Environmental impact Low
Employer/employee ranking 40/31
Staff numbers 150
Energy reduction 0%
Recycling n/a

Described as one of the most beautiful places on earth, the internationally acclaimed Loch Lomond golf course sits on the Colquhoun estate, which dates back to the 12th century. A 30-minute drive from Glasgow, it is an exclusive haven for those who can afford the £75,000 membership and £3,250 annual fee. Former footballer Alan Shearer, England cricketer Paul Collingwood and Prince Andrew are among those who play here. Golfer Colin Montgomerie chose it as the location for his wedding last month.

“It is like a bubble of beauty,” says Niall Flanagan, the managing director. The estate is home to an abundance of trees and wildlife, including three white deer, owls, bats and a long list of birds. The 840 acres of parkland includes three sites of special scientific interest.

Designed by golfer Tom Weiskopf and architect Jay Morrish, the course opened in 1994 and two years later put its environmental management plan into practice.

David Cole, golf course superintendent, says in contrast to what people think golf is not bad for the environment. “If golf was bad for the environment would we have all these birds and the flora and fauna?” he asks. “We try to minimise pesticide and fertiliser use by good cultural practice, good drainage systems and good woodland management.”

Employees think the club’s eco initiatives are worth the money (giving a green score of 85% ) and say their boss is open to new ideas on how to make it even greener (84%). Although most travel in by car, earning Loch Lomond a green score of just 22%, there are facilities for those who want to walk, cycle or run to work (81%).

The programme for this year’s Scottish Open, which will be held at the club in July, will for the first time ask the tournament’s 85,000 visitors to be green and make them aware of its eco policy. Workers say Loch Lomond’s green commitments are serious (80%) and feel its impact on the environment is improving (83%).