Venue Case Study: Sŵn-y-môr
We are taking a look at the sustainability efforts of our venues, as they demonstrate best practise and are a perfect example to not only other venues but also inspiring private land owners and livery yards. Our first venue in the spotlight is Sŵn-y-môr!
Sŵn-y-môr is a British Dressage venue based in Caernarfon, Gwynedd, Wales. At Sŵn-y-môr, they believe that caring for our horses and caring for the environment go hand in hand. Sustainability isn't just a buzzword—it's something that is actively incorporated into everyday life around the yard through a series of simple, practical initiatives that we can all take inspiration from.
Sustainability efforts
Rosette swaps
One of their most popular schemes is a Rosette Swap. Rather than letting unwanted rosettes gather dust at home, riders can bring them back to the venue and exchange them for a complimentary tea or coffee. It's a small gesture that encourages reuse while giving competitors a chance to enjoy a well-earned drink after their test.
Ruducing single use plastic
They're also committed to reducing single-use plastics. Visitors are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle and fill up on-site, at labelled filling stations, helping to cut down on disposable plastic waste.
Ruducing food waste
The onsite café plays its part too. Used coffee grounds are collected and added to the garden compost, helping to enrich the soil naturally and giving a second life to what would otherwise be waste. Food waste is kept to a minimum wherever possible. Any suitable leftover bread is passed on to Gill's chickens, ensuring that waste is reduced while supporting some very happy hens.
Local produce
Wherever possible, they source products locally, reducing transport miles and supporting the local economy. This includes the delicious cakes available in the café and even practical items such as our paper plates and event supplies.
Recycling bins
Across the yard you'll find clearly marked recycling bins, making it easy for everyone to recycle responsibly during events and training days. They believe that creating good habits should be as convenient as possible.
How to make a difference
While no single initiative can solve every environmental challenge, at Sŵn-y-môr they believe that a collection of thoughtful choices can have a meaningful impact. Inspiring an environmental initiatives checklist to be included on the notice board.
We are always looking for new ways to improve and welcome ideas from visitors and fellow equestrians. Together, we can make our sport a little greener, one step at a time.
They also have exciting plans to further increase their sustainability effort including is a rainwater harvesting system. By using harvested rainwater to spray and condition our surfaces, to reduce water consumption and further lessen their environmental impact.
Share your story
If your yard has initiatives in place that have a postive effect on the evironment and help us as equestrians work towards a cleaner future, we would love to hear about them. Email us on greenteam@britishdressage.co.uk to share your story!