The thrill of a race, the roar of the crowd, the final push towards the finish line—it’s an experience that captures the human spirit. Yet, for all the inspiration they provide, large-scale events like the Brighton Half Marathon often leave a less inspiring trail behind: a significant amount of litter. A recent cleanup effort on the 1.7km stretch of Berridale Ave to First Ave after the Brighton Half Marathon on May 25, 2025, revealed a stark reality about the environmental impact of these events, primarily driven by “heat of the moment” decisions to discard used gel packets and other nutrition wrappers.
The data collected from this cleanup is a powerful testament to the problem. Of the 435 items of litter picked up, a staggering 364 (83.9%) were nutrition-related “gel ends” or wrappers, while another 71 (16.1%) were gel ends with the wrapper still attached. This highlights a clear and dominant source of the problem: the single-use packaging of energy gels. The data even breaks down the brands most commonly found, with SIS leading the pack at 247 discarded items, followed by High5 (93) and My Protein (15).
While these products are essential for fueling athletes, their convenience comes at a significant environmental cost. The “heat of the moment” of a race often means runners discard wrappers without a second thought, creating a plastic and foil waste stream that pollutes our streets and drains. This is not a problem unique to the Brighton Half Marathon; it’s a challenge faced by organizers and environmentalists at events worldwide.
So, how can we fuel our performance without sacrificing the planet? The solution lies in shifting away from single-use packaging towards reusable, sustainable alternatives. This is where innovative products like the Dual Fuel Bottle offer a compelling answer.
The Dual Fuel Bottle’s ingenious design, with its two separate and sealed compartments, makes it the perfect tool for a more sustainable approach to race-day nutrition. One compartment can hold your essential hydration, while the other can be filled with your preferred energy gel, eliminating the need for dozens of single-use packets. This one-bottle solution not only reduces litter but also streamlines your race-day gear, making it easier to carry and use your fuel without the hassle of fumbling with small, sticky wrappers.
Imagine a future where the post-race cleanup effort is minimal, and the only thing left behind is the memory of a great run. By embracing reusable solutions, runners can take an active role in protecting the environments they train and race in. Choosing to use a Dual Fuel Bottle is a small but powerful change that sends a clear message: that athletes are committed to performance and to a greener, more sustainable world.
This data from the Brighton Half Marathon is not just a list of discarded items; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that every runner has the power to make a difference. Let’s work together to make sure that the legacy of our events is not just personal bests, but also a cleaner, healthier planet for everyone. Make the switch to a smarter, more sustainable way to fuel your run.