Greening the Marathon with Go Green Gals

Freedom's Run not only embraces the health and heritage through offering participants a top-notch athletic and historic experience; this event embraces the health and heritage of our planet as well. 'Green' is a theme that has walked (and run) hand in hand with Freedom's Run organizers, participants, and supporters from its inception in 2009. We expanded our green efforts for our 2010 race and continue to explore simple and innovative ways to continue our sustainability practices and promote environmental responsibility for this event.

In an effort to limit the ecological impact of Freedom's Run, we have implemented the following practices:

• online registration
• on-site electronic registration
• electronic newsletters/communication
• paper recycling at on-site registration
• reusable bags at packet pick-up
• reusable BPA free water bottles
• reusable post race souvenir pint glass
• bulk water distribution for reusable bottles
• organic and/or recycled textile used for manufacture of race t-shirts
• collection bins for shoe recycling (472 pairs of shoes for 2010)
• participant are provided with detailed shuttle information thus reducing carbon footprint
• cardboard recycling
• hybrid pace car
• bicycling deliveries of coffee from local roastery
• bicycling sweeps
• reuse of equipment year to year
• recycling of plastic
• food compost (approx. 320 lbs of compostable material for 2010)
• recycling bins and compost bins provided at aid stations
• unused food/supplies donated or used for another event
• locally-sourced apples
• locally made medals for race participants
• environmental education included in post-race events
• involvement of local, community and environmental groups
• partnership with The National Park Service and other stewards of the land

Working together with volunteers, communities, local governments, businesses and schools, and each and every participant; Freedom's Run has embraced the Green movement though our commitment to the environment and the natural resources that make this such a wondrous event.

Thanks to Karen Valentine and the team at Go Green Gals and The Source gogreengals.com
Visit The Source
108 South Princess St.
Shepherdstown WV
304-876-1380