Golf and nature on a par? – The ‘new conservation’ in practice. A study into proposed golf course developments in protected areas: The cases of Coul Links (Scotland) and De Hoge Duinen (The Netherlands).

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2018-06-22
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en
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Abstract
This research studies two proposals for golf course developments in protected areas, Coul Links (Scotland) and De Hoge Duinen (The Netherlands). It aims to explore the process of balancing socio-economic and nature conservation interests, as well as perceptions of golf courses’ nature conservation potential. These research aims are underpinned by a theoretical framework which draws from fundamental ideas about nature and its relation to humans, trends in European conservation policy, and the relation between golf and nature. The primary method of data collection was qualitative interviews, which were conducted with representatives of developers, and environmental, governmental and community organisations involved in the proposals. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the fundamental values that underpin conservation policy trends such as ‘no net loss’/’biodiversity net gain’ and biodiversity offsetting, and more broadly to the role that nature conservation plays in modern society. The research is also of value from a golf industry perspective, as it provides insights into how golf course development can accommodate nature conservation and social interests, for example through cooperative planning, low-impact construction, and multi-functionality.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen