THE GREENING OF THE GEM

While The Gem has always been environmentally conscious, this year it is even more so! Take a quick look at how GREEN THE GEM can be …

 

•  Tri-blend sustainable runner’s shirt uses up to 6 plastic water bottles

   

• Reusable tote bags are provided for everyday use and to reduce plastic bags

   

• Milkweed seeds provided to runners by the Village of Flossmoor aid in the fight to keep the monarch butterfly off the endangered species list

 

• 15,000 plant-based 100% compostable cups

 

• Volunteer-led Community Cleanup along the race route

 

• Promoting the use of bicycles on race day and at Flossmoor Fest

 

• Collecting and composting 500+ lbs. of bananas (special thanks to our Girl Scouts to assist with banana sticker removal!)

 

• Focusing efforts to collect and recycle all plastic water bottles

 

• Recycled cardboard waste receptacles collect compostable and recyclable materials

 

• Upcycling and reusing prior year promotional race signage to avoid unnecessary reordering and additional waste

 

• Promoting a “Green Education Mile” along the route, presented by the local School District 161 “Green Teams”

 

• “PLANT THE GEM!” Through a generous grant by the Morton Arboretum, volunteers will be planting 300 trees on October 15th along the 13.1 miles of the Hidden Gem Half Marathon – visit plantthegem.com.

 

• Even our coupons are green … Enjoy a discounted meal at Flossmoor Station Restaurant & Brewer — Home of the Hidden Gem Beer! (See above.)

 

 

Want to learn more about the Village of Flossmoor’s GREEN programs and initiatives? Visit flossmoor.org