‘It's our responsibility'

With the challenge of climate change, what part are equestrian professionals playing to be more sustainable in their roles?

- Stephanie Bateman

REDUCING the impact we have on our planet is a major global focus. While big equestrian brands and companies are playing their part to be more sustainable, what about individuals and smaller set-ups working in the industry?

Zoe Kiffset up Honest Riders Clothing in 2017 when looking for more sustainable riding kit for herself and care products for her horses.

“I realised that the options in the equestrian market were really limited, so decided to set up a brand whose sole focus was on providing more eco-friendly options,” says Zoe. “We consider our environmental impact at every step of the product journey.”

Every product Zoe sells has to be made using the most sustainable fabric they can source, either organic cotton or recycled polyester. It has to be made by a manufacturer whose workers are treated and paid fairly, and which considers the carbon output of its factory, and uses material shipped to it plastic-free. And the clothing must be of high quality, so that customers get years of wear out of it.

With regards to the horsecare products, Zoe ensures they are cruelty-free, as natural as possible to avoid toxins ending up in waterways, free from sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), parabens, petroleum and paraffin, and wrapped in recyclable packaging.

“Last year we launched a horse shampoo bar which is made from natural ingredients and comes in compostable packaging,” says Zoe. “It’s no longer enough for a brand to label itself or its products ‘sustainable’ if they haven’t considered every element. We believe that the equestrian market is behind the times when it comes to considering its environmental impact. Climate change is such a huge issue that we believe it’s our responsibility as customers and as brands to act now.”