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New Project Based on Community Running: Connecting Running, Science, and Sustainability

Kilian Jornet Fundation
October 17, 2024
Kilian Jornet Fundation
October 17, 2024

This initiative, based on community running, combines the passion for running and the love for nature, with the curiosity of science and sustainability topics.

The Kilian Jornet Foundation has launched a new project based on community running, an innovative initiative that combines a passion for running with curiosity for science and environmental awareness. Supported by NNormal and UpClear, this project aims to inspire communities through community runs that not only promote a healthy lifestyle but also emphasize the importance of environmental preservation and the science behind current sustainability challenges.

This project offers a new way to interact with nature while running. During these events, participants have the opportunity to learn from experts on local environmental topics, directly connecting with science and researchers working to protect the natural spaces around us. Thus, each run becomes a space to share knowledge and deepen our relationship with nature.

Latest Event: Barcelona with ISGlobal and Eixample Respira

On September 28, 2024, together with ITINERARI, we organized a new Community Run in Barcelona in collaboration with ISGlobal research center and Eixample Respira, focused on sustainable urban planning. The race itinerary began in Poblenou, where participants learned about the transition of this industrial neighborhood toward a more pedestrian-friendly environment. There was a stop to explore Barcelona’s famous superblocks, an innovative traffic reduction model aimed at improving air quality and creating green spaces.

Runners also passed through Forum, a smart urban planning space designed to avoid overcrowding and promote open spaces. Throughout the route, enriching discussions were held on the importance of green spaces, the impact of pollution on health, and how urban design can transform cities like Barcelona into more sustainable and healthier places to live.

After the run, we enjoyed a community breakfast where the topics addressed during the event continued to be discussed, creating an informal space to share ideas and future proposals.

Talking to ISGlobal and Eixample Respira

What are the main impacts of air and noise pollution on the health of urban citizens? ISGlobal: Air and noise pollution are the two biggest environmental health challenges facing European cities today. There is extensive evidence showing that air pollution affects all organs in our bodies throughout our lives. One of the most significant impacts is on the cardiovascular system, leading to serious health issues. Alarmingly, over 300,000 premature deaths occur in Europe each year due to air pollution. Fortunately, on October 14th, the Council of the European Union formally adopted the revised Ambient Air Quality Directive, a crucial step in combating pollution across Europe. Noise pollution, on the other hand, is often underestimated. It contributes to premature mortality and is linked to various illnesses, not only because of its direct impact but also due to the stress and annoyance it causes. This chronic exposure can lead to immune-related diseases like diabetes. It’s a growing health concern that requires more attention.

How can cities like Barcelona reduce the impact of urban heat and pollution and improve public health? ISGlobal: A significant portion of our health is determined by factors beyond healthcare systems and genetics. Social, economic, and environmental factors (especially the physical environment) account for about 23% of our health outcomes. The design of our cities plays a critical role. Whether cities have abundant green spaces, how densely they are built, and the types of mobility systems in place – these all profoundly affect public health. By understanding the impact of urban design, city planning becomes a key tool for improving public health. Increasing green mobility options and expanding green spaces are essential. It’s vital to recognize that the way we design our cities can either enhance or harm our health on a daily basis.

How important are sustainable and healthy cities in the context of climate change and projected urban growth by 2050? ISGlobal: The climate crisis is fundamentally a public health crisis. While the planet is under threat, so too are the billions of people living in cities. Climate and health go hand in hand: in 75% of cases, the causes of climate change are the same as those of air pollution. Addressing these issues at the source, particularly through the energy we use, is essential. The energy transition must be as sustainable as possible. Recently, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) environment chief emphasized that low-emission zones in cities are crucial for improving public health. As urban populations grow, especially with projections for 2050, ensuring cities are sustainable and healthy is critical for mitigating the impact of climate change on human health.

How does ISGlobal work to drive changes in urban planning and development? ISGlobal: At ISGlobal, our goal is to translate scientific evidence into policy and societal change. Through our Urban Planning, Environment, and Health initiative, we engage with various communities and make research accessible to a wider audience. We use platforms like blogs, educational videos, public talks, and even collaborate with schools to spread awareness about the importance of healthy urban planning. Cities are complex systems, and addressing their challenges requires a multidisciplinary approach. We need collaboration between urban planners, transport officials, public health experts, and city leaders.

“One of the most pressing changes we advocate for is rethinking urban mobility. We need to shift away from motorized transport and reallocate public spaces for healthier uses, such as green areas and nature that are accessible to everyone” – Carolyn Daher, ISGlobal

Pictures by: Mark Adamson

What are the main goals of your platform to improve air quality in the Eixample (and Barcelona)? Eixample Respira: Eixample Respira is a platform made up of residents concerned about the impact of poor air quality on health, both in the Eixample district and across the city. We are also concerned about other issues such as noise, the lack of green spaces, the unequal distribution of public space, and road safety. Reducing car and motorcycle traffic is key to addressing all these issues and improving the health and quality of life of citizens.

How do high traffic levels affect the health of Eixample residents? Is there any initiative currently to reduce traffic in the busiest streets? Eixample Respira: Researchers estimate that 2,000 deaths occur each year in Barcelona due to air pollution. But the problem goes beyond that: pollution causes numerous diseases and worsens people’s well-being and quality of life. Moreover, constant noise also affects mental health, the lack of green spaces deprives people of important health benefits, and the presence of vehicles contributes to a high number of traffic accidents and a sense of insecurity. This impact is especially serious for the most vulnerable populations: children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health problems. It’s worth noting that private vehicles, although used by a minority of the population compared to public transport or walking, have a disproportionately large impact on the lives of residents.

What are the benefits of superblocks and green areas for the health and well-being of residents? Eixample Respira: Green areas are a great opportunity to return public space to people, create more green areas, and provide spaces for walking. However, they have been implemented on streets with little traffic, limiting their potential to significantly improve air quality. Still, they are a positive step in transforming the city into a more livable and healthy place.

What do you think should be the priority for improving green and public spaces in the city? Eixample Respira: The priority should be reducing reliance on private vehicles and decreasing the number of cars and motorcycles occupying public space. This would promote active mobility, freeing up large areas that could be dedicated to green spaces and seating areas. Green spaces should be everywhere, integrated into people’s daily lives, and not concentrated in specific areas or treated as occasional destinations.

What role can events like the Community Run play in raising awareness about air quality and sustainable urban planning? Eixample Respira: These types of events are an excellent opportunity to connect with people who, despite having some awareness of these issues, are not usually directly exposed to our arguments and demands. Moreover, they help generate collective awareness and add more voices in favor of a more sustainable and healthier city model.

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