This conversation highlights Marriott Golf’s proactive initiatives, from smarter water use to reducing inputs like chemicals and energy.
Sustainability in golf is no longer just a buzzword; it’s becoming a defining principle for the future of the sport. As challenges around resources and environmental impact grow, leaders in the industry are stepping forward with innovative approaches. Among them is David Robinson, Senior Director of Golf Grounds at Marriott International, who oversees a global portfolio of over 50 courses and has a unique perspective on how to balance tradition, performance, and responsibility.
David brings decades of expertise in agronomy and a visionary mindset to his role. He’s driven by a belief that the courses we enjoy today should be left in even better condition for future generations. His work emphasizes efficiency, creativity, and technology to address modern challenges in ways that make sense for both the environment and the bottom line.
This conversation highlights Marriott Golf’s proactive initiatives, from smarter water use to reducing inputs like chemicals and energy. David explores how innovative irrigation systems, turfgrass advancements, and automation are creating more sustainable, cost-effective, and reliable outcomes. His perspective shows how practical solutions can yield lasting benefits.
David’s leadership is a reminder that sustainability isn’t about compromise; it’s about opportunity. By focusing on smarter, data-driven practices and working with top partners in the industry, he’s helping shape a future for golf that’s both responsible and exciting, one decision at a time.
Topics covered:
- David Robinson’s Career and Role at Marriott Golf [00:00]
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- David discusses his 23-year tenure at Marriott and his agronomy background, managing a global portfolio of over 50 golf courses.
- Highlights the diversity of Marriott Golf's operations, from climates and turf types to the unique challenges of each property.
- Describes Marriott Golf's growth over 50 years, including projects in new markets like Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, and the Bahamas.
- Shares insights into the demands of managing such a vast and geographically dispersed operation.
- Defining Sustainability at Marriott Golf [4:39]
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- David explains how Marriott Golf aligns with Marriott International's corporate sustainability strategy.
- Emphasizes improving golf courses over time, aiming to leave them better for future generations.
- Details Marriott’s focus on reducing carbon footprints, and water consumption, and maintaining Audubon certification as a benchmark of environmental stewardship.
- Talks about the company's commitment to being net-zero carbon by 2050.
- Tackling Carbon Footprints and Water Management [6:22]
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- Explores how Marriott Golf is addressing carbon reduction, starting with baseline calculations using tools from Syngenta and the GEO Foundation.
- Shares lessons learned from initial carbon footprint analyses and Marriott’s goals to scale these efforts globally.
- Discusses water management strategies, including reducing irrigated acreage, adopting advanced turfgrasses, and upgrading irrigation technology.
- Highlights the role of technology in making water management more precise and efficient.
- Challenges and Opportunities in a Global Portfolio [12:33]
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- David reflects on managing geographically diverse courses, from Orlando to Fiji, and how each presents unique challenges.
- Shares the importance of adapting to local conditions, whether related to climate, regulations, or available resources.
- Describes Marriott Golf's approach to collaboration among its superintendents, fostering shared learning through regional gatherings and best practice exchanges.
- Partnerships and Cutting-Edge Technology [15:42]
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- Highlights collaborations with Toro, Rain Bird, and other industry leaders to advance sustainable practices and technologies.
- Discusses the potential of innovations like autonomous mowers, GPS-guided sprayers, and in-ground sensors for improving golf course operations.
- Provides examples of how these technologies are being piloted at Marriott properties, showing early success in reducing costs and resource usage.
- The Vision for the Future of Golf Course Irrigation [17:59]
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- Shares a vision for smarter, automated irrigation systems that rely on interconnected sensors, weather stations, and drones.
- Describes the need for systems that make real-time decisions to reduce water waste while maintaining optimal course conditions.
- Discusses challenges to adoption, including integration across platforms and the importance of superintendent buy-in for new technologies.
- Personal Inspiration and Legacy [33:00]
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- David reflects on the people who have inspired him throughout his career, including mentors like Ken Mangum from the Atlanta Athletic Club.
- Shares how his family and personal pursuits, including ultra-marathons and obstacle races, motivate him to stay driven.
- Talks about his hope to leave a legacy of improved practices and having a positive impact on those he has worked with throughout his career.
Resources & People Mentioned
Connect with Our Guests
LinkedIn: David Robinson
Connect With Golf Sustainability
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Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.
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