Marina Barrage buzzed with energy as nearly 5,000 participants gathered for the Income Eco Run (IER) 2024, rallying for a zero waste and sustainable lifestyle just ahead of World Environment Day on June 5.
A Run for All
The IER, renowned for its inclusive approach, challenged Singaporeans to run their chosen distances ranging from 3 km to 21.1 km, under the rallying cry, “How Far Will You Go for Zero Waste?”. This event stands out as Singapore’s only mass run offering such flexibility, promoting broad participation.
Heightening its inclusivity, the IER introduced a Kids Category, inviting children aged four to twelve to run either 700m or 1 km. Athletes from the Special Olympics also joined the event, alongside participants of various ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels.
Leadership and Engagement
Dr. Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment, graced the event as Guest-of-Honour. She led the 5km flag-off at 7 a.m. and joined participants in running for the cause. Dr. Khor also explored the Income Eco Run Village, engaging with a variety of eco-friendly activities.
Matching Contributions for a Greener Future
Income Insurance continued its tradition of matching donations, contributing one dollar (S$1) for every kilometre clocked by participants. This year, participants covered nearly 60,000 kilometres, raising S$60,000 for the Singapore Environment Council (SEC) to support the Singapore Green Plan 2030. This amount marks a 50% increase over last year’s donation.
Pioneering Green Practices
IER 2024 took significant steps to reduce its environmental footprint. Adult running bibs were made 65% smaller than the industry standard, an improvement from last year’s 35% reduction. Kids wore bibs made of seed paper, which can be planted to grow into plants, fostering eco-consciousness from a young age.
Hydration points exclusively used 100% recyclable, plastic-free cups, and reusable cutlery was mandated to cut down on single-use plastic waste. Food waste, including banana peels, was sorted for composting.
Additionally, Income Insurance committed to offsetting the carbon footprint of the event, covering participants’ commutes to the Race Entry Pack Collection and Marina Barrage, as well as the production of IER tees.
Education and Advocacy
The Tzu Chi Foundation enriched the IER Village with interactive eco-exhibits, promoting sustainable practices through “Play”, “Practice”, and “Pledge”. Interactive game booths educated all ages on the environmental impacts of daily lifestyle choices, from food to fashion.
Waste sorting bins raised awareness about proper recycling, while volunteers at washing stations demonstrated efficient water use. Participants were encouraged to take the “Tread Lightly, Live Gently” pledge, committing to greener commutes, mindful purchasing, reducing disposables, and incorporating more meatless options into their diets.
Since 2017, Income Insurance has championed the zero-waste cause through the IER. After a three-year pandemic hiatus, the run returned in 2023, continuing to empower participants to support sustainability through their chosen distances.
