There’s one more way that this Club is ensuring that its ecological footprint is far smaller, and it’s happening in the kitchens. Members may have noticed that the to-go cups, straws and containers are a different color and texture. As part of Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club’s 2019 Going Green Program, former styro foam cups and plastic straws have been replaced with specialty biodegradable drinkware.
For many clubs, this change would be revolutionary, but for Chris Sozio, Executive Chef at Orchid Island, it’s just second nature. As both an outdoors person and someone who is aware of the Club’s ecological efforts, Chef Sozio ma the commitment to improve upon the Club’s environmentally conscious plan already in place. The addition of biodegradable drinkware is one of his many attempts in recognizing that goal.
Understanding the Club’s passion toward the environment and wildlife, he was able to locate specialty suppliers that would be able to fulfill the request for earth-friendly drinkware. “It is a little more costly to be involved with this green program,” Sozio shared. “but it’s something that’s important to me and the Club. As an Certified Aubudon Cooperative Sanctuary since 2005, we want to make sure that we’re doing our part, and there’s definitely some satisfaction in knowing that we’re using biodegradable green products.”
The use of biodegradable drinkware isn’t the only way that the Club is committed to going green. Sozio also goes through a great effort to ensure that he’s using produce from the local farms nearby. As he puts it, “all of the local farmers are making the deliveries in their family cars and farm trucks, often less than 20 miles away. Not only are we getting superior, locally grown produce but it requires very little fuel for the delivery.”
Even the members of Orchid Island can get in on the fun. Knowing that many are interested in finding out where their food comes from and how it was grown or produced, Sozio organizes field trips that take members to several farms in the county who supply much of the Club’s produce. “Our members actually get to go out in the fields with the farmers. The farmers explain what they’re growing and how they’re growing it, and the members get an opportunity to purchase from the farmer right on the spot. Then, we go right back to the club for an enjoyable meal featuring foods from those farms.” The outings have gained popularity from members who are interested in supporting local farms, and they often return to the farms to purchase more food.
The kitchens at Orchid Island aren’t the only area the Club has committed to going green – they’ve worked with local government and national conservation organizations to ensure that they’re leaving as small of a footprint on the environment as possible. Many golfers know of the Club’s status as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, procured by adapting to measures regarding water quality management and conservation, among others. This designation is part of the reason why birds such as white pelicans, egrets and ospreys are prevalent on the course. Furthermore, the private beach is maintained so that sea turtles can safely lay their eggs on its shores.
For those who want to get close to nature, the Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club amenities are second to none. Orchid Island works hard to preserve a way of life for, not only the natural neighbors who live on the Treasure Coast, but the residents as well. Members and residents also enjoy the convenience of a golf cart lifestyle. Traveling the community via golf cart makes getting to any of the amenities a fun and enjoyable experience, including the West Indies styled private Beach Club, which overlooks a private beach just for residents and their families to take pleasure in.
This private community is committed to providing an extraordinary level of service. Golf here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer designed; 18-hole course is not only revered as one of the best in the region, but considered a picturesque nature walk throughout this unique habitat. Luxury residential properties range from the $800’s up to $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums. For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, click here.
Intrigued by this one-of-a-kind destination? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about this amazing community and how the Vero Beach area embraces its natural wonderland.
If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Realty office and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772. 388.3888 to schedule a private appointment.
