Why the WM Phoenix Open Is the Most Eco-Friendly Bucket List Stop for Golf Fans

Golf Travel Tips, Arizona, Scottsdale

Zero Waste and Clean Energy: Driving Sustainability in the Game

The WM Phoenix Open has earned the title of the "Greenest Show on Grass" thanks to its status as a leading zero-waste sporting event. That means all waste is recycled, composted, donated, or used for energy recovery. The site is equipped with Zero Waste Stations that feature waste sorting systems and volunteers who assist you in properly diverting the waste. But that’s just one of the aspects that granted the tour the GEO Certified distinction, the highest level of certification for sustainability in golf.

In 2024, the WM Phoenix Open once again achieved 100% landfill diversion, continuing its streak as the largest verified zero-waste event in the world. According to a detailed report, out of 5,000 tons of total materials managed, 57% were recycled, 6% were composted, 20% were donated, and the remainder was converted into energy through reuse and other innovative processes.

Every year, TPC Scottsdale becomes a model of renewable energy use. In 2024, the event was powered by 100% renewable electricity, sourced from solar and wind energy. EM also deployed electric and renewable natural gas (RNG) vehicles for shuttle and logistics services, cutting down the event’s total fuel emissions by 30% compared to the previous year.

In addition, the tournament’s iconic WM hospitality suites and the 16th hole grandstands were fitted with rooftop solar panels, generating 400,000 kWh of clean power, enough to offset the energy used by all tournament operations.

Carbon Neutral and Beyond

WMPO remains one of the few major sporting events to achieve carbon neutrality for its operations. In 2024, organizers offset 13,700 metric tons of CO2, covering emissions from transportation, electricity, and waste. The carbon credits were sourced from verified North American forestry and renewable energy projects all across Arizona.

Over the lifespan of its sustainability program, the WMPO has offset more than 100,000 metric tons of CO2, equivalent to the annual carbon absorption of approximately 165,000 acres of forest. That’s an impact most stadiums and golf tournaments can only dream of matching.

Water Conservation and Reuse

Located in Arizona’s desert, the WM Phoenix Open simply can’t neglect water management technology. In fact, it’s a critical part of the tournament’s eco-strategy. For example, the 2024 event restored 4 million gallons of water through WM’s partnership with Bonneville Environmental Foundation’s Water Restoration Certificates (WRCs).

All greywater from kitchens, concessions, and hospitality areas was processed and reused for irrigation, while turf management used smart moisture sensors to cut consumption by 10% compared to the previous year. These practices enable the WMPO to remain water-positive. That means it produces more than it spends.

Food Cannot be Wasted

The attendance for the 2025 WM Phoenix Open was estimated at around 500,000 to 600,000 visitors for the week. All these people need food, and usually, such a massive event can trigger food waste. The tournament fixed this problem by enforcing strict sustainability policies for vendors.

It seems that the policy is working because in 2024, more than 50,000 meals were donated, fighting food insecurity in the Phoenix area. Moreover, 75% of all food was locally sourced within a 200-mile radius of Scottsdale. This approach has a double effect. It supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint required for food transportation at the same time. Lastly, 80% of the packaging was made from compostable or recyclable materials. The tour also introduced eco-suites, built from reclaimed materials, featured low-flow water systems, and offered plant-based menu options, merging comfort with conscience.

Community Impact Beyond the Gates

Beyond environmental impact, WMPO invests heavily in social sustainability. In 2024 alone, the tournament raised $17.5 million for local charity, bringing its all-time total to more than $190 million.

The WM Phoenix Open’s approach has become a model for sports sustainability worldwide. Its third-party certifications, including Council for Responsible Sport Evergreen Certification and ISO 20121 Event Sustainability Management, set it apart from every other PGA event.

For perspective, most major golf tournaments divert less than 50% of their waste, and none come close to the WMPO’s integrated model, which combines energy, waste, and water management. The tournament’s closed-loop approach is a measurable achievement, not just a slogan.