Best Foot Forward

Marathon Debuts More Green Initiatives In '09

It's Patriots Day in New England, which means the venerable Boston Marathon takes center stage in the sports world this afternoon. Race organizers this year are making strides to reduce the event's carbon footprint left behind, answering numerous calls from critics. Considered by some as one of the “least environmentally friendly road races,” the Boston Athletic Association will buy 22,440 pounds of carbon emission credits to offset the pollution caused by buses used to transport runners. Organizers also have replaced the pace-setting motorcycles with electric scooters, and will employ inmates to collect recyclables along the course. Meanwhile, the Boston Marathon may be recession-proof, as sales of event merchandise are tracking ahead of last year. adidas, the race’s official outfitter, has increased its product orders and distribution in hopes of doubling its sales of marathon-related merchandise.