350 refers to the recommended parts per million of carbon in the atmosphere that scientists believe is de rigueur for the Earth’s sustainability as we know it. Today, this number is around 400ppm. We have hit a climate milestone, as this is the first time in 800,000 years that the level hit 400ppm.
In recent years, more focus has been placed on the pressing issue of climate change as the globe starts seeing its tangible effects. One run aims to take the awareness to another level by inspiring Singaporeans to take action now. NTUC Income RUN 350, organised by Young NTUC, encourages participants to Run For A Greener Future, and is introducing more green initiatives in 2016 to educate and harness the strength of the masses to do our part to combat climate change.
Here are 3 reasons to join NTUC Income RUN 350 2016:
1. Gather with Singapore’s active community for a joint effort for a greener future.
In the last century, Carbon Dioxide (CO2) levels have increased at an alarming rate from decade to decade,we need to reduce our emissions and take climate action before more damage is done to our planet. RUN 350 incorporates green practices in organising this run which includes encouraging runners to bring their own water bottle, going paperless by not printing confirmation slip, using recycled metals for its medals and waste recycling.
One key initiatives during the event is the Utility Challenge. To take part, registrants simply need to bring along a copy of their most recent utility bill when collecting their race pack. Those whose bill reflects usage that is under the national average for their household type will receive a cash voucher from NTUC FairPrice, limited to the first 1,000 participants.
2. New category – Fun On Wheels
This is an initiative to increase awareness that everyone can do their part to reduce carbon emissions and that includes taking environmentally friendly transport options. Participants of this category will cycle, in-line skate or kick-scoot through a 4km route, showcasing the ease and availability of environmentally friendly transport options. This can be a great way to educate young kids on environmentally friendly transport options and let them know how they are helping to make the environment a better place.
3. Do our little part for the home we live in
Even though we may not see the effects of climate change or environmental problems directly in an urban city, it does not mean that we can turn a blind eye to climate and environmental issues. We have seen how forest fires in neighbouring countries gave us haze the past few years, while Beijing had its air pollution problems throughout the year and Australia had its forest fires to worry about. Singapore may be a small country, and can affect limited change over what happens all over the world. But every little effort counts and we can all do our part to make earth a better place to live in for ourselves and our future generations.
