The role of golf courses in climate change adaptation through enhancing vegetation and forest cover in arid and semi-arid lands, Kenya

Resumo

This study focuses on the possibility of using golf as an avenue for climate change adaptation in arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) of Kenya. These regions are highly exposed to environmental problems such as water scarcity, soil degradation, and deforestation, among others, due to climate change. This study sought to find out how golf courses as managed green spaces could provide adaptation possibilities, particularly in the strategies of vegetation and tree cover maintenance. The study was guided by the Green Theory which was postulated by Robert E. Goodin. The study used an exploratory research design. The target population included local community members, golf players, caddies, climate change experts, and national and county government officials within sports and the environment. The study used stratified purposive sampling to ensure adequate representation from different sub-groups within the target population.  Emphasis was given to what the vegetation of golf courses can contribute to the increase of the forest, which in turn could replace the loss of forest areas and support native species. The quantitative data obtained from the Likert scale questionnaires were analysed through statistical methods with the help of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS); the presentation was in descriptive statistics, such as frequency. Qualitative data gathered from in-depth interviews were transcribed and coded, then thematically analysed with the help of NVivo software. This analysis facilitated the identification of key themes and patterns. The findings suggest that golf courses help increase forested cover by planting local trees, reducing desertification and creating microclimates that help various species thrive. The study concludes that integrating golf courses in climate adaptation strategies is a unique and underutilised method for conserving the environment in ASAL counties. Golf courses demonstrate that sports infrastructure can be used for sustainable land use and help with climate resilience. However, maximising their impact requires a multi-sectoral approach involving policymakers, environmental agencies, and local communities. Key recommendations were to involve giving incentives to golf courses that follow sustainable practices, including golf course management in community land use plans and raising public awareness about the environmental advantages of golf. It is important to build stronger partnerships between golf clubs and local governments to promote knowledge transfer and capacity-building for sustainable water and vegetation management.