Building on the strong sustainability foundation of TCS World 10K 2025, the 2026 edition aims to strengthen, scale, and improve our environmental initiatives, ensuring a more responsible and impactful event.

1. Waste Management & Circularity
   • Zero Waste to Landfill (Continued Commitment): All waste generated during the event will continue to be diverted away from landfills.
   • Enhanced Last-Mile Waste Management: Strengthened collaboration with BBMP and Hasiru Dala Innovations for faster and more efficient waste handling.
   • Improved Waste Segregation at Source: Clearer signage, better bin placement, and trained volunteers to ensure accurate wet/dry segregation.
   • Organic Waste to Bio-CNG: Organic waste to be converted into bio-CNG at Hasiru Dala’s biogas facility.
   • Expanded Recycling Pathways:
     • PET bottles to be recycled into usable products such as apparel accessories.
     • Paper and cardboard waste to be converted into craft paper and stationery.
     • Event branding materials to be upcycled into functional products through NGO partners.
2. Plastic Reduction & Sustainable Materials
   • No Plastic Covers for Bibs or Volunteer T-Shirts: Complete elimination of plastic packaging at distribution points.
   • Reusable & Durable Event Bags: Continued use of reusable backpack bags for participants.
   • Eco-Friendly Packaging: Paper bags and sustainable alternatives for all event kits.
   • Return & Collection Points: Dedicated bins for collecting any unavoidable plastic for responsible recycling.
3. Water Stewardship
   • Bring Your Own Bottle (BYOB) – Stronger Push: Increased refill stations along the route and venue.
   • Reduced Single-Use Bottles: Exploring alternatives such as paper cups or reusable glasses where permitted.
   • Water Reuse: Leftover drinking water and ice packs to be reused for watering plants and green spaces.
4. Food Sustainability
   • Zero Food Waste Goal: Improved planning and coordination to minimize surplus food.
   • Food Redistribution: Excess food to be donated through partner NGOs, ensuring it reaches people in need safely and on time.
5. Sustainable Mobility
   • Encouraging Public Transport & Carpooling: Clear communication promoting metro, public transport, and carpooling.
   • Bicycle Parking Facilities: Dedicated bicycle stands at the venue with advance communication to participants.
   • Reduced Carbon Footprint Planning: Optimized logistics and transport planning for vendors and teams.
6. Community & Social Impact
   • Shoe Collection Drive (Expanded): Continued collection of used running shoes at the expo for redistribution.
   • Volunteer & Participant Awareness: Sustainability briefings for volunteers and messaging for runners to encourage responsible behaviour.
7. Education & Engagement
   • On-Ground Sustainability Messaging: Signage, announcements, and digital content promoting eco-friendly practices.
   • Athlete & Influencer Advocacy: Elite athletes and influencers to speak about sustainability and responsible running.
8. Transparency & Reporting
   • Detailed Sustainability Report for 2026:
     • Waste generated and diverted
     • Recycling and upcycling outcomes
     • Water and food savings
     • Public Disclosure: Report to be shared on the event website and social media platforms.
9. Biodiversity Survey
   As part of our commitment to environmental stewardship, TCS World 10K 2026 will continue to integrate biodiversity assessment into event planning and execution.
   • Pre-Event Biodiversity Survey: A professional biodiversity survey will be conducted along the race route, start/finish areas, and key venues to document existing flora and fauna.
   • Expert-Led Assessment: The survey will be carried out by qualified environmental experts to ensure accurate identification and reporting.
   • Impact-Sensitive Planning: Findings from the survey will help us plan route activities, lighting, and operations in a way that minimizes disturbance to local ecosystems.
   • Post-Event Monitoring: A follow-up assessment will be conducted to ensure that the event has not caused any long-term adverse impact on the surrounding biodiversity.
   • Environmental Awareness: Key learnings from the survey will be shared internally to strengthen environmentally responsible decision-making for future events.
10. Air Quality Index (AQI) Monitoring
    Recognising the importance of clean air for runners, volunteers, and spectators, air quality monitoring will be an integral part of TCS World 10K 2026.
    • Strategic AQI Monitoring Locations: AQI monitoring will be carried out at start and finish points, major congregation zones, and along the race route.
    • Multiple Time-Based Readings: Air quality readings will be taken at different time intervals, including late-night and early-morning hours, to capture accurate event-day conditions.
    • Data-Driven Insights: Collected AQI data will help assess air quality trends and provide valuable insights for participant safety and event planning.
    • Transparency & Reporting: AQI findings will be documented and included in the post-event sustainability report, reinforcing transparency and accountability.
    • Health-Focused Planning: The data will support informed decisions on event timing, hydration strategies, and runner advisories.
       

RUNNER ETIQUETTES

Great runs are built on good habits.  
Master the basics on race day,  
and let your every stride lead the way.

Before Your Run

• Time Management: All runners must strictly adhere to the timings mentioned in the Event Handbooks (available on the event website). Failure to comply with these timelines will result in the runner being restricted from participating in the event.
  • Ensure you reach the venue at 60 minutes prior to your race start time.
• Line up only in the allocated Start Wave section. Please remain patient as your race timing will start only when you cross the start line.
• Your running bib must be clearly visible at all times. Wear your bib clearly on the front of your running vest. Any bib exchange, duplication, or misuse is liable for participation disqualification.
• Follow Instructions: Comply with announcements and directions from race officials, marshals, and volunteers at all times.

On-Course Conduct

• Only confirmed runners are allowed on course – you must NOT run with any individuals, including under-age individuals, who are not confirmed to participate in your race category. 
• Keep to your left, especially if you are running at a slow space. 
• Give a heads-up before overtaking a runner in front of you – don’t pass by if there isn’t enough room. 
• Respect personal space: Avoid crowding others at all times – keep a respectful distance throughout the race. Importantly, avoid unnecessary contact.
• Don’t block the course – avoid running in wide groups.
• Exercise caution at bottlenecks and on uneven road surfaces along the course.
• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert to avoid collisions or accidents.
• Further avoid sudden direction changes without checking behind you.
• Route Facilities etiquette: Move to the side towards route facilities stations; don’t abruptly stop or block way of others.
• Use only designated restrooms. Queue respectfully.
• Stay on the designated course and refrain from taking shortcuts; such runners will be disqualified from the event. 
• Use headphones responsibly – keep volume low enough to hear instructions and emergencies.

Post Your Finish

• Keep moving after you finish. Don’t stop suddenly at the finish line, as it is medically not advised. 
• After finishing, continue moving forward. Do not stop at the finish line for photographs or to wait for others, as it impacts the finish experience of fellow runners. 
• Collect medals, water, refreshments and your bag (where applicable) as directed – we understand you are tired but a little patience will help the process.

Respect & Sportsmanship

• Encourage fellow runners – a word of support goes a long way.
• Encourage & Appreciate – Cheer fellow runners, and acknowledge the contribution of volunteers and medical teams.
• Respect Others: Maintain courtesy toward fellow runners, volunteers, officials, and spectators. Unsportsmanlike behavior, abusive language, or aggressive conduct will not be tolerated.
• Be inclusive and patient – everyone is running their own race.
• Respect the Host City: Treat local communities, cultural sites, and the environment with care and consideration.

Health & Safety

• As a runner you have a responsibility to take care of your health, fitness and nutrition to support your running performance and overall well-being.
• Train Responsibly: Trust you have followed a consistent training plan that includes a mix of running workouts, strength training, and yoga.
• Proper Nutrition: Eat a balanced dinner that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Medical Advisory: Go through the medical advisory on the event website well before you come on race day. 
  • You are strongly advised to consult your personal physician before participating in the TCS World 10K Bengaluru – only a doctor who is familiar with your unique medical history, current health status, medications, and pre-existing risk factors, can provide guidance on your suitability for training and participation. 
  • Do not skip your morning medications, unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
• Listen to Your Body: If you feel unwell, seek medical assistance immediately.
• Medical Support: Cooperate fully with medics, marshals, and emergency personnel.  
  Preparation: Warm up adequately and remain adequately hydrated during your training and throughout the race – do not over-hydrate nor under-hydrate.
• Help others – when you see a fellow runner in distress or for any other emergency, reach out to your nearest volunteer and immediately call the event helpline +91 8527276694. Clearly state..
  • bib number of person in distress, 
  • location of incident and 
  • state of the person in distress (to the best of your knowledge).

Sustainability Commitment

• Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
• Hydration: Carry a personal reusable bottle/hydration pack where possible and use refill stations.
• Choose Green Transport: Travel sustainably, use public transport, carpool, cycle, or walk.
• Dispose trash responsibly – in bins kept near every facility station on route and within the grounds. 
• Be A Green Champion: Lead by example and encourage others to embrace sustainable practices.

Remember, running is not just about speed — it’s about respect, responsibility, and community. Together, let’s make TCS World 10K Bengaluru a celebration of sport, sustainability, and solidarity.

PAST GREEN INITIATIVES: