The EEF’s central vision is to secure and sustain a social licence for the sport, inspire the growth and accessibility of the sport, all while holding horse welfare as the guiding principle of our leadership. In order to have a truly sustainable sport, that can enjoyed by future generations, we must protect all of those that make up the sport. The horses, the people and the environment.
Theo Ploegmakers, EEF President
EEF VISION
Lead. Develop. Promote.
The EEF exists to maximise the potential and development of equestrianism throughout Europe.
The EEF’s central mission is to lead the sport to be sustainable, across the environment, the people and the horse. This means developing strategies across our member federations and promoting sustainable practices to secure the future viability of equestrianism.
The horse lies as the central guiding force in all we do, ensuring their welfare, their environment and their care informs all decision-making.
LEAD
the advancement of the topic through research and partnerships to ensure sustainability is a priority in all discussions, while ensuring that all stakeholders have access to information and data to make informed decisions.
DEVELOP
environmental EEF policies for sustainability and present an environmentally conscious and sustainable organisation. Consider new ways to help our sport to be sustainable through competition, training and life at home with our horses, and help our member federations develop to do the same.
PROMOTE
and share examples of sustainable behaviours from across our industry. Showcase opportunities for member action and celebrate the achievements on this journey.
The EEF believes there are three main areas to action:
WITH THE HORSES
The central part of our sport, and the key factor in all decision making. We believe in providing a good life for horses, where welfare is of the highest importance.
Where talent is carefully produced and developed.
PART OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Protecting the natural resources that we need for life in this world, that provides land and nutrients for our horses and maintaining a climate that is appropriate for riding.
VALUE IN COMMUNITY
Creating a culture that is socially responsible, that fosters and protects the people within our sport that allow it to function. That encourages new entrants and supports their training and growth and connect with the community.
EEF Activities
Walk the Talk
In order to be a true leader in this field, it is important we do not only talk the talk, but walk the talk. This means ensuring we as an organisation are acting accordingly with our values, and developing ways to actively encourage others to too. We walk the talk through our research initiatives, programmes and tools.
Sustainability Webinars
Study to calculate carbon “hoofprints”
Event Sustainability Assesment
Sharing of Good Practices
Building the future
What equestrian people say:
Sustainability
The only way forward
Sustainability is the only way forward if we want to save the planet and every organisation, company and individual has to do its best to improve in this area. This is very important and a constant focus in everything we do. We have a slogan: Save the Earth, it is the only planet with horses.
Lövsta Stuteri, SWE
Sustainability
Step by step
Sustainability sometimes feels more difficult than it is, like it’s a big topic to take on. But when we can give people specific advice and guidance, it becomes easier and people want to do it. So looking at how one show can recycle water or reduce energy, then another show can take this information and adapt it. We have to find new solutions and develop new habits to make a difference.
Katerina Liberi, GRE
