Together with our friends at WINQS, we have embarked on a mission to promote sustainability within the world of running at the Berlin Marathon Expo, which will take place from September 21 to 23. Our innovative approach resulted in the creation of a Sustainability Hub for runners, sending a powerful message about the importance of eco-responsibility in the world of sport.
The Berlin Marathon is one of the most prestigious and iconic long-distance races in the world. Every year, thousands of runners from all over the world gather in the German capital to take part in this event. However, the grandeur of organizing a marathon in a big city like Berlin comes with ecological challenges.
Indeed, organizing a marathon in a city like Berlin is no easy task. It involves meticulous planning, considerable resources and a huge logistical effort. The sheer scale of the event, which brings together tens of thousands of participants and spectators, results in a significant environmental impact. Traditionally, marathons are associated with high levels of waste production, energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Aware of this, we took the initiative to tackle these issues head on. We decided to come together to create a Sustainability Hub for runners within the Berlin Marathon exhibition. This Hub is a space where runners and enthusiasts can explore sustainable alternatives, discover environmentally friendly running practices to create a new active lifestyle while respecting nature and its resources.
Key initiatives of the Sustainability Hub
This hub features eco-friendly running gear, including shoes made from natural or recycled materials, sustainable sportswear, and accessories designed with sustainability in mind. Visitors can learn about the environmental benefits of these products and make informed choices.
The center also addresses the theme of sports nutrition which plays an essential role in a runner’s performance. It offers insight into sustainable food choices, promoting locally sourced, organic and plant-based options for athletes.
Above all, the pole promotes a feeling of community among runners who share a passion for sustainable development. Visitors can connect, share experiences and exchange ideas on how to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their running routines.
Runners are also encouraged to reduce their environmental impact in their daily lives and during their races. To guide them, Active Giving and WINQS have created an Eco-Conscious Runners’ Guide. This will be distributed free of charge to the first 1,000 visitors and can also be downloaded online here.
The Sustainability Hub within the Berlin Marathon exhibition, illustrates the power of innovation and collaboration in promoting sustainability in sport. Amid the ecological complexities of hosting a major urban marathon, these companies have taken a bold step toward a more sustainable future for the sport and the planet. Our efforts send a clear message that no challenge is too big when it comes to championing environmental awareness, and we want to inspire runners and organizers to join the journey towards a greener, more sustainable sporting world.
Practical information :
Tempelhof Airport / Platz der Luftbrücke 5, 12101 Berlin
Thursday September 21, 2023
3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Friday September 22, 2023
11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday September 23, 2023
9 a.m. – 7 p.m.