Ascot Racecourse is now the world's first racecourse to be awarded ECOsmart accreditation!

This industry award, from Greengage, recognises organisations with a strong approach to environmental responsibility.

Following a thorough review based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council's guidelines, Ascot earned a Silver accreditation. They have been working hard to reduce their environmental impact, signing the UN's Sports for Climate Action Framework in 2022 and aiming for net-zero emissions by 2040. Their "Racing to Zero" strategy includes using 100% renewable gas, solar power, a zero-waste landfill policy, and sourcing from local, ethical suppliers.

Biodiversity is also a focus at Ascot. They have beehives, wildflower meadows, and encourage nesting for wildlife. They have seen a big win with a new building management system that cut lighting energy use by 70%! Plus, they are adding a second enclosure with lower emissions and new electric car charging stations.

Jonathan Parker, managing director of 1711 by Ascot, said: “Receiving further credible recognition of our commitment to sustainable events is a great endorsement of the hard work of our teams to make such strides in the past few years.

“We’re very proud to be the first racecourse to be recognised in this way, given the scale of work and dedication it takes for a venue of this size and stature to reduce its environmental impact so significantly.”

Andrew Perolls, CEO of Greengage, added: “Ascot Racecourse has demonstrated a comprehensive approach to sustainability across its entire operations. This ECOsmart award is very well-deserved, and we’re particularly pleased to have such a prestigious new partner as the first racecourse over the line.”

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Source: The Business Magazine