You Have the Power

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It’s a scary world out there, and I’m not talking about handguns. The world’s ice caps and glaciers are melting faster than predicted. The level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is above the “safe” level and rising. Some leading scientists are warning that we are getting dangerously close to a climate “tipping point” where no matter what we do to curb global warming there’ll be no reversing the rise in temperatures for a century or so. 

As athletes we are tuned into our environments. Pollutants in the air mean it’s unsafe to run or bike. Pollutants in the water mean no swimming. Exercising becomes a health hazard instead of health benefit. Who knows what climate change will mean for the air and water in a decade or two?

Even if you’re a skeptic about mankind’s role in global warming, there are many things you can do to help mitigate the risks. It’s kind of like believing in heaven. Even if it turns out not to be there, it’s worth being good just in case.

You can ride your bike or walk to the store, carpool or take public transport to the office, use compact florescent light bulbs (but make sure you recycle them), turn down the thermostat, etc. If you’re an eco-zealot, then downsize your car and your home, and offset your greenhouse gas emissions.

As athletes we all can do more. We can support companies and events that are doing good things for the environment as well as good things for our sport of choice. You might have to look a little harder, but they are out there. Where to start? On the company or event website, of course. Search for phrases like “corporate social responsibility,” “sustainability,” “green,” and “carbon neutral.”

Your influence with event and race organizers can be significant. If your favorite races have nothing on the website about going green then email the race directors and ask, “Why not?” Do they plan to introduce recycling? Will they reduce or offset their carbon emissions? How about providing eco-friendly race shirts made from bamboo, soy or recycled polyester? And what about their sponsors’ and vendors’ environmental practices? If they don’t have answers, then look elsewhere.

To misquote Arlo Guthrie, if hundreds of people send emails, it’s a movement. Race organizers will pay attention—and so will their sponsors. So get busy and start emailing. There’s a lot at stake.

Bruce Rayner is a triathlete, runner, and Chief Green Officer of Athletes for a Fit Planet. Email him at bruce@afitplanet.com. Check out Afitplanet.com for information and resources on greening the planet one race at a time. 

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