Athletics Kenya Introduces Green Bib Carbon Offset Program for Races

Athletics Kenya launched the Green Bib Initiative on April 21, 2025 (Earth Day), requiring all sanctioned races to offset emissions via tree planting or clean cookstove distribution. Runners opt-in at registration (KSh 100 extra), funding verified carbon credits through the Kenya Forest Service. In its first 6 months, 42 events participated—including the Nairobi Marathon—offsetting 860 tonnes of CO₂ and planting 12,400 indigenous trees in the Aberdares and Mt. Kenya. Your finish line shouldn’t cost the planet, said AK’s Environmental Officer, Dr. Lydia Wanjala. World Athletics featured the program in its *Sustainable Events Toolkit*. Corporate sponsors like Britam now match contributions 1:1. A mobile app tracks each athlete’s eco-mileage.