Nature – Our Main Partner

The Big Bear’s Ultra race takes place in an environment that we love and deeply cherish. We are aware that our footprint on nature must be minimal, and therefore, we adhere to strict principles of ecological responsibility that align with the international standards of the ITRA Green Charter.

Our main commitment: To leave behind no trace.

For a successful and sustainable event, cooperation is essential from both the organizers and every single runner.

The Organizing Team’s Eco-Code

As organizers, we are committed to minimizing the ecological impact of the event in the following key areas:

1. Ecological Marking: We use reusable materials for course marking and ensure their 100% collection by the sweepers team immediately after the race ends.
2. Zero Waste on the Course: At aid stations, we do not use single-use cups. We sort waste as much as possible and ensure its proper processing. In addition to removing marking, the sweep team checks the condition of the course and guarantees that no trash remains on the route after the last competitor.
3. Digital Communication: We minimize the printing of promotional materials and prioritize online communication.
4. Sustainable Merchandise: We craft proper, technical apparel—tees and caps—built for the demands of ultra-distance running. Our merchandise philosophy is rooted in sustainability: the majority is produced to-order to minimize waste. Most importantly, by excluding the year from our designs, we ensure our apparel remains timeless, reusable, and never obsolete for future events.
5. Water and Energy: At the venue and aid stations, we pay attention to saving water and energy. We minimize the use of bottled drinking water to the maximum extent possible.
6. Aid Stations: We place the aid stations in a way that minimizes the impact on nature.
7. Reducing Transport Impact: To reduce emissions and environmental impact, organized bus transport is provided for BBU60+ and BBU40 route participants from the race venue directly to the start.

The Runners’ Eco-Code

Respect for nature begins with every runner. Participation in BBU means you automatically agree to the following environmental rules. Their violation is grounds for immediate disqualification:

1. Total Ban on Littering: You must carry all packaging (gels, bars, wipes) with you. Any waste can only be discarded into marked bins at aid stations.
2. Mandatory Equipment: As per the rules, bring your own cup to the aid stations. Single-use cups will not be available.
3. Respecting the Course: It is forbidden to shorten the route or run outside the marked path. This protects fragile vegetation.
4. Consideration for Nature: Be respectful of the fauna and flora, especially during the night hours. Do not take anything from the forest, nor leave anything behind.
5. Shared Transport: If possible, organize your trip to the event through carpooling and reduce the number of cars in the area.

Thank you for helping us keep our mountains beautiful and clean for nature lovers and future generations of runners. See you at the start – and at the finish!