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I already wrote about the green ethics of training for a marathon. Things like choosing a marathon closer to home, sporting green gear, like eco-friendly sports bras, and running your errands while you're training so you can save a little gas. But there is actually more to running a greener [marathon than just the training and planning.
Try to choose a marathon that supports the green values that you hold so dear. Races can produce a whole lot of waste, just try and count all the water cups and carbohydrate gel packaging that goes from the pavement straight to the landfill. If there's a race in your area (especially a smaller community race) let the organizers know the importance of using biodegradable water cups and skipping Styrofoam at all costs. Also, check the recycling policy of the race to ensure that race organizers don't throw away all the trash produced by the runners and their supporters.
Eco-conscious Marathon Races:
- Great Lakes Endurance Events
In November 2008, Runner's World recognized the Great Lakes Endurance as one of the Top Ten Environmental Events in North America. Of the ten recognized, three were Canadian events. The Great Lakes Endurance Trail Series was the only event selected from the Midwest.
Some of the organization's green attributes include financial support for land conservation, environmental education, and sustainable sport trail construction and maintenance. The organizers have also limited the production of solid wastes by employing reusable materials, composting, recycling, and other creative methods of waste management. In addition, the events serve only locally grown or organic foods and provide runners with race shirts sewn from sustainable fibers. - The Austin Marathon
This race is part of the Greenteam, a group of races that are making environmentally-friendly changes.
Some of the steps race organizers are taking include running everything possible on solar or biodiesel power, encouraging carpools among race participants, using environmentally-friendly chemicals rather than formaldehyde in the port-o-potties, recycling wherever possible, and offering a finish-line farmers' market that features organic, locally-grown foods. - ING Hartford Marathon
The ING Hartford Marathon was the first to use a 70 ft. water fountain at the marathon finish in an effort to reduce the amount of plastic bottles and paper cups used at the end of the race. The fountain was a great success for the athletes and race directors.
More on Marathons:
Masai Warriors Run London Marathon
Canadian Duo Runs Marathon Daily for One Year to Raise Eco-Consciousness Among Students
Runner Trains for Marathon by Running Errands
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