Background
Mass participation athletic events (marathons, triathlons, bike races, etc) often do not consider environmental impact when making event planning decisions. Generated waste may be substantial, materials are often used once and discarded, and the
distances traveled by participants are increasing. At the same time, the number of participants is increasing, harmful practices are becoming common, and the items employed to stage events are becoming standardized in favor of profit margin.
With growing awareness of environmental responsibility in mainstream habits and mass media, these events provide the opportunity for a deliberate, high-profile realignment toward a planning model that takes into consideration environmental and social impact. Responsible event production can build value for the event, its participants, and its host community.