2023 NYC Marathon Carbon Footprint Analysis

As an avid marathon runner who has completed 17 marathons since 2016, my passion for the sport has taken me around the world. However, it wasn't until I began to reflect on the environmental impact of my travels, especially the carbon footprint associated with air travel to international marathons, that I decided to investigate further. This curiosity led me to focus on the 2023 New York City Marathon, a global event that attracts tens of thousands of participants, to understand and quantify the environmental impact of such large-scale events.

For those interested in the full, detailed analysis, it is available by following this link.

Embarking on an Environmental Analysis

My analysis concentrated on the travel-related emissions of the marathon's participants. With the help of experts, I meticulously calculated the carbon emissions stemming from the travel of all 51,933 participants, employing sophisticated methodologies to ensure accuracy.

Methodology and Insights

The process involved gathering detailed participant data, employing algorithms for data cleaning, and using the Haversine formula for precise distance measurements. I distinguished between air and car travel, applying emission factors from reputable sources like the EPA and incorporating the impact of contrails into the calculations. The findings revealed the overwhelming impact of long-distance air travel on the marathon's overall carbon footprint, with international flights being the major contributor.

Findings and Global Impact

The results of this study were eye-opening. The total carbon emissions for the 2023 New York City Marathon were estimated to be around 54.3 kilotons, including the impact of contrails, significantly higher than estimates excluding them. This highlights the critical need for a comprehensive approach to understanding and mitigating the environmental impacts of such events.

Geographical Distribution and Carbon Contributions

The study also revealed the geographical distribution of participants, with a significant majority coming from the United States. However, international participants from countries like Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany contributed disproportionately to the carbon emissions due to the longer distances traveled. This underscores the global nature of the marathon and the associated environmental challenges.

A Call to Action for Sustainability

To put the marathon's emissions into perspective, they equate to the annual carbon footprint of thousands of individuals across different regions, showcasing the substantial environmental impact of this single event. Furthermore, the emissions exceed the combined absorption capacity of millions of trees, illustrating the scale of mitigation efforts required to offset such an event's carbon footprint.

This analysis not only highlights the significant environmental impact of the New York City Marathon but also calls for a broader reflection on the sustainability of large-scale sporting events. While efforts to manage waste and encourage sustainable practices are commendable, the predominant challenge lies in addressing the carbon emissions from travel.

Reflecting on Personal and Collective Responsibility

My journey from a marathon enthusiast to an environmental advocate has led me to realize the importance of considering the broader environmental implications of our hobbies and interests. It is essential for participants, organizers, and stakeholders to work together towards more sustainable practices, including promoting local participation, incentivizing carbon offsetting, and exploring alternative, more sustainable travel options.

Conclusion: Towards a Sustainable Future

In conclusion, while marathons and similar events bring together communities and promote fitness, they also pose significant environmental challenges that require collective action and systemic change. As we strive for personal achievements, let us also consider our environmental footprint and work towards a more sustainable and responsible approach to sports and leisure activities.