What are some things we do to keep the Run for Clean Air sustainable?

                                          
• Power the event with solar energy!                                         • No single-use water bottles!

• Recyclable Run bibs printed with soy-based inks!
                                         
• Paperless on-site Run registration!                                  • Offer a free bike valet for participants!

The 2020 Run for Clean Air has pledged to be a green run through Athletes for a Fit Planet. In order to obtain certification and achieve the Pledge of Sustainability, the Council has to pledge to perform all of the required practices, and a minimum of four of the elective practices.

REQUIRED PRACTICES

• Reduce paper waste by requiring at least 80% of total pre-registered race field to register online – only option for paper registration is at the event.
• No mailing of paper registration forms. (Takes effect within 24 hours of signing the Pledge)
• Provide recycling bins at the event and recycle cardboard, paper, plastic and other materials
• Provide information to athletes about public transportation options and/or provide them with ride-share options on your website.

ELECTIVE PRACTICES

• Offer a clothing and/or shoe recycling/reuse program (old running shoes and apparel can be recycled and/or contributed to charity organizations)
• All paper used to promote the event is at least 20% post-consumer recycled stock.
• Provide race bags (AKA swag or goodie bags) that are recyclable and/or reusable.
• No single-use disposable plastic bottles for water or sports drink distributed at the finish line.
• Provide green portable toilets that use non-toxic deodorizer and recycled toilet paper and paper towels.
• At least 80% of all marketing and participant communications facilitated through email or website updates instead of paper mail.
• Reuse at least 80% of all signage for the event.
• For new signage, purchase recyclable or biodegradable materials for signs and banners. (We recommend you use non-toxic inks.)
• At least 25% of all power used during the event is supplied from renewable sources such as solar, wind or bio-fuels either directly or indirectly through renewable energy credits or carbon offsets.
• Utilize bicycles, electric scooters, electric motorcycles, or electric/hybrid cars for pace and lead vehicles.
• Provide environmental education as part of expo and/or race-day presentations (e.g. speakers, booth space for environmental organizations, and green product and service companies)
• Source sustainable finisher medals such as recycled/recyclable lanyards and metal and/or locally made medals from recycled materials.
• Provide composting for pre- and post-event meals. (using biodegradable/compostable tableware as well, such as plates, cups, knives and forks made from PLA.)
• Donate unused food to a charity such as a homeless shelter or soup kitchen.
• Offset at least 10% of the greenhouse gas emissions from the race through sponsorships, a percent of the race fee, voluntary contributions from athletes, or other means.
• Encourage athletes to support an environmental initiative important to the Event by either volunteering time or donating money. This could be a local environmental project or cause or a national or international environmental charity.
• Serve at least some locally grown, fresh food at pre- and/or post-race meals.