Environmental answers

ALONGSIDE the measures we can take to address emissions and the global environment, there are things we can do to improve sustainability more locally, too.

POLLUTION

Reduce the use of plastics by reusing disposable items where appropriate – some medical devices, plastic gloves, plastic bags and packaging are suitable candidates.

Recycle suitable items – an example is donating unwanted headcollars or lead ropes which are in good condition to equine welfare charities.

Check if the plastic wrappers on bales of shavings or other bedding are recyclable. If yes, great.

If no, can you source an alternative product that does have recyclable wrappers?

The equestrian market is starting to produce various eco-friendly accessories.

Look for products which are made from recycled materials, for example rugs for your horse or leggings for you.

Also, look for products that are made locally to you, by methods which reduce water and energy consumption, such as those that use renewable energy, and which have recyclable packaging.

REDUCING WATER CONSUMPTION

Horses often find rainwater more palatable than tap water. Setting up guttering and water butts is an easy way to conserve rainwater, which can be used as drinking water or for soaking hay as long as it is kept clean.

Well-stored rainwater can also be used to wash down horses and to clean buckets, boots and other equipment.

Make sure that all the plumbing hardware works properly.

Fixing a dripping tap could save up to 5,000 litres of water a year, and a leaking toilet could be responsible for wasting 600 litres of water a day.

PHARMACEUTICALS

Take care to store and use medications as directed by your vet, and dispose of any waste safely to prevent it entering the environment. Most vets will be happy to take back unused or out-ofdate medicines for appropriate disposal.

Protect and limit the use of equine anthelmintics by targeting treatments only to horses that need treating. Avoid using them

“just in case”.