A stud owner who is channelling his engineering background and “hate” of waste into saving money and sustainability has highlighted how greener practices can make good business sense.
Peter Hockenhull, of Shade Oak Stud in Shropshire, features on a new video produced by the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) that outlines the benefits of greener practices on stud farms.
Although each equestrian’s set-up is different, there are principles that can apply to any kind of yard. For example, examining use of resources, considering land management practices, scrutinising energy usage and thinking about incremental changes.
“I don’t see a conflict between looking after horses and being sustainable,” said Mr Hockenhull, who studied engineering at university and now runs the 200-acre stud with his wife, Emma.
“I hate waste of any kind – waste of manpower, waste of materials; any kind of waste drives me to be more efficient and better.”
In terms of the land, he …