An eco-responsible event

Since the beginning of this wonderful adventure, we've been working to preserve our playground.

Ever since the first edition of the adidas MaXi-Race, we’ve been working to minimize the event’s environmental impact. We test different ideas—some work, others don’t—and we continue to evolve each year to better align with our values and the runners’ expectations. On this page, we’ll highlight a few of the initiatives we’ve implemented.

Drastic reduction in the number of plastic bottles

Ever since the creation of the “ Race,” we have installed water spouts at aid stations where drinking water is available in order to minimize waste from bottled water as much as possible. These consistent and ongoing efforts have already allowed us to avoid using 240,000 bottles. In 2021, local authorities also supported us in this initiative and provided us with a new water station at the finish line, as well as additional water tanks along the course. At the same time, we are offering lemonade on tap at the finish line refreshment station, again with the goal of reducing plastic bottles.

Thorough reflection on career paths and co-construction

We are also committed to preserving the trails we use. In coordination with the various managers of the areas we traverse (nature reserves, parks, the ONF, Grand Annecy, private landowners, alpine pasture owners, etc.), we may need to carry out tree-cutting, trail restoration, or the construction of footbridges to preserve wetlands.
When planning the routes, we also take care to alternate the trails used not only from year to year but also between races.

Reusable trail markers: an internal charter since 2011

At adidas MaXi-Race, we have had an internal signage policy in place since 2011, and we conduct regular training sessions for our staff.

We mainly use fabric strips or jalonettes which we install the day before the Race and remove as soon as the last runner has passed, so that they can be reused in subsequent years.
We position as many volunteers as possible at intersections, and if we have to use road markings, we only use clay pigments, which fade quickly.
We also ask markers to make their markings on soft ground, such as earth, and not on trees or pebbles, where marks take longer to fade.

A label

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, seeking to raise awareness among event organizers and participants about these issues, created a platform for eco-friendly sporting events, which we joined in 2022. In our very first year—and without implementing any additional measures—we were awarded the Gold label, the highest possible level, attesting to the quality and relevance of the initiatives we have been carrying out for more than 15 years.

A reduction in carbon emissions between 2019 and 2029

Since 2019, the organization has decided, without any external pressure, to implement a 10-year plan to reduce the event's carbon emissions by 40%.