The Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (TBA) has today launched a new video resource, outlining the benefits of greener practices on stud farms using its Stud Farm Carbon Calculator, in partnership with ADAS and with the support of the Racing Foundation.
The video was produced with Peter Hockenhull, examining the areas which have helped his 200-acre Shade Oak Stud in Shropshire reduce emissions originating from the horses, land management practices, fuel and energy usage, transportation and hard feed, as well as forage and bedding materials.
Since the Stud Farm Carbon Calculator was launched in November last year, a growing number of stud farms, including Flat and National Hunt breeders, both in the commercial and owner-breeder sectors, have signed up to use the digital tool. It's the first of its kind developed to specifically support breeders with baselining the carbon footprint of their stud farm and modelling scenarios for reducing their future negative impact on the environment.
Victoria Murrell, equine health and welfare manager for the TBA, said, “Creating a carbon footprint isn't just about being more environmentally friendly, it's also about reviewing the use of resources across the farm and identifying areas to save money.
“Shade Oak Stud is an excellent example of this, where Peter's engineering skills are put to good use repurposing existing unused materials; the planting of trees and hedgerows on unproductive or wet land has created shelter belts and cost-effective fencing solutions; investment in renewables has drastically reduced energy bills; and thorough composting of manure has created ample organic matter to improve the soils.
“The benefits are felt in the pocket, as well as in optimising biodiversity and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
Hockenhull added, “Since taking over the stud farm from my father, we have been working on becoming more energy efficient across the site and, essentially, I hate waste! The TBA's Stud Farm Carbon Calculator has helped us identify additional pockets across the stud farm where we can further reduce carbon emissions and become more self-sufficient.”
For further information on the TBA Stud Farm Carbon Calculator, click here.
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