Since 1979, Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE has taken place in the heart of an exceptional natural site, crossing the Calanques National Park for nearly 12 kilometers. This unique route, between the sea and the scrubland (garrigue), offers runners a stunning backdrop that has become, over the years, one of the cornerstones of the event's reputation and image.
Against a backdrop of growing collective awareness of environmental issues, Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE is advancing its responsibility initiative by conducting an in-depth review of its practices.
In 2025, Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE is strengthening its environmental commitment by launching a dedicated audit, the first step toward a long-term sustainable action plan. This approach builds upon previous responsible initiatives and new measures introduced this year. These represent concrete actions to limit the event's impact: waste sorting, responsible purchasing, adapted transportation, raising awareness and promoting the "eco-responsible runner," and new hydration facilities to support runners along the course.
Photo : © Guillaume Ruoppolo
To preserve its environment, Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE has implemented numerous responsible actions over several years, such as reinforced cleanliness zones, recyclable race bibs, gear bags made from seaweed, and transport services promoting sustainable mobility. Furthermore, the event uses 100% electric lead vehicles and conducts ongoing awareness campaigns for runners.
In addition to these initiatives, new hydration facilities are being introduced this year to support runners while aiming to progressively reduce the use of plastic bottles.
As part of a pilot program supported by the City of Marseille to limit the use of plastic bottles during the race, the organizers will install a drinking water tank at the third refreshment station to fill eco-cups.
Thanks to the Aix-Marseille-Provence Metropolis and the participation of the Société des Eaux de Marseille, a water station (refill ramp) will also be installed around the 7th kilometer, as well as at the finish line, to allow runners to refill their personal hydration systems.
Supporting the volunteers mobilized at the refreshment stations, the organizers also call upon the association AVIE. This environmental organization provides additional cleanup efforts, collecting bottles and waste along the course.
Non-exhaustive list of actions implemented by the organizers in recent years:
Beyond the sporting challenge and the popular celebration, every runner is invited to respect the playground offered to them. By signing the Runner’s Charter, you are taking part in a collective commitment to environmental responsibility.
This charter encourages the adoption of simple yet essential actions and embodies a shared ambition: to make Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE a truly sustainable event.
Every action counts. Every stride can make a difference.
Together, let’s take on the challenge of making this race more responsible than ever.
In a world where sport and environmental commitment increasingly intersect, the Cleanup Bibs initiative, launched for the 2025 edition of Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE, stands as a pioneer. This original operation allowed 215 runners to earn their race entry by collecting waste, turning their commitment to the environment into concrete action. By registering for a field action via the official website cleanupdossards.fr, these "Cleanup Runners" were given a second chance to participate in the event after regular registration had closed. This unique and dedicated way to experience Marseille-Cassis - AG2R La Mondiale will be symbolically marked by the wearing of a green bib.
To support this initiative, a dedicated application was developed. Through the "Clean Challenge" app, participants were able to document their cleaning activities by uploading photos of the waste they collected.
This tool, which also identifies and quantifies the types of waste found, enabled 230 people, participating individually or through their companies, to take part in three "Cleanup Challenge" sessions. These collection phases were organized via the app in connection with Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE. Their collective effort resulted in the collection of 1,037 kilograms of waste, representing more than a metric ton.
By integrating an additional ecological dimension through this initiative, Marseille-Cassis - AG2R LA MONDIALE raises awareness among participants about preserving the natural spaces that surround us, much like the Calanques National Park. The Cleanup Bibs embody the symbol of conscious, active, and united runners.
A COMMITTED AMBASSADOR
Pierre-Ambroise Bosse, the 800-meter World Champion who has frequently shared his commitment to the environment in recent years, will serve as the ambassador for this inaugural Cleanup Bibs initiative. He will take part in the race wearing a green bib, joining the 215 other mobilized runners.
Photo : © Jean-Luc Juvin
