Swiss City Marathon Lucerne takes 2018 Green Award

The award recognises excellence in environmental practice with candidates judged on the impact the race has had on promoting environmentally friendly practices in marathon events, how volunteers contribute to the success of the project and the ability for the race to educate younger generations about the benefits of sport and environmental protection. The two other shortlisted races were the Marine Corps Marathon (USA) and the Silesia Marathon (Poland).

The SwissCityMarathon-Lucerne aims to organise a sustainable event based on social, economic and environmental considerations. The race supports charity projects through UNICEF and thanks to the cooperation with the Max Havelaar Foundation products bearing the Fairtrade label are used. Local suppliers and companies are used whenever possible and the local running community is maintained year-round.

A comprehensive environmental policy and plan are in place and a dedicated person is responsible to ensure that environmental measures are incorporated throughout the race. Emissions such as waste, noise, water and air pollution are minimised. 75% of the CO₂ emissions caused during the SwissCityMarathon originate from the travel of the participants. Thanks to the SwissRunners ticket, traveling from all over Switzerland to the event and back is free for participants.

The fire hydrants in town are supplied with clean drinking water and these are used for the hydration points serving the runners.. The SwissCityMarathon-Lucerne offer participants the chance to donate towards CO₂ compensation upon registering for the race, supporting the Swiss project of forest management operated by the company “Oberallmeindkorporation”.

Reto Schorno, CEO of the SwissCity Marathon said “We are very proud of our environmental initiatives. Our thanks go to AIMS and its members for presenting us with this award.”