Sustainability has become one of the defining priorities for the global running community. As participation in mass running events continues to grow, so does awareness of their environmental impact. From single-use plastics to travel emissions and waste management, organisers are increasingly being held accountable for how events affect the planet. In response, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for eco-friendly running events.
Major races, including established fixtures like the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, are adopting greener practices that reflect wider environmental goals while still delivering high-quality race experiences. This shift is being driven by runners, sponsors, local authorities, and governing bodies who recognise that sport has a responsibility to lead by example.
This article explores how running event organisers are going green in 2026, highlighting the key sustainability initiatives reshaping the industry and what they mean for runners.
1. Reducing Single-Use Plastics at Events
One of the most visible sustainability changes in running events is the reduction of single-use plastics. Traditional races have long relied on plastic water bottles, cups, and packaging, much of which ends up as landfill or litter. Events such as Run Bournemouth, which take place in environmentally sensitive coastal locations, have been early adopters of plastic reduction strategies.
In 2026, many organisers are replacing plastic cups with compostable alternatives or encouraging runners to carry reusable cups and hydration packs. Water stations are being redesigned to minimise waste, with refill stations and large water dispensers replacing thousands of individual bottles.
This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also lowers cleanup costs and improves the visual footprint of race routes.
2. Sustainable Race Packs and Merchandise
Race packs have traditionally included items such as plastic bags, leaflets, and promotional giveaways that often go unused. In 2026, organisers are rethinking what runners truly need. Night events like Supernova Kelpies have embraced minimal race packs that focus on essentials while reducing waste.
Many events now offer digital race information instead of printed materials, and physical packs are often optional rather than mandatory. T-shirts and medals are being produced using recycled or responsibly sourced materials, with some races offering opt-out options for runners who already have plenty of kit.
This shift reflects a growing recognition that sustainability also means avoiding unnecessary production altogether.
3. Greener Event Infrastructure and Energy Use
Powering large-scale running events requires significant energy, particularly for lighting, sound systems, timing equipment, and event villages. For visually striking races such as Supernova Forth Road Bridge, organisers are increasingly investing in renewable energy solutions to reduce reliance on diesel generators.
In 2026, many events are using hybrid or fully electric power systems, solar-powered lighting, and energy-efficient equipment. Where generators are still required, organisers are sourcing biofuels or offsetting emissions through verified environmental programmes.
These infrastructure changes significantly reduce carbon footprints while demonstrating that high-quality event delivery and sustainability can coexist.
4. Encouraging Sustainable Travel for Runners
Transport is one of the largest contributors to the carbon footprint of any running event. Thousands of participants travelling by car or plane can quickly outweigh other sustainability efforts. Events like the Men’s 10K, often held in city centres, are well positioned to promote greener travel options.
In 2026, organisers are actively encouraging runners to use public transport, cycle, or walk to race venues. Many races now partner with local transport providers to offer free or discounted travel on race day, while others provide secure bike storage or incentives for car-sharing.
Clear communication around travel planning helps runners make environmentally responsible choices without sacrificing convenience.
5. Responsible Waste Management and Recycling
Waste management has become a major focus area for eco-friendly events. From food packaging to discarded clothing and signage, race-day waste can be substantial if not properly managed. Events such as the Women’s 10K are implementing comprehensive waste-sorting systems to improve recycling rates and reduce landfill contributions.
In 2026, organisers are working closely with waste management partners to ensure clear labelling of bins, volunteer training, and post-event waste audits. Leftover food is increasingly donated to local charities, while discarded clothing is collected for reuse or recycling.
These measures not only reduce environmental impact but also build stronger relationships with local communities.
6. Sustainable Course Design and Environmental Protection
Running routes often pass through parks, coastal paths, bridges, and urban green spaces. Protecting these environments is a priority for organisers planning events like the Kilomathon, which may involve longer routes and multiple locations.
Eco-conscious course design in 2026 includes avoiding sensitive habitats, limiting off-trail running, and using temporary, removable signage to prevent long-term damage. Post-event restoration plans ensure that areas are returned to their original condition as quickly as possible.
Working closely with local councils and environmental groups helps organisers balance participant experience with environmental responsibility.
7. Ethical Partnerships and Sponsorships
Sustainability extends beyond race day operations to the brands and partners associated with events. Increasingly, runners expect organisers to align with companies that share their environmental values. Events such as the Scottish 10K are placing greater emphasis on ethical sponsorship in 2026.
This includes working with brands that prioritise sustainable materials, fair labour practices, and transparent supply chains. Organisers are also moving away from high-waste promotional activations in favour of meaningful engagement and education.
Ethical partnerships reinforce credibility and help embed sustainability into every aspect of an event.
8. Carbon Measurement and Offset Programmes
Measuring environmental impact is a crucial step in reducing it. In 2026, more running events are calculating their carbon footprint to identify key areas for improvement. Races like the Scottish Half Marathon are adopting carbon reporting frameworks to track emissions related to travel, energy use, and materials.
While reduction remains the priority, many organisers are also investing in carbon offset programmes to balance unavoidable emissions. These initiatives often support reforestation, renewable energy, or community-based environmental projects.
Transparent reporting helps build trust and demonstrates genuine commitment rather than superficial “greenwashing.”
9. Educating and Engaging Runners
Sustainable events rely not only on organisers but also on participant behaviour. Education and engagement are therefore central to eco-friendly event strategies. Large-scale races such as the Edinburgh Marathon Festival are using digital platforms to communicate sustainability goals and encourage runner participation.
Pre-race emails, apps, and social media campaigns highlight simple actions runners can take, such as bringing reusable bottles, using public transport, and disposing of waste correctly. On race day, volunteers play a key role in guiding sustainable behaviour.
Empowered runners become advocates, helping sustainability efforts extend beyond the event itself.
10. Long-Term Sustainability Planning Beyond 2026
Perhaps the most important trend in eco-friendly running events is the shift toward long-term planning. Sustainability is no longer treated as a one-off initiative but as an ongoing process. Events like Run Bournemouth and the Scottish 10K are developing multi-year sustainability strategies that evolve over time.
These plans include clear targets, regular reviews, and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure continuous improvement. By embedding sustainability into governance and decision-making, organisers ensure that environmental responsibility remains a core priority well beyond 2026.
This long-term approach reflects the maturity of the running events industry and its commitment to positive change.
Conclusion: A Greener Future for Running Events
Eco-friendly running events are no longer a niche concept—they are becoming the standard. In 2026, organisers are demonstrating that it is possible to deliver world-class race experiences while significantly reducing environmental impact.
From plastic reduction and sustainable travel to ethical partnerships and carbon reporting, events such as the Men’s 10K, Women’s 10K, Kilomathon, Scottish Half Marathon, and Edinburgh Marathon Festival are helping lead the way.
For runners, these changes offer the opportunity to participate in events that align with their values. For organisers, they represent a chance to protect the environments that make running events so special. Together, the running community is proving that performance and sustainability can move forward side by side.