Plogging for Cleaner Trails - The Plastic Runner
The Plastic Runner is a pioneering grassroots initiative founded by Karin Traeger in 2018. This movement harnesses the power of plogging, where running meets environmental activism, to engage local communities and positively impact the environment. Karin initiated this project while pursuing a Master of Environment at the University of Melbourne, and it has since evolved into a widely embraced movement with her local and global community.
About The Plastic Runner
The Plastic Runner was born from Karin's vision to combine her passion for running with environmental conservation. Through plogging—an activity that involves picking up litter while jogging—The Plastic Runner has become a driving force for positive change, hosting over 35 events across Australia.
Campaign Highlights
Plogging for Change: The Plastic Runner introduced plogging to local communities, transforming running into a force for good.
National Impact: Over 35 events were organised across Australia, mobilising a community of over 500 volunteers.
Environmental Impact: The initiative successfully collected over 1500 kilograms of litter from trails, parks, and riverbanks, making tangible strides in environmental conservation.
Strategic Partnerships: The Plastic Runner gained the support of key partners, including Salomon, Paddy Pallin, Arcteryx, and Clean Up Australia.
Project Inclusions
Event Coordination: Planned and executed over 35 events, ensuring smooth logistics and community engagement.
Volunteer Management: Mobilised and coordinated over 500 volunteers, fostering a sense of community and shared environmental responsibility.
Digital Communications: Managed all aspects of digital communications, including social media, newsletters, and the official website, to keep the community informed and engaged.
Partnership Building: Established strategic partnerships with Salomon, Paddy Pallin, Arcteryx, and Clean Up Australia to enhance the initiative's reach and impact.
Educational Outreach: Conducted educational programs and outreach initiatives to raise awareness about the impact of plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices.
Website Development: Created and maintained The Plastic Runner's website, serving as a hub for information, events, and community engagement.
Newsletter Creation: Crafted regular newsletters to update volunteers, partners, and the community on upcoming events, achievements, and environmental insights.
Campaign Expansion: Developed strategies to expand the initiative's reach, encouraging more communities to embrace plogging and environmental activism.
Explore The Plastic Runner Movement
Immerse yourself in The Plastic Runner journey. Check out the links below to read articles and join the movement.
The Sydney Morning Herald Article
ABC Sporty Podcast Episode with Amanda Smith
Matters Journal Article - Running for Good
The Age Article - Rubbish Revolution
