Zurich Classic of New Orleans Wins PGA TOUR Sustainability Award

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans was honored with the PGA TOUR’s Sustainability Award presented by WM Phoenix Open at the TOUR’s annual meeting last month, announced Steve Worthy, CEO of the Fore!Kids Foundation, producer of the tournament.

“This award recognizes our tournament's remarkable strides in recycling and sustainability initiatives,” said Worthy. “The honor highlights the individual tournament that demonstrates significant progress in environmental stewardship and community impact during the season,” Worthy added.

Celebrating the second year of its dedicated sustainability program, the Zurich Classic expanded its initiatives in 2024 through innovative partnerships, enhanced waste diversion strategies, and policies that underscore its ecological commitment.

"The progress achieved in 2024 is substantial, and our commitment to enhancing sustainability efforts continues with unwavering passion each year," said Alban Laloum, Chief Customer Officer, Zurich North America.

Amid record-breaking spectator attendance at the 2024 event, the tournament achieved an extraordinary milestone, diverting 33 tons of waste — an 887% increase from 2023.

Key highlights from the sustainability program included:

• Oyster shell recycling: Over 14,000 oyster shells were recycled through a partnership with the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, aiding coastal restoration efforts.
• Mesh recycling: Five tons of mesh were processed by Alpha Omega Plastics and repurposed into lawn edging, marking the first large-scale mesh recycling program in tournament history.
• Glass recycling: 1.68 tons of glass were recycled through Glass Half Full, contributing to coastal restoration, disaster relief, and the production of new glass products.
• Food donations: 1,500 meals were donated to the New Orleans Mission to support local communities.
• Material diversion: Over eight tons of wood were repurposed by the Green Project, 2.2 tons of cardboard were recycled, and 11.7 tons of construction and demolition materials were diverted.

The tournament’s efforts also inspired lasting change. Partner hotel The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel launched its first corporate recycling program with Realcycle, capturing critical recycling data and establishing an ongoing commitment to sustainability.

The Zurich Classic's sustainability achievements were celebrated at the PGA TOUR’s annual winter meetings in Orlando, Florida, on December 11, 2024. The tournament will continue its ecological efforts with more advancements planned for the 2025 Zurich Classic of New Orleans, scheduled for April 21–27 at TPC Louisiana.