The BougeBouge Verdun Marathon is a BougeBouge classic. Now in its 7th year, the race is now an integral part of Verdun’s annual programme, but it is constantly evolving to improve and meet BougeBouge’s mission and sustainable development objectives ever more adequately. The BougeBouge Verdun Marathon now has a mission and has a significant impact on several levels: social, economic and environmental. This article explores these different aspects by highlighting the beneficial effects as well as the challenges posed by such an event.
Social Impact
Promoting health and well-being
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The BougeBouge Verdun Marathon encourages people to adopt a more active lifestyle, in line with BougeBouge’s primary mission: to fight against physical inactivity. By bringing together participants of all ages and fitness levels, the event promotes the importance of physical activity for physical and mental health. Races of different distances allow everyone to find a challenge to suit them, contributing to broad and inclusive participation. In addition, measures have been taken to make the event as accessible as possible. Among other things, the site is accessible to people with reduced mobility, and runners and walkers with visual impairments can be accompanied free of charge.
Reinforcing community relations
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A sporting event like this also helps to strengthen community ties. Residents of Verdun and the surrounding area come together to support the runners, creating a sense of community and solidarity. Volunteers from the local community play a crucial role in organising and running the event, strengthening civic involvement and participation. Local businesses are also mobilised to promote the event within the regional sporting community. All in all, it’s the people involved in active living who are mobilised around this event to highlight their efforts in the community and create a network of mutual support and collaboration around physical activity.
Economic impact
Boosting the local economy
The BougeBouge Verdun Marathon has a positive economic impact on the region. Participants and spectators spend money in local businesses, including hotels, restaurants and shops. This influx of visitors can be a significant source of revenue for local businesses, boosting Verdun’s economy. Partner and ambassador companies are also showcased at the event and given a unique opportunity to present their products and services and make contact with the community.
Environmental Impact
Waste management
A large-scale event like the BougeBouge Verdun Marathon generates a considerable amount of waste. To minimise this impact, the organisers put in place waste management initiatives such as selective sorting and recycling. However, the consumption of disposable materials (such as cups and water bottles) remains a major environmental challenge.
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Active transportation
Transporting participants and spectators can have a significant environmental impact, particularly in terms of CO2 emissions. To reduce this impact, BougeBouge encourages the use of public transport, car-sharing and sustainable modes of transport such as cycling. Sustainable mobility plans are integrated into the planning of the event to reduce its carbon footprint.
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Sensibilisation to eco-responsibility
The marathon also provides a platform for raising awareness of environmental issues among participants and the general public. Initiatives such as waste reduction campaigns, the use of eco-friendly materials and the promotion of environmentally-friendly behaviour, such as active transport, are highlighted. This helps to raise collective awareness and promote more sustainable practices.
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Conclusion
The BougeBouge Verdun Marathon is much more than just a sporting event. It has a profound impact on the community, the local economy and the environment. By encouraging an active lifestyle, stimulating the local economy and promoting environmentally friendly practices, the marathon plays a key role in the sustainable development of the Verdun region. However, it is crucial to continue to evaluate and improve management strategies to maximise benefits and minimise negative impacts.