Schneider Electric Takes the Role of Official Sustainability Partner at the Iconic Boston Marathon

A New Era of Sustainability at the Boston Marathon

The renowned Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America, is taking a significant step towards sustainability with the announcement of Schneider Electric as the official sustainability partner for all events held by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.). As an industry leader in energy management and automation technology, Schneider Electric is set to enhance the eco-friendliness of major running events, including the Boston 5K, Boston 10K, and Boston Half. The collaboration aims to establish a six-year partnership that emphasizes sustainability across various platforms.

Jack Fleming, President and CEO of the B.A.A., expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that the shared mission reflects a commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle while maintaining a focus on community welfare. The integration of Schneider Electric’s expertise is expected to push the B.A.A. toward becoming a leader in sustainable practices within the sporting world.

As part of this partnership, the B.A.A. will gain valuable support from Schneider Electric to calculate its carbon footprint, set ambitious environmental targets, and publish annual sustainability reports, starting with their inaugural report planned for 2025. This structured approach will not only strengthen the B.A.A.'s sustainability efforts but also serve as a model for other sporting events worldwide.

Aamir Paul, President of North America Operations for Schneider Electric, stated, “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to driving positive change and promoting sustainability at every level.” Schneider Electric’s focus will be on minimizing the environmental footprint of the Boston Marathon while also encouraging runners and spectators to adopt eco-friendly practices.

The partnership goes beyond typical event sponsorship, as Schneider Electric aims to transform the Boston Marathon into a benchmark for sustainability on a global scale. Initiatives such as ‘cheer zones’ staffed by Schneider Electric volunteers and strategies to promote recycling will be integrated into upcoming events. These initiatives are designed to leave a lasting positive impact on the community while engaging thousands of participants and fans in the sustainability movement.

With over 130 years of commitment to the Boston area, Schneider Electric has established a strong local presence with facilities in Boston, Foxborough, and Andover, and employs more than 2,200 people in New England. The partnership builds on Schneider Electric’s collaborations with local organizations, including educational institutions and charity programs, signifying a long-term investment in the local community.

In the past year, the B.A.A., underlines its commitment to sustainability, achieved a waste diversion rate of 58%, demonstrating significant progress in eco-friendly waste management. The partnership with Schneider Electric will further facilitate the B.A.A.'s desire to create a sustainable foundation that includes extensive recycling and responsible sourcing practices among local vendors and suppliers.

The B.A.A. is also a participant in the World Athletics' 'Athletics for a Better World' program, which aims to promote sustainability in sports globally. 2024 not only showcased the B.A.A.’s commitment but also produced economic benefits, with the marathon generating an impressive $509 million in state and local economic activity.

Moving forward, the 129th Boston Marathon is scheduled for April 21, 2025, and with Schneider Electric on board, the event is poised to be not just a display of athletic excellence but also a strong testament to environmental responsibility. By aligning with Schneider Electric, the B.A.A. takes an important step in fostering a culture of sustainability in sports that will reverberate far beyond the finish line. As we look ahead, the commitment to sustainability will not only contribute to a healthier planet but also inspire a community to embrace greener choices in their lives.

For those interested in learning more about the B.A.A. and its initiatives, additional information can be found at www.baa.org.