General Information
Information about the Tokyo Marathon 2026 for anyone involved.
- Sustainable Projects through
- Diversity Initiatives
Tokyo Marathon EXPO 2026 Sustainability RUN CYCLE SQUARE will be held!
“Bring. Make. Learn. Your action creates the next start.” From collecting used running shoes to making Tokyo Marathon original recycled sandals, we offer a wide variety of hands-on programs where you can learn about sustainability while having fun. Would you like to join us in shaping the future of running culture—through your action?
Click here for details.
Sustainable Projects through Tokyo Marathon 2026
In an effort to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) the wider international community has set out to pursue, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation has been launching various sustainability initiatives. We have been focusing on “waste reduction,” “environmental conservation,” and “diversity, equity & inclusion” through our own initiatives and with our official partners. We recognize that the Tokyo Marathon is a mass event that provides an opportunity to promote and raise awareness, and deliver impact.
With our aim to create a sustainable society through running and sports, we ask the understanding and cooperation of all those involved in the event to play a part in these goals.
Initiatives to promote recycling of PET bottles used during the race (Bottle to Bottle horizontal recycling)
In collaboration with our official partner Otsuka Pharmaceutical, we will separate and collect the plastic bottles provided for runners at each aid station. The collected plastic bottles will be processed and turned into raw materials for recycled plastic bottles, which will then be reused as beverage containers by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and other beverage manufacturers.
*What is Bottle to Bottle | Environment | National Soft Drink Federation (j-sda.or.jp)
Recycling of aid station paper cups
We will collect the paper cups used at aid stations and recycle them. Runners will drink from the cups provided at aid stations and then place them in dedicated collection boxes. The collected paper cups will be processed as recycled paper to be used again as toilet paper.
Recycling Caps from Air® Salonpas® Used by Runners
Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical contributes to the realization of a sustainable society through its sponsorship of the Tokyo Marathon 2026. During the event, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical collect used caps from Air® Salonpas® products, process and recycle them, and transform them into clips for securing runners' bib numbers. This project is being promoted as a new form of recycling, connecting the symbol of one runner's challenge to the next runner.
Using electric vehicles along the course
In collaboration with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Zero Emission Vehicle promotion initiative, clean electric vehicles, such as Porsche Taycan, will be used as part of the support fleet for event operations. This effort aims to reduce CO2 emissions, providing a cleaner environment for athletes, and contributing to sustainability.
Promoting the use of environmentally friendly materials
Produce gear for volunteers using recycled materials
We will produce knapsacks to be handed out as personal luggage containers during volunteer activities, using recycled marine debris.
Finisher Medal Ribbon Made with Recycled Materials
The finisher medal ribbon uses recycled polyester made from existing resources.
CO2 Capture in Event Operations
We are conducting a trial to capture CO2 generated on site during event operations. Collection will be tested across staff gear, along the course, and in operational vehicles to validate approaches that lead to more environmentally conscious operations.
Promotion of Reuse
Promotion of Reuse of Volunteer Apparel
We will encourage volunteers to reuse this year's gear at next year's event and beyond.
Discontinuation of safety pin provision with runner's bib number packet
Installation of clothing collection boxes
Unwanted clothing and winter wear are collected at the Tokyo Marathon EXPO venue and around the start area, and are recycled through chemical recycling, thermal recycling, and reuse.
Reuse of course tape
We will reuse course tape where possible.
Upcycling of Tokyo Marathon flags
Upcycling of Tokyo Marathon flags
Flags produced for the Tokyo Marathon 2026 will be made into bags and other items and sold. In support of employment for the disabled, sewing work will be outsourced to facilities that employ people with disabilities, with a portion of bags and other items sales proceeds donated to the Tokyo Goodwill Bank (Tokyo Council of Social Welfare).
Reduction in production materials, etc.
Digitization of Tokyo Marathon 2026 official program
Advancing Sustainability through Art × Sport
From producing the event’s main visual to upcycling with repurposed materials and creating inclusive spaces,
we co-create with specialists across diverse fields—engaging a wide range of people, materials, and experiences.
Key initiatives:
- TOKYO MARATHON CREATIVE CAMP
- Running Artists
As one of the initiatives introduced on this page, we are rolling out RUN CYCLE—a participatory action that turns disposable items into value that connects, and keeps resources in circulation.
RUN CYCLE
From disposable to value that connects.
From “discarding” to a circular marathon.
Discarded apparel is reborn as something new.
Each runner’s action helps shape the future.
The marathon becomes a symbol of circularity.
Let’s be grateful for the chance to run—today.
THE REAL STORY BEGINS AFTER THE FINISH.
No Finish Line for Sustainability.
This marathon is more than an event.
It’s action—connecting us to the future.
This time the Foundation has renewed the “Sustainability Website” by adding more detailed information,
to clearly introduce the Foundation’s mission and initiatives.
Please take a look at the website.
Click here for the Sustainability Website.
