The Ocean State Rhode Races (OSRR) takes us through some of Rhode Island’s most iconic coastal landscapes. With that privilege comes a deep responsibility to protect our environment.
Rhode Races is Green-Certified by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. Over the past decade, Rhode Races has implemented green initiatives with the ultimate goal of becoming a Zero Waste event. This year, we are taking a massive step forward. We are officially expanding our partnership with 11th Hour Racing, making them the Official Sustainability Partner for the Ocean State Rhode Races!
To make this race a success, we need the help of our runners, spectators, and volunteers. Here is what you need to know for race day.
Key Green Initiatives on the Course
Reusable Cups by Hiccup Earth
At each aid station, reusable 8-ounce silicone cups will replace single-use cups for water.
- What to do: Toss your used cups into or near the 20-gallon black garbage cans marked with the Hiccup Earth logo. Please do not keep the cups, as they must be returned, washed, and reused for future events.
Zero-Litter Policy on the Roads
Littering along the course is strictly prohibited. We are especially focused on keeping plastic energy gel packets and their torn-off tops out of our oceans.
- What to do: Five-gallon buckets will be placed at every single mile marker, in addition to trash cans at every aid station.
- Zero Tolerance: Any runner caught littering on roads, beaches, or private property will be disqualified immediately. Hold onto your trash until you reach a mile marker or aid station.
Sustainable Finish Line and Green Station
- No Single-Use Plastic Bottles: We are replacing single-use plastic water bottles at the Finish Line festival with sustainable canned Open Water. Please recycle your empty cans in the designated festival bins.
- Green Station Clothing Collection: Thanks to Epic Renewal, discarded clothing at the Start line will be collected and held until the end of the race. Unclaimed items will be donated to local community organizations.
- Waste Sorting: Green Team members will be at the festival to help you properly sort your trash, compost, and recycling.
Join the OSRR Post-Race Plogging Team!
We are introducing a Post-Race Plogging Team to OSRR this year! Plogging, or jogging while picking up litter, ensures our courses are left cleaner than we found them.
We are seeking volunteer groups and individuals to follow behind the runners and clean up the course mile by mile. It is a rewarding way to support the local environment and connect with the community. You can sign up on our Volunteer page under OSRR.
Our community’s help is crucial in achieving a Zero Waste event. A special thank you to 11th Hour Racing for making these vital changes possible at Rhode Races events.
If you have any questions or want to volunteer, please visit our website at https://rhoderaces.com/volunteer/ or email us at info@rhoderaces.us.
