XIAMEN, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- UN Environment looks forward to working with more Chinese marathons organizers to make their events more environmental friendly, its communications official said Sunday at the 2019 Xiamen Marathon.
The event is the first international marathon around the world to officially join forces with the UN Environment Clean Seas campaign, a global compact for combating marine litter with commitments from 51 countries and regions and a growing number of businesses and organizations.
Naysan Sahba, Director of Communications Division of UN Environment, said it will have a significant impact by replacing single-use plastic cups with biodegradable cups in this year's event.
He said Xiamen can make further changes towards alternative materials on badges, medals, and wristbands to set a world-class example not only as a marathon but also a sustainable event.
"I think organizers, the city, and sponsors of the Xiamen Marathon will take even further steps to get all the way down to zero waste," Sahba said.
Sahba said the invitation is open to all marathons in China and all sports event around the world to make their own commitments.
"Apart from the Clean Seas campaign, we have also launched initiatives to tackle air pollution, which is a very big health problem for athletes and citizens."
