British Showjumping: Sustainability
In December 2023 the British Showjumping Sustainability Strategy was launched in partnership with British Dressage. This strategy represented an understanding of the risks facing the world and the equine industry, and the positive role that we can all play in creating a sustainable future.
Climate change is already impacting equine sport through increased extreme weather events, water shortages and supply chain pressures, all affecting equine welfare. The strategy seeks to both minimize the negative impact of equestrian activity on the natural world, while also adapting to these unprecedented changes to safeguard the future of our sport.
Read the strategy HERE
The strategy sets out an ambitious programme of measures and targets for the British Showjumping Office building, The National Training Centre and organisation run events.
The measures implemented to date have focused on five key areas
Emissions
A critical factor in our sustainability journey will be from reducing emissions. These will be measured and monitored to assess progress in this area.
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The British Showjumping Office Building was installed with solar panels in 2011, providing a renewable energy source.
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In 2015, the office lighting and air conditioning was upgraded to improve efficiency, reducing both energy use and cost.
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Electric Vehicle Charging points were installed at the office building car park in 2017, this measure supported staff and visitors who drive these vehicles.
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The indoor arena and accommodation block at the National Training Centre have been installed with solar panels.
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In 2021, the National Training Centre installed mains electricity hook up and an electric heating system in the canteen and meeting rooms, reducing the use of oil and gas in generators and boilers.
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Office based meetings have been significantly reduced and introduction of hybrid training models and flexible working options have reduced emissions from both staff and volunteer travel.
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In 2022, LED lights were installed in the stables at The National Training Centre, reducing electricity use.
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A significant quantity of Coach CPD training takes place online, reducing emissions and making training more accessible.
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The first Electric Vehicle Charging points were installed at The National Training Centre in 2024.
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In 2024 the British Showjumping Office Building and The National Training Centre, used electricity generated from 100% renewable sources.
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Staff emissions were further reduced in 2024 through the initiation of a car sharing scheme in partnership with British Dressage.
Biodiversity
British Showjumping aims to demonstrate best practice in biodiversity enhancement, emphasising the role of the equine industry as stewards of the natural world
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In 2022, Aquatic plants were placed in a drainage pond at the training centre to promote biodiversity.
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In 2023, 50 fruit trees were planted at The National Training Centre as part of the Queen’s Green canopy.
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In 2024 Pollinator friendly plants, such as honeysuckle and lavender, were planted at the British Showjumping Office building. This has increased the presence of bees and butterflies in the outside space.
Water
Reducing water waste will ensure that there is sufficient water available to provide good horse welfare without placing undue stress on the natural environment
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In 2020 rainwater harvesting began at The National Training Centre and a borehole was sunk. This reduces dependency on mains water and is used to maintain the outdoor arenas.
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In 2024, waterless urinals were installed at the Office Building, reducing water consumption.
Resources
Embracing digital solutions and procuring items from sustainable sources will reduce the organisation’s use of natural resources.
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Many processes including, membership renewals, show results and schedules have moved online to reduce paper use.
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Investment in live scoring at major events has reduced the requirement for paper based judging.
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Member resources, such as the handbook, are available for members to download online, reducing the volume of paper copies produced.
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In 2023, the updated delivery model of BSCC qualifications utilised digital learning resources, reducing paper use and improving the coach learning experience.
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In 2023 Unibed became the official bedding supplier at The National Training Centre. This bedding is produced from chopped straw and the wrappers are recycled by the manufacturers.
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The British Showjumping Sustainability Award was presented for the first time in 2024, recognising partners who have made a substantial contribution to sustainable practices.
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2024 – Charles Owen
- 100% renewable energy, of which 30% generated by onsite solar as part of their Net Zero commitment
- Rainwater harvesting at the factory to provide the water needed in production
- Onsite wildflowers and over 7,000 trees planted to date
- Commitment to both recycled packaging and the use of recycled materials in their helmets as part of next level innovations
Waste
British Showjumping’s focus is on reducing our total waste production and ensuring that waste practices maximize recycling and reuse.
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A review of waste management took place in 2022 to better understand volumes and how our waste is processed.
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At the end of 2024, 66% of all waste generated at the British Showjumping Office was recycled.
If you would like information on the full strategy or how you can make your activities more sustainable, please follow the links below.
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