La Vuelta a España slashes plastic bottle use by 95%

La Vuelta a España is making significant strides in sustainability, drastically cutting its plastic bottle usage. Since 2021, the race has reduced plastic bottle consumption by an impressive 95%, equating to 128,000 fewer containers. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to environmental responsibility.

The organization highlighted its sustainability efforts, noting that in the previous edition, 114 recycling points were established, and 1,000 native trees were planted to aid in reforestation efforts in areas affected by fires. Furthermore, the race has engaged over 250,000 children through its La Vuelta Junior program and donated more than 60,000 euros to various charities.

The 81st edition of La Vuelta a España is set to commence on August 22 with an individual time trial in Monaco. The race will traverse France and Andorra before entering Spain, concluding on September 13 in Granada. The route is anticipated to be one of the most demanding in recent years, featuring seven uphill finishes, two individual time trials, and covering a total distance of 3,308.5 kilometers across 21 stages.

Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogačar, fresh off his fifth Tour de France victory, is a strong favorite to win La Vuelta, a race he hasn't participated in for seven years. He aims to conquer the only Grand Tour missing from his impressive palmarès. Additionally, the entire fleet supporting the cyclists, covering the 3,308.5 kilometers, will consist of plug-in hybrid vehicles provided by Skoda, further underscoring the race's commitment to sustainability.