The second annual Guadalajara Green Race and Eco-Fair, exceeding organizers expectations, raised over 125,000 pesos from runners and corporate sponsors, to fund planting over three hectares of trees in an area of the Bosque de la Primavera formerly devastated by forest fires.
Despite competing with two other racing events on the same day, the Green Race sold out all of its 1,000 open slots. Organizers from the U.S. Consulate General and the American School Foundation of Guadalajara (ASFG) credit the success to increased civic interest from local business, government, schools and NGOs.
The event itself was a partnership between the U.S. Consulate General, ASFG and Reforestamos Mexico, demonstrating the diversity of talents and resources devoted to the cause. Consul General Susan Abeyta noted, “The Green Race was about more than just running, it was about mobilizing community resources to protect the planet. We may have been the primary organizers, but it was the collaboration from all of us here in Guadalajara – government, industry, schools, and civil society – which made this event a success.”
More than 1,500 participants in the Eco-Fair were able to meet with a half-dozen NGOs and dozens of eco-friendly companies to investigate ways they could make a difference in their daily lives to combat climate change. As David McGrath, Director General of the ASFG explained, “ASFG joined the Green Race because any time a group of committed individuals join together for a great cause, positive change really happens. The effects of global warming and environmental degradation are here today, and we have to act now as conscientious citizens to raise awareness, promote sustainable behaviors and affect policy at all levels of government and industry.”
The long-term impact of the Green Race will continue to be felt throughout the year. Inspired by the tremendous interest within the community in Guadalajara to participate, the U.S. State Department authorized an additional 50,000 dollars for related projects for education in local schools and consultation engagements with local businesses to help further “green” their operations. These additional funds demonstrate the consulate’s ongoing commitment to public-private partnerships. Together the reforestation and education events will ensure the success of the Green Race and provide a legacy of collaboration across the region.