Main Projects of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation Sustainable Initiatives
01. Environment-Friendly Projects
We reduce operational waste by prioritizing reduction and reuse and by adopting low‑impact materials. We also improve energy efficiency and pursue carbon‑neutral operations as part of our climate action—delivering events in harmony with the environment.
Sustainability in numbers
Amounts of Clothing and Cold-Weather Clothing Collected
At the Tokyo Marathon 2025, we collected 4,780kg of unnecessary clothing and cold-weather clothing at around the start area and recycled them to polyester through chemical recycling.
A part of them were reused as new products and we realized the reduction of environmental burden as well as the sustainable operation of the event.
Specific Initiatives
Initiatives to promote recycling of PET bottles used during the race (Bottle to Bottle horizontal recycling)
In collaboration with our official partner Otsuka Pharmaceutical, we will separate and collect the plastic bottles provided for runners at each aid station. The collected plastic bottles will be processed and turned into raw materials for recycled plastic bottles, which will then be reused as beverage containers by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and other beverage manufacturers.
Recycling of aid station paper cups
We will collect the paper cups used at aid stations and recycle them. Runners will drink from the cups provided at aid stations and then place them in dedicated collection boxes. The collected paper cups will be processed as recycled paper to be used again as toilet paper.
Recycling Caps from Air® Salonpas® Used by Runners
Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical contributes to the realization of a sustainable society through its sponsorship of the Tokyo Marathon 2026. During the event, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical collect used caps from Air® Salonpas® products, process and recycle them, and transform them into clips for securing runners' bib numbers. This project is being promoted as a new form of recycling, connecting the symbol of one runner's challenge to the next runner.
Using electric vehicles along the course
In collaboration with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Zero Emission Vehicle promotion initiative, clean electric vehicles, such as Porsche Taycan, will be used as part of the support fleet for event operations. This effort aims to reduce CO2 emissions, providing a cleaner environment for athletes, and contributing to sustainability.
Finisher Medal Ribbon Made with Recycled Materials
The finisher medal ribbon uses recycled polyester made from existing resources.
CO₂ Capture in Event Operations
We are conducting a trial to capture CO₂ generated on site during event operations. Collection will be tested across staff gear, along the course, and in operational vehicles to validate approaches that lead to more environmentally conscious operations.
Promoting Reuse of Uniforms
Apparel distributed to volunteers and others is collected and reused at future events. By circulating items carefully through collection and cleaning—rather than discarding them after a single year—we reduce the environmental impact of apparel production and make effective use of resources.
Discontinuation of Safety Pins in Athlete Bib Sets
To reduce waste, we discontinued including safety pins in athlete bib (race number) sets. By reducing the safety pins previously distributed to participants, we curb plastic packaging and metal waste, promoting environmentally considerate operations.
Clothing Collection Boxes
In the start area, we collect unwanted cold‑weather wear and other clothing that runners wore up until just before the start. Collected items are properly recycled through recycling partners, including material recycling and thermal recycling.
Upcycling of Event Flags
Instead of disposing of event flags that decorated the streets, we upcycle them into products such as bags. By commissioning sewing to employment support facilities for people with disabilities, we contribute not only to environmental conservation but also to employment support.
Use of Ocean‑Plastic Recycled Materials
For items such as drawstring bags distributed to volunteers for their personal belongings, we use materials recycled from marine plastic litter, promoting the circular use of plastic resources and raising awareness of marine pollution.
Reuse of Course Tape
We collect a portion of the course tape installed along the course and reuse it at the next event to reduce single‑use materials.
Green Mileage Program "Present Tree"
For Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon–related events, such as the "TOKYO Night Relay & 1 Mile in National Stadium," we will convert participants' running distance into miles and, for every 60 miles earned, we will plant one tree in Hinohara Village, Tokyo through the "Present Tree" initiative. Run today for a greener tomorrow!
Silicone Cup Distribution
At aid stations on race day, we will provide sports drinks and water using paper cups, ensuring enough supply to sufficiently hydrate all runners. As a participation gift, we will distribute silicone cups with the Tokyo Marathon logo at Packet Pick‑up; these can be used for pouring water over yourself to cool down in unexpected hot weather.