At Canada Running Series, environmental responsibility is part of our commitment to building healthy communities through running. The places where we run, gather, and celebrate matter, which is why sustainability is embedded into every aspect of the Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon.
We’re proud that the event has earned Gold Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport, recognizing our efforts to reduce environmental impact while creating an exceptional race experience.
This year, participants will see sustainability initiatives throughout race weekend designed to reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect the communities we run through. Learn about them below!
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New for 2026: Course Waste Drop Zones
To help keep our race routes clean, we’re introducing designated Waste Drop Zones at every aid station. Please dispose of cups, gel wrappers, and other race waste within these marked areas.
Together, we can leave the course better than we found it.
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Give Back After Race Day
The work doesn’t stop at the finish line.
Join us for a community beach cleanup at Kits Beach on Monday, June 29, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Co-hosted by Shoreline Rescue Club and the Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon, this event is an opportunity to give back to the coastline that makes our race so special. Supplies will be provided; participation is free, and volunteers will be eligible for giveaways and raffle prizes.
Whether you come with friends or join solo, you’ll be helping protect local shorelines and leaving the course better than we found it.
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Give Your Shoes a Second Life
We’re partnering with Soles4Souls to collect gently used running shoes at Race Kit Pickup. Your donation helps support communities in need while keeping wearable footwear out of landfills.
At Soles4Souls, social impact meets sustainability. Giving your shoes a second life helps turn excess into relief for those facing hardship, opportunity for communities, confidence for kids, and a healthier planet for all.
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Powered by Renewable Energy
Through our partnership with Greenwave, key race operations are powered by solar generators. From announcers and cheer stations to photo activations and water stations, we’re reducing our reliance on traditional fuel-powered generators wherever possible.
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Reducing Waste
Our on-course water cups are compostable, and electrolyte cups are recyclable, helping divert waste from landfill.
From the Start Line to the Finish Area and throughout the course, clearly labelled waste stations will make it easy to sort organics, recycling, and garbage correctly. Every properly sorted cup makes a difference.
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How You Can Help
Sustainability is a team effort. Here are a few simple ways you can support our environmental goals on race day:
- Choose low-impact transportation by biking, taking transit, riding the shuttle, or carpooling.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and take advantage of refill stations throughout race weekend.
- Use designated Waste Drop Zones and disposal stations for cups and packaging.
- Hold onto gel wrappers and other nutrition packaging until you reach a waste station.
Small actions from thousands of participants add up to a meaningful impact.
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Fundraising for the Planet
The Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon is about more than crossing the finish line—it’s about giving back to the communities and environments that inspire us.
This year, we’re partnering with Trans Canada Trail and Trees for Life to raise funds for projects that protect natural spaces, support biodiversity, and strengthen environmental stewardship across Canada.
Donate today and help run for a healthier planet.
