Nearly 5,000 Runners Unite for Sustainability at the Great Green Run 2024

On the morning of 12 October, close to 5,000 participants gathered at the scenic Marina Barrage for the second edition of the Great Green Run (GGR), an event dedicated to raising awareness about sustainability. Presented by CIMB, this year’s run brought together individuals passionate about environmental causes, offering both 5km and 10km routes. Every finisher was awarded a unique medal sustainably crafted in the Kingdom of Bhutan, a fitting reminder of the event’s eco-conscious mission.

Guest-of-Honour Mr. Baey Yam Keng, Senior Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and Ministry of Transport, graced the event, reinforcing the importance of initiatives like GGR in advancing Singapore’s Green Plan 2030. The GGR aligns with four United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Good Health and Wellbeing, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, and Climate Action.

This year’s run introduced exciting new elements to inspire the community to adopt more sustainable practices. A standout addition was the expanded Green Bazaar, in partnership with T.Cartel, featuring a diverse range of eco-friendly vendors. Attendees could browse stalls offering food and beverages, vintage retail, and pre-loved items, while also participating in workshops promoting sustainability.

Among the vendors was social enterprise The Green and Purple Movement, which empowers people with disabilities (PWDs) and the elderly through sustainability projects. Their initiatives include community gardens and portable garden walls for offices, all maintained by PWDs. At GGR, they launched their Sustainability Circle Membership, which offers a monthly veggie pack and exclusive access to sustainability events across the island. Visitors to their booth also enjoyed fresh, garden-to-table options, including kombucha and herbs harvested straight from the garden.