote responsible water use.”
Additionally, the partnership will introduce the Bluewater Innovation Awards, recognising outstanding leadership in plastic waste reduction and water stewardship within golf.
St Andrews Links Leads the Way
St Andrews Links, widely regarded as the Home of Golf, will be the first venue globally to retail Bluewater’s purpose-driven bottles. As a GEO Certified® facility for nearly 15 years, St Andrews Links has fully integrated Bluewater’s sustainable hydration solutions to eliminate single-use plastics.
James Ralley, Commercial Director at St Andrews Links Trust, highlighted the importance of this initiative:
“Our partnership with Bluewater aligns with our commitment to sustainability in golf. By eliminating single-use plastic bottles through refill stations and bottle sales, we are leading by example while supporting broader environmental initiatives.”
Accelerating Sustainable Change in Golf
Since The R&A first implemented Bluewater solutions at The Open in 2019, adoption has rapidly expanded across the sport. Major golf organisations and prestigious venues now using Bluewater’s hydration systems include:
- DP World Tour events
- LIV Golf
- Asian Tour
- Royal Portrush, Pebble Beach, and St Andrews Links
This growing movement highlights golf’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring that future generations of players and fans can enjoy the sport while protecting the environment.