Sand is a resource that we often take for granted, yet it plays a vital role in our daily lives. Kurt Bjorkman, COO of The Ranch at Laguna Beach, highlights the significance of sand, stating that after water and air, it is the most consumed resource globally. From the concrete used in construction to the glass in our windows, sand is omnipresent in our surroundings.
Sustainable Practices in Golf Course Management
The Ranch at Laguna Beach, with its nine-hole golf course, faces the challenge of maintaining its bunkers with fresh sand. Bjorkman emphasizes the importance of using the right type of sand, with specific grain size and shape, to ensure the optimal playing conditions for golfers. This need for sand presents an opportunity for sustainable innovation in golf course management.
Recognizing the environmental impact of traditional sand mining, Bjorkman sought a more eco-friendly alternative. His search led him to Expleco Limited, a company from New Zealand that specializes in crushing glass bottles to produce high-quality sand. By investing in Expleco’s bottle-crushing system, The Ranch at Laguna Beach found a sustainable solution that not only meets their sand needs but also reduces costs and eliminates glass waste.
The sand produced from crushed glass not only matches the quality of traditional bunker sand but also offers cost savings for The Ranch at Laguna Beach. Bjorkman notes that the visually appealing sand, with a subtle emerald tinge from crushed green glass, allows the property to maintain its golf course in an eco-friendly manner. In addition, the process eliminates the need for importing sand and processing glass waste, making it a sustainable choice for the resort.
Overall Sustainability Efforts at The Ranch
Beyond the use of recycled glass sand, The Ranch at Laguna Beach has integrated various sustainable practices into its golf course operations. By irrigating all landscaping, including the golf course, with reclaimed wastewater and using organic products for turf maintenance, the property demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship. Moreover, the resort has reduced its turf area and introduced native vegetation to minimize its environmental footprint.
The story of sand at The Ranch at Laguna Beach serves as a powerful example of sustainability in action. By reimagining sand as a renewable resource through innovative solutions like recycled glass sand, the property showcases how businesses can prioritize environmental conservation without compromising on quality. As we reflect on the importance of sand in our world, it becomes clear that sustainable practices not only benefit the environment but also contribute to long-term success in the hospitality industry.