With the effects of climate change becoming more noticeable year by year, many businesses and organisations are looking to implement 'green' practices, and running is no exception. Perhaps the frontrunner in this field is the Greater Hartford Marathon, in New England, which takes place in October and attracts about 6,000 competitors.

It features 100% organic race food (the best food in North America, says Ultimate Guide to Marathons), reusable water bottles, fuel cell cars and buses for transportation and lead vehicles, and more environmentally friendly stuff besides. The race director, Beth Shluger, says they are aiming to become "The Healthiest Marathon on the Planet". It looks like a pretty scenic marathon to run too, through old country roads and gardens before ending up by the river.