The sustainability of the Rome Marathon organisation

Carbon footprint measurement

Starting from the 2021 edition, Circularity initiated the systematic measurement of the event's emissions according to the GHG Protocol — Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard methodology, integrated with the sport-specific guidelines developed by the International Olympic Committee. The measurement covers direct emissions (Scope 1 and 2) and indirect emissions linked to participant mobility and waste management (Scope 3).

Before each edition, an overall carbon footprint estimate is produced to define the emissions reduction plan; after the event, actual data updates the plan in view of the following edition. For the 2026 edition, 3,100 Gold Standard certified carbon credits were purchased to fully offset the Organisation's Scope 1 and 2 emissions and a significant share of emissions linked to participant travel. 

Circular waste management

In collaboration with AMA Roma and Plastic Free ODV, waste collection is active both in the Expo area and along the entire race route. Volunteer teams support the sorting and correct disposal of materials. From 2025, dedicated smokers-points were introduced for cigarette butt collection, which are subsequently recycled through a patented process. Also from 2025, in partnership with Water Defenders Alliance, a Seabin device installed at the Blue Dolphin facility in Fiumicino intercepts floating waste, plastics and microplastics from coastal waters. 

Food surplus and clothing recovery

In collaboration with Banco Alimentare Roma ODV, all food surplus from refreshment stations — fruit, drinks and snacks — is recovered and donated to charities within the Banco's network. Clothing left by runners at the start line is collected, sanitised and redistributed to local social organisations. Circularity supports the quantification of surplus and the assessment of its impact. 

Sustainable materials and mobility

Across successive editions, the organisation has progressively eliminated or replaced high-impact materials: from the official race shirt in 100% recycled polyester (2026 edition) to award plaques in recycled wood, from pacer balloons made with natural bio-based latex to the digitalisation of event communications. On the mobility front, collaboration with FERCAM for electric articulated lorries and with Hyundai for electric staff vehicles has reduced the logistical footprint of the event. 

ISO 20121 certification and social impact

In 2022, Circularity guided the entire organisation through the ISO 20121 certification process for the sustainable design, delivery and reporting of the event, obtained through the certification body RINA. In parallel, it contributed to drafting Infront Italy's Sustainability Policy. On the social side, the marathon has given rise to wide-ranging initiatives: from the Charity Program — which since 2021 has raised over €1 million for more than 40 non-profit organisations — to the "Si Muove la Città" project for the engagement of Rome's peripheral neighbourhoods, through to the Runner Youth Academy in Kinshasa. Since 2021, over 9,000 trees have been planted in collaboration with zeroCO2.