Golf Clubs Move Toward Banning Plastic Tees to Protect the Environment
As environmental sustainability becomes a growing focus across industries, the golf world is increasingly debating whether plastic golf tees should be banned from courses.
Golf courses, which are closely connected with natural landscapes and wildlife habitats, have already begun adopting greener practices. Many clubs have reduced the use of pesticides and fertilizers, improved irrigation systems and created habitats that support birds and animals.
Now, attention is turning to a smaller but widely used item — the golf tee.
Plastic tees, which are durable and inexpensive, can take hundreds or even thousands of years to break down. Because golfers frequently lose them during play, millions of plastic tees are left behind on courses each year.
Industry estimates suggest that nearly five billion plastic tees are used worldwide annually, raising concerns about their long-term environmental impact.
Golf Clubs Beginning to Ban Plastic Tees
Some golf clubs have already decided to prohibit plastic tees entirely.
In 2020, a group of 25 golf clubs, including historic venues such as Royal North Devon Golf Club and Prince’s Golf Club, introduced bans on plastic tees.
More clubs have followed since then. Cardiff Golf Club implemented a full ban on plastic tees beginning January 1, 2026.
Club officials say the move reflects growing awareness about environmental protection.
Research has shown that plastic tees can break into smaller fragments that may be ingested by birds and small animals. Groundskeepers have also reported that discarded plastic tees can damage mowing equipment and maintenance machinery.
Alternatives: Wooden and Bamboo Tees
As plastic tees are phased out, many golfers are switching to wooden or bamboo tees.
However, wooden tees also present challenges. They tend to break more easily, meaning golfers may use several during a single round.
Some manufacturers argue that bamboo tees offer a better solution because bamboo grows quickly, making it a more sustainable resource compared with hardwood used for traditional wooden tees.
Industry Moving Toward Sustainability
The discussion reflects a broader shift in the golf industry toward sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Many golf organizations now encourage courses and players to reduce plastic use wherever possible.
While a universal ban on plastic tees has not yet been widely adopted, the trend toward biodegradable alternatives suggests that the future of golf equipment may increasingly favour environmentally friendly materials.