“Continuing our efforts to make a difference in the environment and community, we have signed on with other sports entities to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change,” said Rachael McKinney, Air Force Marathon events coordinator and Green Program lead.
Earlier this year, the marathon office made the decision to become more environmentally conscious, and some of those initiatives will be seen at the finish line Sept. 21.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change falls under the category of the United Nations Sports for Climate Action. By joining the movement, the Marathon office will commit to adhere to the five principles of the UN Climate Change: undertake systematic efforts to promote a greater responsibility; reduce overall climate impact; educate for climate action; promote sustainable and responsible consumption; and advocate for climate action through communication.
“Signing on is an affirmation of the Air Force Marathon to support the endeavors of the United Nations in doing our part to making a difference in our environment,” said McKinney.
One of the first noticeable actions to educate the community on the UN Climate Change initiative, in partnership with Greene County Recycling, an educational booth will be set up at the Marathon expo Sept. 19-20.
On race day, among other initiatives that will be seen this year include the elimination of trash bins. Instead of trash bins located throughout, trash stations will be set up where volunteers will assist sorting trash to reduce the amount sent to landfills. In addition, any left-over food will be donated and compostable waste will be turned into compost for use in improving local soil.
Also, heat sheets that are handed out to runners at the finish line will now be made of recycled material and after use will be collected and recycled into other products.
McKinney said that along with the Air Force Marathon, other sports organizations have signed on with the UN Climate Change initiative such as the Chicago, Flying Pig and Marine Corps marathons as well as the NBA and New York Yankees.
The 2019 Air Force Marathon is presented by Northrop Grumman, USAA and Boeing and is scheduled for Sept. 21. The Sports & Fitness expo is scheduled for Sept. 19-20. The Breakfast of Champions is scheduled Sept. 20 from 8 to 10 a.m. and the Gourmet Pasta Dinner for Sept. 20, starting at 5:30 p.m.
For more information about the Air Force Marathon go to www.usafmarathon.com.
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