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LA Marathon

Last week, we announced that Tracy and I will run the LA Marathon on March 21st and plan to train responsibly and report our findings. So, to kick off, we found out what the LA Marathon itself is doing to be sustainable.We connected with its Creative and Environmental Coordinator, Beth Liberty, to find out what it takes to make this year’s LA Marathon just a little greener.

“The LA Marathon took major strides in the last year toward greening its race,” Beth explains, “it’s a massive undertaking and we’re making progress from one year to the next.” With over 25,000 athletes participating, the LA Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the country to make this effort.

Here’s how Beth and the team are going greener:
LA Marathon is working with Resport, the Council for Responsible Sport and A Fit Planet to implement initiatives in Waste, Climate Change, Materials & Equipment, Community & Outreach, and Health Promotion.

The packaging and the shrink wrap for the water stations will be properly recycled and they will work with the water captains to fill cups to a reasonable level. Unfortunately, alternatives like corn starch cups present a safety hazard, as their slick surface might cause runners to fall during the race.

Also, rather than using the standard timing chips that attach to your shoes, this year, the marathon will be utilizing timing chips that are built into the athletes’ bibs. This will eliminate the needs for additional materials. No more bright orange tags on your shoes while you run!

Plus, PickUp Pal will provide carpool options for attendees who want to coordinate their rides. Last year, nearly one hundred people used the program; let’s raise the bar this year!

Lastly, the marathon is recruiting an Eco-Volunteer Team to help manage the waste produced at the event. Beth shared that being a part of the Eco-Volunteer Team is a great opportunity to educate both spectators and athletes. Wanna join? Visit: http://www.lamarathon.com/event/volunteer/

In 2009, the marathon took steps to green the day and this year it is making even bigger strides.  “The LA Marathon brings people together from so many different communities,” shares Liberty, “the race is a truly unique platform for environmental change– it’s too good of an opportunity to pass up!”

To Register for the Marathon visit: http://www.lamarathon.com/.

Or if you’re interested in lending a hand, visit: http://www.lamarathon.com/event/volunteer/

What do you do to train sustainably? We want to know.We Run Green. Do you?

Guest Post by Lauren Selman:  Lauren is the founder of Reel Green Media and Sustainable Sirens.  She spends her days training for the LA Marathon and greening the entertainment industry.

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“On Your Mark, Get Set, Go Green!” : LA Marathon

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