Van Hall Larenstein University of applied sciences

Sustainable Equestrianism

The applied research group Sustainable Equestrianism helps to improve our understanding of the transition to a sustainable and future-proof equine sector.

Open days

  • Online Open Day

    4 June

Sustainable Equestrianism

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Open days

The applied research group Sustainable Equestrianism helps to improve our understanding of the transition to a sustainable and future-proof equine sector.

Harmonious, sustainable interaction between animals, humans, and nature

The applied research group aims to gain insight into the transition towards a future-proof equine sector, focusing on the horse, human, nature, and environment. We examine the various aspects of behavioural change: knowledge and skills, motivation, attitudes, thought patterns, physical conditions, and social context. Three pillars encompass sustainable interaction with horses. We emphasise the centuries-old bond between humans and horses and what the sector can contribute to the national transition towards a green, sustainable living environment.

Why this applied research group?

Why this applied research group?

  • The equine sector can be a leading example of harmonious, sustainable interaction between animals, humans, and nature.
  • The equine sector has a substantial amount of extensively managed land, with great potential for increasing biodiversity and green-blue infrastructure.
  • Sustainability and biodiversity are crucial themes for current and future generations, including within the equine sector.
  • Historically, the horse has played a crucial role in the development of civilizations. Horse riding promotes harmony and sustainability.
  • The applied research group integrates research with education at VHL. Students conduct practice-oriented research relevant to their studies.
  • The applied research group maintains Living Labs with practical partners, both nationally and internationally, and collaborates with organisations and companies on innovative solutions.
Mission & vision

Mission & vision

Our vision is to lead the equine sector in harmonious interaction between animals, humans, and nature. The applied research group Sustainable Horse Husbandry and Equestrian Sports bridges the gap between science and practice. We develop practical knowledge through scientific research, in collaboration with national and international partners from various sectors, and then work on appropriate implementation pathways to ensure that existing and future knowledge is effectively utilised.

Research lines

Research lines

  1. Green treasures: Investigating the biodiversity potential of equine yards through the presence and quality of landscape features in the Netherlands.
  2. Are Current Efforts to Prevent Grooms from Leaving the Industry Effective?
    An Analysis Based on Principles of Behavior Change. International Journal of Equine Science, 3(1), 21–29.
Projects

Projects

Deployment of eyetracking in equestrian sports

Eyetracking provides an in-depth understanding of horse-rider interactions in equestrian sports, both for performance assessment and horse welfare. It reveals the focus of judges, informs judge training, and improves assessment transparency. This project, in collaboration with Tobii and associate professor Dr. Peter Reuter, aims to investigate the relationship between live visual attention patterns, assigned dressage scores, verbal comments made by a dressage judge, and the kinematic movement data of horse and rider obtained during competitions. verkregen tijdens wedstrijden.

The Equine Welfare Certificate

The Equine Welfare Certificate (PWB) developed by the applied research group in collaboration with the Foundation for Riding Competence for Riders and Drivers (SRR) is designed to impart basic skills and knowledge about horse handling to equine enthusiasts, with a focus on welfare. The initiative aims to encourage the practical application of this knowledge. The PWB provides an opportunity for equine enthusiasts to demonstrate their basic knowledge.

Publications

Publications

Stip op de Horizon: Paard, Mens en Natuur in Verbinding (2023)

More about the applied research group Sustainable Horse Husbandry and the focus on developing transition pathways towards a sustainable equine sector is described in the inaugural lecture. Topics such as biodiversity, nature inclusion, and climate adaptation on equine farms are explored. Read the full inaugural lecture.

All publications of the applied research group can be found on Greeni, the online library for green higher education.

Knowledge network

Knowledge network

A fresh perspective, new ideas, but also a critical note; all essential to continue developing and timely respond to recent developments.

The knowledge network includes researcher-lecturers from various programmes and other applied research groups and researchers with an affinity and interest in the equine sector. The members of the knowledge network are employed by VHL or by other research or educational institutions within or outside the Netherlands. They are often, but not necessarily, directly involved in the research activities of the applied research group, thereby directly contributing to its direction and substantive focus.

Lijst met kennispartners

Academic partners

  • Universiteit Utrecht, Wageningen University and Research, Edinburgh University, SLU Sweden, University of Kentucky, Nürtingen University of Applied Sciences, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Aeres University of Applied Sciences, HAS Green Academy, Lentiz MBO, Yuverta MBO, Aeres MBO, Zone.College

SMEs

  • EquInnolab, Paardenarts.nl, Human & Horse Academy, LTO, Equestrum

Social organisations

  • Sectorraad Paarden, KNHS, FNRS, Federation for Disabled Riding, Environmental and Nature Federation, Stichting Part-Ner

Public and government institutions

  • Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV), Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (EZ), Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS), Province of Gelderland, Province of South Holland, Province of Brabant, Province of Overijssel, Municipalities
Want to know more?

Want to know more?

Interested in these themes? Get in touch.

Contactinfo

Inga Wolffram
Professor Sustainable Horse Husbandry and Equestrian Sports

E-mail: inga.wolframm@hvhl.nl