Sponsored Races

Essentially and explicitly, Eco-Runner is about running and trash cleanup. It is about carrying a biodegradable bag in your hands and picking up the trash, rubbish, and garbage found along the path that ensues. It is about carrying your own hydration system or water bottle instead of using the cups/aid stations provided. It is totally about personal responsibility, and so much more. I think this attitude can completely revolutionize the racing world. Additionally, Eco-Runner races can involve the following green race ideas, which we have implemented at various events:

Clean Up

Run with a biodegradable bag in hand and pick up whatever trash you see. Eco-Run just like you train, and be an ambassador of the Eco-Running movement! Set an example and teach others about your convictions along the way. People truly appreciate what you are doing; and hopefully, we will inspire future Eco-Runners to join our cause.

Set an example and teach others about your convictions along the way.

Registration

Encourage online registration – that saves thousands of printed registration forms from going unused.

Participant Goodies

Use reusable cloth shopping bags or recycled plastic bags for participant goodies. Avoid paper flyers and coupons. And, allow participants to choose whether or not they want a goodie bag.

Transportation

Minimize the races carbon footprint by using public transportation and/or purchasing carbon offsets.

Equipment

Solar-powered generators provide electricity near the start (and finish) areas.

Marking the Course

Mark all race courses with reusable wired flags. Avoid spray paint or other toxic markings. Mile markers and directional arrows can be constructed from trash, such as plywood or cardboard.

Earth-Friendly Eats

Serving organic sports bars and snacks from locally grown or organic foods producers.

Aiding the Earth

Ask runners to bring their own bottles or hydration systems, which they can refill along the course.

Wear Your Values

Provide runners with shirts made of either organic cotton or recycled plastic. In addition, provide shirts sewn in the U.S. They require less fuel to transport than shirts manufactured in Central America or Asia – decreasing the overall carbon footprint of your event. Since the synthetic fabrics in many tech tees are made with harmful chemicals, we promote companies making their clothing from organic cotton, recycled materials, cocona, and bamboo, among many others.

Recycling Races

Ask other race directors to donate their unused shirts, race bibs, and medals so all race proceeds can benefit a charity of your choice, or reuse them at the next event.

The goal is to leave only footprints at the race site. Several hours after the race you should barely be able to tell that an event occurred.