Sustainable Certification

As triathletes at UCSD we spend a lot of time swimming, cycling, and running outside, and we're lucky to be able to enjoy the beautiful weather, terrain, and beaches of San Diego. Unfortunately, we're aware that global warming, resource exploitation, and short-term thinking are endangering our lifestyle and our communities. We're also aware that most organized sporting events are not planned with long-term impacts in mind.

We don't accept this! The UCSD Triathlon Team has decided to confront global environmental problems by acting locally.

The Grove Run will be he first certified sustainable race in Southern California and the first sustainable race hosted by a collegiate triathlon team. We want to show that sustainable sport is possible with the right planning and focus, and we've decided to work with the Council for Responsible Sport for third party certification and transparency. We'll achieve ReSport certification with the help and collaboration of many organizations at UCSD and in the local community.

ReSport will evaluate us against 41 criteria. We are seeking credit in the following areas:

1. Recycling of cardboard, glass, plastic water bottles, aluminum cans, metal, and paper.
2. Composting food waste.
3. Creating less than 1 pound of landfill waste per participant.
4. Using renewable energy sources to power the event.
5. Creating a race site accessible by public or mass transportation and facilitating carpooling.
6. Using of alternative-fuel vehicles by race production team.
7. Sourcing all food within 250 miles.
8. Providing organic food.
9. Offsetting participant travel by high quality carbon credits x 2 (carbon restorative).
10. Implementing at least one policy to reduce water consumption.
11. Eliminating redundant travel for all participants.
12. Printing race materials with FSC certified recycled paper and non-toxic ink.
13. No paper-based registration.
14. Borrowing major pieces of essential equipment, and making new equipment made from recycled or surplus materials.
15. All race apparel uses alternative fabrics and non-toxic inks.
16. Not offering a race t-shirt.
17. Race finisher award uses local, sustainable materials, and athletes can choose to opt-out from the award.
18. All food service products (plates, cups, utensils) are compostable.
19. Enhance and supports the UCSD Eucalyptus Grove Trails, a local public-use asset.
20. Organizing committee includes representation from local community.
21. Participants, spectators, and volunteers have mechanisms to take part in sustainable practices.
22. Investing in a local non-profit charity.
23. Increasing public awareness in water resource management.
24. Recommending alternative lodging for overnight participants.
25. Working to increase participation by female, at-risk, persons with disabilities, or minority segments of the population.
26. Encouraging direct involvement by youth.
27. Providing incentives for beginners or first-time participants.
28. Educating the public of the event's health benefits.
29. Creating a mechanism for participants to provide feedback on sustainability efforts.
30. Creating a Greenest Athlete competition.
31. Creating a Gear Exchange.
32. Offering part-organic smoothies blended with renewable energy.

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