BHA identifies key environmental issues in new racing preview

the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) introduced an environmental and sustainability assessment of sport progress with the aim of assisting long-term planning for stakeholders.

The governing body said racing leaders need a “clearer overall picture of current environmental activity” recorded in the components of the sport’s value chain of breeding, training, races, equine trips, wellness race days, etc.

“We believe environmental sustainability is crucial to the future and long-term prosperity of British racing, which is why it is a key pillar of the Racing Foundation’s strategy,” commented Rob Hezel, Managing Director of the Racing Foundation.

“A lot of work has already been done across the industry, from decarbonization efforts to grassland management and waste reduction, so this work will help build a big picture of where we are and where we are. want to be.

“The research project will actively engage with businesses, employers and race participants, and in particular ‘those with a specialist interest or expertise in environmental sustainability’

The authority said the initial assessment will identify key sustainability issues, risks and opportunities for racing while helping governing bodies understand and communicate climate change risks to stakeholders and the public.

Scoping assessments will cover areas of environmental sustainability, including CO2 emissions, decarbonization and renewable energy, management of key resources such as water and plastics, and the potential for positive contributions through biodiversity.

The research project will be undertaken by a sustainability consultancy white griffinthrough a fund initiative of the Race Foundation. White Griffin has started the evaluation which will take place over a period of three months.

Ruth Dancer, The White Griffin Director commented: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with the racing industry on this project. Racing is a unique sport in terms of its relationship with the environment, so it’s a really exciting field with huge potential.

As project lead, White Griffin is currently completing an initial scoping exercise, before moving into the broader industry engagement phase to be launched in January 2022.

“Working closely with individuals and companies across the industry, we will explore the expertise and enthusiasm that exists within the race, gather information on ongoing activities and make recommendations on opportunities for ‘action,” Dancer continued.