Have your say: environmental sustainability in the equestrian industry

British Equestrian (BEF) is delighted to today release its industry wide survey around environmental sustainability in order to help us shape a strategy to address the risks, challenges and opportunities to support the wider equine community on this fundamental social impact topic. 

Prepared by leading environment consultancy White Griffin, the five-minute survey is targeted at businesses and individuals to gather opinion on pressing issues such as water availability, land stewardship, energy, emissions, waste and resources. We also want to hear about some best practice examples in the industry from those directly involved, so that we can learn more about successful schemes that are already making a positive difference to the environment.

Concurrently, as part of the joint project, our colleagues in Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) are launching a survey to their members to develop a consolidated message and ensure lived experiences are shared for mutual benefit across both equestrian landscapes in the two countries. 

British Equestrian Chief Executive Jim Eyre commented; “Our impact on the environment is becoming more evident and the time is now to make impactful change and improvement. One of the greatest assets of the horse/human interaction is the benefit of engaging in nature – to be able to continue to do this without further damage to our landscape, we must safeguard our future. We ask that as many people across our sector provide their input into the survey as possible to ensure that the report and resultant strategy that will be developed is authentic, achievable and representative. Collectively, this is our chance to make a difference and decide for ourselves how we responsibly deliver that change.”

The survey is now live and is open to anyone in the equestrian industry – whatever your position, role or level of involvement, all are welcome to take part – we want to hear your thoughts. The survey will close on 17 April and will be followed up by a report and recommendations from White Griffin which the BEF will then be used to shape an environmental sustainability strategy for us and our  member bodies as well as the entire industry. 

The BEF and HSI are grateful for the support of Sport England and Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine respectively in this ground-breaking research project. 

TAKE THE SURVEY

Photo: British Equestrian/Jon Stroud Media