Hero Dubai Desert Classic launches global sustainability challenge

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic has launched a first-of-its-kind, global challenge to crowdsource sustainable solutions to address the challenges posed by climate change in the events sector. 

The Green Incubator Challenge, created in partnership with Deloitte, is open to entrepreneurs, start-ups, students and companies around the world to submit innovative sustainable solutions for events. 

Submissions can include both new concepts and ready-to-deploy solutions, organisers said, adding that the winner will be able to roll out their idea at the 2027 DP World Tour and Rolex Series tournament. 

The initiative aims to drive meaningful change and accelerate innovation in sustainability across sport and entertainment industries.

Throughout the challenge, the tournament and Deloitte will provide expert guidance, mentoring and evaluation, ensuring ideas are not only visionary but also feasible and scalable.

"Through this challenge, we aim to identify bold, visionary ideas that will shape the future of sustainable events globally," said Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of Hero Dubai Desert Classic. 

"The Green Incubator Challenge exemplifies how collaboration between sports and entertainment industry leaders and innovators can accelerate the transition to greener events," added Daniel Gribbin, Sustainability Leader at Deloitte Middle East.

Maria Grandinetti-Milton, Director of Sustainability at the DP World Tour, added: “As part of our Green Drive programme and commitment to be net zero carbon by 2040, we’re always encouraging our tournaments and promoters to embrace sustainability innovation."

A shortlist of submissions will be announced on November 18, with three finalists picked on December 19. They will then present their ideas to a panel of expert judges the week of the 2026 tournament.