Sustainability
Experience a sustainable Waregem Koerse!
At Waregem Koerse, we are committed to a sustainable future and, since 2022, we have already taken important steps towards greater sustainability.
We have carried out a Carbon Footprint analysis and implemented concrete initiatives in the areas of environmental care and social responsibility.
We continue to further develop our event and make it even more sustainable.
CO2 emissions:
We have carried out a Carbon Footprint analysis and continue to closely monitor and optimise our emissions.
Energy:
Our set-up and dismantling are carried out entirely using solar panels and batteries. Every year, we optimise all energy points
through detailed analyses of diesel generator usage, which has enabled us to reduce our diesel consumption by 35%.
Since 2022, we have also had permanent electricity cabinets in place, which we will continue to expand in the future.
Waste:
We work together with Ecofest to improve waste management. Waste is sorted and we work with specialised green teams.
Cardboard drink holders, plastic or PET bottles are not allowed, and fast food products are not sold in plastic packaging.
Signage is reused every year and floral decorations are donated to local care homes to minimise waste.
Water:
We use vacuum toilets for the general public in order to save tens of thousands of litres of water.
Transport:
We promote sustainable mobility through a partnership with NMBS/SNCB. Waregem Koerse ticket holders benefit from a 50% discount on public transport.
A shuttle service is provided between the station and the hippodrome. In addition, we use electric and hybrid shuttle vehicles as well as electric gators
to further reduce our CO2 emissions. Several bicycle parking areas around the hippodrome encourage visitors to come by bike.
Social responsibility:
We offer job seekers the opportunity to integrate into our organising team and gain positive work experience.
Afterwards, they receive a certificate that supports them in applying for jobs.
-
We organise the Heart for Brain Race, a race that raises awareness of brain disorders and highlights the importance of a healthy brain.
The prize money is donated to Heart for Brain or to an organisation with a similar mission. - In cooperation with the social welfare services of Waregem, we offer a reduced social rate so that everyone can enjoy Waregem Koerse.
- Residents of care homes and people with disabilities can experience the event in specially designated areas.
Safety & weather:
We have a comprehensive safety plan and work closely with the City of Waregem, the police and the fire brigade.
Our collaboration with Noodweer.be helps us to continuously monitor weather conditions.
At temperatures of 30°C or higher, we implement a heat plan.
Horse welfare:
At Waregem Koerse, horse welfare is a top priority. Mandatory veterinary checks are carried out by independent veterinarians from Ghent University.
In addition, strict race conditions apply: only horses that have won within the past year are allowed to participate.
Partners in sustainability, welfare and social impact
Waregem Koerse works together with various partners to strengthen sustainability, accessibility, mobility and animal welfare.
