On September 22nd, 2024 we challenge you to be Plastic Free!
World’s 1st Fully Plastic Free 5k
#SustainableStrides
#DeclarePlasticIndependence
Inspire Natural Vitality.
Run Naturally.
Our Why:
To expose the proliferation of plastic in society and to inspire innovative solutions for a future free from plastic and full of collective vitality.
September 22nd, 2024
325 N. Manchester St. Bluemont Park South Pavilion, Arlington, VA 22203
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Distance: 5 km
Price:
$44 starting August 1st.
Last Call Registration:
$49 after September 1st, including race day registration, if spots remain.
Virtual Runner:
$33, includes a race packet.
Setting a new standard for all athletic events: rooted in environmental intelligence, environmental presence, and environmental vitality.
-
Recent studies have found that microplastics are now present in human blood, with research showing that they can cross into our bloodstream and accumulate in our organs.
-
Research shows that chemical leachate from landfills can contain harmful substances like heavy metals and plasticizers from disposed footwear .
-
Approximately 91% of plastic waste is never recycled, meaning that nearly all of the plastic ever produced still exists in some form today.
-
Traditional shoes can take up to 1,000 years to decompose, adding to long-term environmental pollution .
For every runner:
Each runner contributes $3 to help end plastic pollution through Break Free From Plastic.
1% of all proceeds:
We're donating 1% of all proceeds from the run to 1% for the Planet.
We think seven generations forward.
Green Chemistry and Zero Waste Principles
“Whenever any Form of Dependency becomes destructive to these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new sustainable practices, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its causes in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect the inter generational health and wealth of their environment and of nature around them.”
FAQs
-
This race is held on a fairly narrow public trail. This trail also remains open to the public for use by walkers, runners and cyclists. We discourage racing with a stroller or a dog (or both!) in this setting; if you insist, please start at the back of the pack, maintain a short leash, and yield at all times to others on the course.
-
The use of headphones is strongly discouraged. Presence is encouraged:)
-
Yes, you can wear your current shoes. Completely plastic-free athletic shoes are difficult to find, though we encourage you to explore options with reduced plastic content. This event is about raising awareness and encouraging steps towards reducing plastic usage, not perfection from the start. Check out our plastic free shoe options.
-
Yes we are committed to a 100% plastic-free event.
-
You can volunteer for race day activities, participate in pre-race clean-up events, donate to our charity partner, or advocate for plastic reduction in your community. Every action helps build a plastic-free movement.
-
Yes, photographs and videos will be taken during the event. We aim to use equipment and accessories that are as sustainable as possible, demonstrating that every aspect of our lives can contribute to environmental stewardship.
-
Organic Cotton: Lightweight, breathable, and perfect for workouts.
Hemp: Durable and naturally antibacterial, great for high-intensity activities.
Linen: Breathable and moisture-wicking, ideal for hot climates.
Merino Wool: Temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking, suitable for both cold and warm weather.
Tencel (Lyocell): Soft, breathable, and eco-friendly, great for sensitive skin.
Bamboo: Naturally moisture-wicking and antibacterial, perfect for activewear.
Modal: Soft, breathable, and made from beech tree pulp, good for yoga and low-impact activities.
Silk: Lightweight and breathable, suitable for low-intensity exercises.
Recycled Cotton: Eco-friendly and durable, suitable for various workouts.
Natural Rubber: Used for footwear, providing good grip and flexibility.
-
We encourage you to bring snacks in reusable containers and drinks in reusable water bottles. Please avoid single-use plastic packaging.
-
We will provide clearly marked disposal stations for compost, recycling, and trash. We encourage participants to minimize waste and use the correct disposal methods to help us keep the event as green as possible.
-
We aim to minimize plastic in our restroom facilities by using paper products and providing bulk soap dispensers rather than single-use plastics.
-
Food and beverages available for purchase will be served in compostable or reusable containers to align with our plastic-free goals. We encourage participants to support our efforts by bringing their reusable utensils and containers.
What is the connection between our health and plastics?
Have you noticed just how prevalent and embroiled plastics are in your every day life? And are they really that poisonous?
-
BPA and phthalates are known endocrine disruptors. This means they can mimic or interfere with the body's hormones, specifically the endocrine system responsible for regulating growth, metabolism, and reproductive development. Exposure can lead to developmental, reproductive, and neurological disorders.
-
Similar to how plastic waste accumulates in the environment, heavy metals tend to accumulate in the body over time, leading to chronic health issues. Microplastics can increase the rate of bioaccumulation as they provide a direct pathway for these metals into the body’s systems.
-
Inhalation of microplastics can lead to respiratory problems. These particles can irritate the airways or trigger allergic reactions. Long-term exposure might contribute to more severe respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or fibrosis.
Education.
Independent Thinking.
Collective Vitality.
Feel the Passion.
Support the cause.
Meet the Team
-
Tommy Chambers
FOUNDER | VIRESCENT
-
Anya Somsikova
CHIEF VISION INTEGRITY