How would you like to run a marathon, and then wake up the next morning and do it again? Now imagine doing that for a year.

Matt Hill and Stephanie Tait are two Canadians doing just that. Since they left Vancouver on May 4th, 2008 they have run 15,667 km (9,735 miles) across Canada to Newfoundland, down the Eastern seaboard to Florida and west across the southern states to California. They are now running amidst rolling green mountains north of Santa Barbara County, and in another 2,000+ kilometres they will be back in Vancouver.

They are an inspirational duo, and not just because of their determination and athletic prowess. Their journey, Run for One Planet, grew out of a desire to protect our planet by promoting sustainable living. Since beginning, they have spoken at hundreds of schools and public events reminding people that “small steps add up” and offering tips to lessen our footprint. So far they’ve inspired people to commit to 16,385 environmental actions, which include deeds like eating locally, eliminating plastic bags and turning off your lights. They’ve also raised $81,450 for their Legacy of Action charity, which is partnered with the Vancouver Foundation and aims to help kids create their own environmental initiatives by offering education and grants.

We first met Matt and Steph in Vancouver when we completed our human-powered circumnavigation, and shortly afterwards heard about their dream to run for environmental awareness. It was a huge leap from Matt’s job acting (he’s Raphael in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III) and Steph’s career coaching young business owners, but they are hard workers and their dedication and tenacity has carried them forward. They’re now on the home stretch of an incredible achievement and will be back in Vancouver on May 8th 2009. To celebrate the journey’s end with them, find out more about their expedition or invite them to speak at a school check out their website.

For more information on Run For One Planet visit:  www.runforoneplanet.com