If you’re a runner, you’re probably always looking for ways to improve your running form, increase your speed, and become a more efficient runner. But what about becoming a more sustainable runner? As a runner, you have a lot of impact on the environment. Every time you lace up your shoes and hit the pavement, you’re emitting greenhouse gases and contributing to pollution. But there are ways to be a more sustainable runner and help the environment at the same time. Here are a few tips:
1. Invest in eco-friendly running gear.
When buying running shoes, you should consider the materials used to make them. You can either make your own or purchase one that’s already made from sustainable materials. Some sustainable brands, such as Reformation, are also available, and some of their models have even gone so far as to offer half sizes. These shoes are made from materials such as chrome-free suede and eucalyptus tree fibers. They are also made of post-consumer recycled polyester and have a sole made from bloom algae.
The materials used to make a running shoe can be made from recycled materials, organic cotton, or plant-based materials. Vegan shoes are typically made from TENCEL lyocell, recycled bottles, and algae-based materials. You can also look for sustainability certifications. These labels should help you identify companies that are committed to environmental and social responsibility. By purchasing shoes made by sustainable companies, you can reduce your impact on the environment while supporting the local community and the economy.
2. Make your own energy gel.
Commercial energy gels are a great example of packaging waste as they are often packaged in single-use plastic packets, which are bad for the environment.
But what if there was a way to make your own energy gel that was eco friendly and sustainable?
Well, there is!
You can make your own energy gel using ingredients like honey, chia seeds, and fruit. And it’s actually really easy to do.
Here’s a quick and easy recipe for homemade energy gel:
Ingredients:
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/2 cup fruit puree (you can use any fruit you like)
Directions:
1. Combine the honey and chia seeds in a bowl and mix well.
2. Add the fruit puree and mix well again.
3. Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate for at least an hour.
4. Once the gel has set, you can either eat it straight from the container or put it into a reusable gel flask.
5. Enjoy!
Making your own energy gel is a great step towards a sustainable running. Not only are you reducing the amount of packaging waste, but you’re also using ingredients that are eco-friendly and sustainable.
3. Reduce your carbon footprint.
Reduce your carbon footprint by carpooling or running to your destination instead of driving.
When you carpool, you are reducing the number of vehicles on the road, which reduces emissions and traffic congestion. Plus, it’s a great way to save money on gas.
Running to your destination is another great way to reduce your impact. Not only does it save on gas, but it’s also a great way to get some exercise. And, if you run with a friend or family member, you can save even more on gas by carpooling.
So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider carpooling or running to your destination. It’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and be a more sustainable runner.
4. Don’t use disposable water bottles.
As a runner, you know how important it is to stay hydrated. But, have you ever stopped to think about the environmental impact of your hydration habits? If you’re using disposable water bottles, the answer is probably not.
Disposable water bottles are one of the biggest sources of plastic pollution. In fact, it’s estimated that over 500 billion plastic water bottles are produced each year. And, of those, less than half are recycled. The rest end up in landfills, or even worse, in our oceans.
So, what can you do to be a more sustainable runner? Ditch the disposable bottles and switch to a reusable option.
There are plenty of great eco-friendly water bottles on the market. And, many of them are specifically designed for runners. They’re often made from sustainable materials, like bamboo or stainless steel. And, they come in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that’s perfect for your needs.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few of our favorite eco-friendly water bottles for runners:
– The bamboo water bottle from S’well
– The stainless steel water bottle from Hydro Flask
– The glass water bottle from Lifefactory
Making the switch to a reusable water bottle is a great way to be a more sustainable runner. And, it’s a small change that can have a big impact.
5. Choose eco-friendly races.
When you’re looking for your next race, choose one that’s environmentally friendly.
Choose races that are committed to sustainability. There are many races that are now incorporating sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy and recycled materials, offsetting carbon emissions, and donating to green causes.
Here are some tips for finding eco-friendly races:
1. Look for races that use recycled materials.
2. Find races that offset their carbon emissions.
3. Choose races that support local businesses.
4. Look for races that have a green transportation plan.
5. Find races that donate to environmental causes.
When you choose eco-friendly races, you are voting with your feet for a better planet. You are also setting a good example for other runners. So lace up your shoes and hit the pavement for a sustainable future!
6. Organizing a trail clean-up.
Organizing a trail clean-up can be a fun and rewarding way to give back to your community while running and exploring. If you want to make the most of your participation, here are some tips to ensure the success of your clean-up event. Decide on the date, time, and location and send an email the night before inviting friends and family to join you. Make sure to wear gloves and nitrile gloves to protect your skin and eyes. Be sure to wear closed-toed shoes and wear long-sleeved shirts to avoid slicing your own skin.
Make sure you ask a few questions to find out if the trail you’re running through is a sensitive land, has invasive species, or is accessible to runners. Make sure to consider the trail’s accessibility, as well as the impact of your event on local communities. It can also help you get your race sponsors to be more eco-friendly and promote fair trade business practices.
7. Don’t litter.
When you see a piece of trash on the ground, do you pick it up? If you don’t, you’re not alone. In fact, most people don’t. But what if every time you went for a run, you made it a point to pick up at least one piece of litter? It may not seem like much, but if everyone did it, it would make a big difference. Not only would it help keep our environment clean, but it would also send a message that we’re committed to being eco-friendly runners.
Here are a few tips to help you become a sustainable runner:
1. Bring a bag with you. This way, you can easily pick up any litter you see along the way.
2. Don’t litter yourself. Be sure to dispose of any trash such as gel packets and wrappers properly.
3. Educate others. If you see someone littering, politely let them know that it’s not acceptable.
4. Set an example. Be the change you want to see in the world. If everyone does their part, we can make a difference.
Remember, every little bit helps. Let’s do our part to keep our planet clean!
8. When possible, run in nature instead of on a treadmill.
Treadmills are great for indoor running in the winter, but when the weather is nice, take advantage of running outside. Treadmills use a lot of energy and produce a lot of noise, so running outdoors is a more sustainable option. When running outdoors, you can also take advantage of natural features like hills and trails to make your run more interesting.
9. Support eco-friendly running brands and companies.
As a runner, you have a responsibility to take care of the environment. You can do this by supporting eco-friendly running brands and companies that are working to reduce their environmental impact.
By supporting eco-friendly companies, you are helping to create a more sustainable future for running. These companies are working hard to reduce their environmental impact, and they need our support to continue their work.
Some of the most eco-friendly running brands include Altra, Brooks, and Saucony. These brands are all working to reduce their environmental impact, and they are all great options for sustainable runners.
If you are looking for an eco-friendly running shoe, make sure to check out Altra’s latest offering, the Lone Peak 4.5. This shoe is made with recycled materials, and it is designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
Brooks is another great option for sustainable runners. The brand’s latest shoe, the Launch 5, is made with recycled materials and features a lower carbon footprint than its predecessor.
Saucony is also another great option. The brand’s latest shoe, the Triumph ISO 5, is made with recycled materials and features a reduced carbon footprint.
When you are looking for sustainable running gear, make sure to support eco-friendly brands and companies. These brands are working hard to reduce their environmental impact, and they need our support to continue their work.
10. Educate yourself and others about the importance of sustainability in running.
The first step to becoming a sustainable runner is to educate yourself and others about the importance of sustainability in running. There are a lot of ways to do this.
You can start by reading articles, watching videos, or listening to podcasts about sustainability in running. You can also join online forums and discussion groups about sustainability in running.
Another great way to educate yourself and others about sustainability in running is to attend events and workshops about sustainability in running. The more people who know about the importance of sustainability in running, the more likely we are to see positive change.
As a runner, you have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment. Every time you lace up your shoes and hit the pavement, you can make a difference. By following these tips, you can be a more sustainable runner, reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment at the same time.