Going the Distance for Green!

CAUSE Canada is committed to creating the greenest race in Canada! Some of the initiatives we have undertaken to put on an environmentally friendly race include:

• Recycling virtually everything, resulting in a waste-free Start/Finish zone.
• Exclusively using compostable cups sourced from renewable materials.
• 100% disposable water bottle free.
• Winners medals made from 100% recycled glass, Made in USA.
• Runner's swag made from recycled materials.
• Brewing BC roasted coffee.
• Operating support-bicycles along the race course, as opposed to typical carbon generating support-vehicles.
• Administering a paper-free registration process.
• Serving only BC fruit & locally made baked goods.
• Providing our volunteers with shirts made from 100% organic cotton, Made in Canada.
• Selling race merchandise made from 80% recycled cotton, 20% recycled polyester, Made in Canada.
• Printing all promotional posters and brochures on 100% recycled paper.
• Having an environmental assessment done on the event every year by Bow Valley Waste Management.
  
  

  

• We are powered by 100% Renewable Energy through Bow Valley Power. (What does this mean?)
  

The 2012 event promises to be even more sustainable. All proceeds from this year's race will go towards supporting CAUSE Canada's Women's Integral Empowerment Program (WIEP) part of which include reforestation, organic agriculture and water projects. Join us in creating a legacy of green both here in Canada and for our partners overseas!
 
In 2012 we will continue to strive to be Canada's Greenest race. Our 2008 race was rated one of North America's top 10 Greenest Races by Runner's World magazine. Read the article.

We were also mentioned twice in an article featuring ideas to make races greener. Read the article.

To learn more about the compostable cups used at the race, how they are produced, and how they biodegrade, check out these resources from NatureWorks.

• From Corn to Plastic.
• How biodegradable cups are made/unmade.

More information on CAUSE Canada's environmental values here.

Questions? events@cause.ca

How does Bow Valley Power power this event with Renewable Energy?
Bow Valley Power injects Renewable Energy into the Alberta electrical grid to equal the amount of energy used by the Canmore Rocky Mountain Half Marathon.

Who is Bow Valley Power?
Bow Valley Power is a Canmore-based energy provider supplying everday electrical needs and green power options. Bow Valley Power designates 20% of its revenue to green initiatives.

Why is it important that this event be powered by Renewable Energy?
Especially in Alberta, electricity pollutes. Consumer commitment to Renewable Energy shows energy providers and regulators that we care about sustainable solutions. Increasing the demand for green power means more renewable generation being built, which reduces our reliance on conventional (and much dirtier) methods of electricity generation (coal, natural gas, etc.). This has all kinds of benefits, including cleaner air, healthier people, and less pollution.

Can I get my own Renewable Energy from Bow Valley Power?
If you live in Alberta, then YES! Check out your everyday elecrtical and Renewable Energy options at www.bowvalleypower.net.