In the last two decades, trail running or mountain races have experienced spectacular growth worldwide. In European countries like France, Germany, and Spain, the increase in events and participants has been very noticeable.
This boom has brought clear benefits: economic dynamization, temporary employment, and greater visibility of rural areas as sports and tourist destinations. During a race weekend, a natural environment can transform into a true showcase.
The challenge of sustainability
The success of trail running poses a challenge: how to grow without compromising the environment or local communities.
- More runners imply greater wear on trails.
- More waste, noise, and mobility are generated.
- Fragile ecosystems and small towns suffer additional stresses.
The problem is no longer whether these races generate impact, but how to manage it.
Green Trail Concept: a pioneering certification
In this context, Green Trail Concept emerges, the first European-specific certification for mountain races, supported by the Erasmus+ program and various sports organizations. Its objective is to manage growth under environmental, social, and economic sustainability criteria.
The certification evaluates:
- Event ecological footprint: transportation, protection of flora and fauna, responsible use of infrastructures.
- Sustainable mobility measures: public transport, carpooling, regulation of access and parking.
- Social and economic aspects: support for local commerce, collaboration with municipalities, inclusion, and gender equity.
Beyond waste
Green Trail Concept is not limited to measuring plastics or trash. It recognizes that races can:
- Alter habitats.
- Disturb fauna and flora.
- Introduce invasive species.
- Pollute rivers and soils.
That’s why it seeks to translate sustainability into clear and measurable rules, professionalizing organization and setting common standards in Europe.
Is a certification enough?
The sector tries to self-regulate, but the question arises: can a seal guarantee sustainability on its own? The answer is no. A certification organizes practices and reduces damage, but it does not necessarily change the way events are organized nor ensure a common vision of the territory.
Trail running is more than a sport: it is a social construction that activates local identity, community relationships, and economic dynamics.
Complementary tools
In addition to the seal, the following are needed:
- Training for organizers.
- Collaboration between academia, administrations, and promoters.
- Practical tools adapted to each territory.
The sector’s advancement must be based on clear decisions:
- Increase bib numbers or preserve territorial balance?
- Maximize immediate economic impact or ensure long-term viability?
Trail running faces its greatest challenge: growing without destroying what makes it possible. Green Trail Concept is an important step towards sustainability, but the future will depend on how territories decide to balance development, local identity, and environmental conservation.
