Sustainability
We continuously seek ways to lower our impacat on the environment through innovative and practical initiatives. Here are some of the key steps we are taking:
Re-Turn for Children Scheme
We’ve joined the scheme so that all refundable cans and plastic bottles collected on site are returned, with the €0.15 deposit per unit donated directly to charity.
Reduction of Single-Use Plastics
Working with our caterers to eliminate single-use plastics across the site. We now provide reusable cups, significantly reducing waste and environmental impact.
Digital-first approach
E-racecard available at every meeting to reduce printed materials. E-tickets now the primary ticketing method, cutting down on paper tickets
LED efficiency
We are gradually upgrading all buildings on site with energy-efficient LED lighting.
Sustainable transport
Shuttle buses are provided from the town/train station to the racecourse to help cut down on individual car journeys.
Seasonal catering
Our caterers prioritise seasonal menus to lower food miles and environmental impact.
Tree Planting
In 2025, we planted 7,500 trees in partnership with horticulture students from the Down Syndrome Ireland Kildare Branch, as part of the 100 Million Trees Project.
Native Hedgerows
We have established a half-mile-long beech hedge and we have 2 miles of ancient hedgerows within the track perimeter, enhancing natural habitats and supporting local biodiversity.
Pollinator Protection
Proud members of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan (AIPP), actively creating and maintaining spaces that support bees, butterflies, and other vital pollinators.
Wildflower & Grass Meadows
Since 2024, we’ve dedicated half an acre to a long-flowering grass meadow, left uncut from March to August. An additional quarter-acre is maintained until early autumn, providing extended habitats for pollinators and other wildlife.
Rainwater Collection
All the water used for irrigating the track is collected from rainfall and a natural spring pond. This system is entirely self-sufficient, ensuring we never rely on mains water, promoting water conservation and sustainable resource management.
Birch Woodland Management
We have 4-5 acres of birch forest at the far end of the track that is coppiced every few years and the birch is then used on our fences. This traditional management technique promotes healthy regrowth and allows for biodiversity to flourish in the interim years, supporting a rich variety of wildlife in the woodland.Â
Organic Fertilizer
After each race, we collect horse droppings from the carpark, which are free from contaminants like shavings. These droppings are composted and repurposed as organic fertilizer, reducing the need for synthetic alternatives and contributing to soil health on the track.
Weed Management
We avoid using chemical herbicides. Instead, we focus on maintaining a dense growth of grass to outcompete weeds. We have reduced chemical spraying around the track by 50% compared with five years ago, significantly lowering our environmental impact and supporting healthier soils, plants, and wildlife.Â
Community
At Naas Racecourse, we are proud to be at the heart of Kildare’s community. Our initiatives focus on accessibility, inclusivity, education, and supporting local causes:
Age-Friendly Racecourse – First in Ireland recognised for accessibility improvements in partnership with Age Friendly Ireland and Kildare County Council.
Neurodiverse Initiatives – Hosted our first Neurodiverse Day in 2025 with a sensory bus, ensuring children and families with additional needs feel welcome.
Independent Living Support – We partnered with McAuley Place for their expansion, adding 43 new housing units for older people in Naas.
Educational Visits – We welcome educational visits from primary schools, youth groups, industry bodies, and other educational organisations, giving them the opportunity to explore behind-the-scenes operations, inspiring young people about the racing industry.Â
Charity & Fundraising – We host several races annually dedicated to raising awareness for charities and run fundraising events for local schools, sports clubs, and community groups.
Supporting Sport Across Kildare – Sponsoring athletes, retired racehorse, clubs, and events to promote local talent and participation.
Community Access – Our inner course is available for Naas Parkrun and for the community to use for exercise and leisure.
Celebrating Local Culture – Gates open for community events like Taste of Kildare, showcasing local food, music, and family activities.
Non-Raceday Events – Supporting wider community engagement through events such as Darkness Into Light.
At Naas Racecourse, we are always open to ideas and suggestions from our racegoers, partners,
and neighbours on how we can continue to grow our impact for a greener, more inclusive future. Email us at goracing@naasracourse.com.
