Running is a sport that has been in the spotlight a lot this year . As an individual sport is something that can be easily done while socially distancing and during various lockdowns it has been a sport rediscovered by many people. Being a runner means many things - from short distance to ultra marathons, speedy runners , turtles. Young people, old people - everyone can be a runner . I already mentioned in my sports series that running is quite a sustainable sport since equipment is minimal and can be done right from and to our doorsteps - and also provided some suggestions as to how to make it even more sustainable . Today I would like to focus on runners as a big power able to drive change. We are a lot of people.
With the power of closing whole cities to traffic during events such as marathons. We are so many that in various special ‘covid decrees’ they have to specify whether running is allowed or not and where (at least where I am). We are so many and we are right there on the street under the eyes of everyone. I found it so interesting and inspiring when Tina muir from running for real podcast started interviewing hosts about deeper political issues and how she is taking a stance to educate and inform about climate change . While races are likely not going to happen for a while, we could demand that they would be more eco friendly, saying no to the plastic glass or the plastic sponge - I think that now is the time , since they are likely having to change a few of those things. From what I understand trail races are already ahead of road running races in terms of running with one’s own glass and leaving no trace. Let’s make road racing the same. And let’s make a statement of it. Let’s organise climate runs , and occupy cities with slogans rather than advertisements. How does a ‘climate marathon’ sound? And maybe one going on in multiple parts of the world at the same time ? I envision the streets of the whole world full of runners wearing green shirts (repurposing old ones would be even better). It could play the purpose of educating people and shaking politics (we are a lot of voters). And maybe raising money for some good cause , based on donations . An app that I recently discovered is called ‘charity miles’ and allows to transform your distance into donations to a charity of choice - the nature conservancy is there , and while I have not used it yet I think I will start .. And since we are a lot of people - let’s be an example to others. Always leave no traces, and always abide by social rules - and in these pandemic times, always be respectful! (and have fun)
3 Comments
11/13/2020 09:05:48 pm
Beyond plogging, I've never thought much about running and climate change! This is very interesting. Especially the traffic surge into cities as they host races - a crowd that size could certainly have a positive or negative impact. Very interesting.
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