‘Plogging’ is an innovative sporting practice that combines exercise with environmental activism. It involves running or walking while picking up litter from the environment, promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. Its name comes from the fusion of the Swedish term ‘plocka upp’ (to pick up) and the English word ‘running’. Since its origin in Stockholm in 2016, it has gained popularity worldwide.
Although many people practiced ‘plogging’ without knowing its name, this discipline has become a global phenomenon thanks to its spread on social networks and the commitment of various organizations. In Spain, the movement was promoted by Eduar Reyes Olivares, coordinator of Plogging España. Reyes Olivares discovered the concept through a Google alert about ‘running’ and decided to implement it in the country after receiving advice from French colleagues.
“‘Plogging’ was born among runners who, upon seeing the amount of trash on their usual routes, felt the need to do something about it. Over time, we have shown that it does not affect athletic performance and, on the contrary, adds value to the activity,” explains Reyes Olivares.
One of the main promoters of this initiative on a global scale was Elizabeth Toth, who in 2018 brought ‘plogging’ to Austria and created Plogging World. Its objective is to connect associations and NGOs from different cities and consolidate this practice by establishing an International Plogging Day.
More than just a sport: a tool for raising awareness
‘Plogging’ transcended the sporting realm and became an attractive alternative for companies and entities seeking to strengthen their environmental commitment through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). “It is an accessible, cost-effective activity with an immediate impact on the environment,” emphasizes Reyes Olivares.
Moreover, this practice aims to raise awareness about the impact of waste on nature. Reyes Olivares emphasizes the importance of avoiding the use of plastic bags during collection and opting for biodegradable materials. “The goal is for it not to be a one-time act but to serve as a means to change habits and connect people with the environmental reality,” he states.
Plogging in action: solidarity and commitment
The reach of ‘plogging’ goes beyond sports and urban cleaning. In 2021, during the floods in Brazil, the country’s ‘plogging’ community used its network to coordinate cleaning efforts and search for missing persons, demonstrating that this initiative can become a powerful tool for social and environmental activism.
Thus, ‘plogging’ emerges as a global movement that not only promotes physical well-being, but also invites reflection on the impact of our actions on the planet. A simple and effective way to join forces in the fight against pollution and promote a more sustainable culture.
Argentina also practices plogging
Plogging is an activity practiced in Argentina that involves running and picking up trash, combining sports with environmental care. In 2018, Paula Gosso Eguía, a doctor from Mar del Plata, created Plogging Argentina, one of the fan groups that proliferate on social media, and since then, the movement born in Sweden has spread throughout the country.
How to practice
- It is recommended to wear sportswear or comfortable clothing.
- Bring gloves to protect your hands.
- Have a trash bag to deposit the collected items.
Benefits
- Prevents sedentary behavior.
- Promotes city cleanliness.
- Contributes to sustainability.
- Burns more calories.
- Produces endorphins.
- Can be turned into a fun activity.
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