Running For Plastic Pollution
“Growing up in Sydney, the oceans have always been a big part of my life. It’s incredible to see that adidas are taking such significant and positive steps in helping everyone fight marine plastic pollution. Together, we can protect the future of our oceans for everyone to enjoy.” – Ian Thorpe, Australian Olympic Gold Medalist
Every minute, a rubbish truck dumps waste into the ocean, pushing approximately 5.25 trillion pieces of trash into our oceans. With a total number of approximately 150,000 underwater species, there’s a lot in danger when it comes to the cleanliness of the ocean. This affects waterways going through our major cities, rivers and coastal environments. Plastic pollution is a massive issue that seriously needs to be cleaned up.
The waterways are a necessity for our country’s pristine image and an integral part in industry processes. Drinking, bathing, and irrigation too are key reasons why we all need to notice this change. Keeping our water clean is not just important for us, but it is also a necessity for our future generations.
In April 2015, multinational clothing, shoes and accessory company, adidas teamed up with Parley for the Oceans to better educate the next generation on how to treat the oceans, not just in New Zealand, but around the world too. School-run initiatives are being introduced by Parley to provide youth with an underwater experience so they can see first-hand the effects and changes they have to make for its more sustainable future. The global sport company and partner organization have been working tirelessly with their Parley Plastic Ocean Program and Parley AIR Strategy (Avoid, Intercept, Redesign) to really drive the message of cleaner, bluer oceans.
During July, adidas held their largest marathon to date alongside the organization to help fund this message. During the month-long event, runners were inspired to join the initiative to run as many kilometres as possible, tracking their progress on Runtastic and Joyrun. A total number of 12.4 million kilometres were covered across the world in cities such as London, New York, LA, Paris, Barcelona and Shanghai in a total of 200 activities. Nearly one million runners raised up to $1 million to help fund Parley for the Oceans. This campaign marks the message that we need to all come together to change this issue. It starts with only the smallest of ripples, and soon, with the help of many, we can make create a surge of awareness.
Adidas has also launched a new limited-edition line of shoes in support of the cause. This will also give runners the momentum of getting out there are donating money to tackle this issue. Adidas released the UltraBOOST Parley and UltraBOOST Parley Deep Ocean Blue. These shoes will help cement the contribution that adidas has with the message of safeguarding the world’s waterways for future generations.