Plogging Towards Progress

Nearly 5 years ago, the seeds of change were planted in the fertile grounds of Spain, marking the inception of The Ad Plain . This wasn't just the beginning of another chapter in the global expansion of TAP; it was the dawn of a movement aimed at redefining the essence of community, sustainability, and business as a force for good in the agrifood sector.

As we embarked on this journey, our mission was clear: to build a community of experts and like-minded individuals passionate about leveraging business as a catalyst for environmental and social change.

Our affiliation with B Corp ( B Lab Spain ) served as a beacon, drawing together individuals and organizations that shared our vision. It was a partnership that not only validated our commitment to higher standards of purpose, social responsibility, and sustainability but also expanded our network of collaborators. This synergy sparked a series of initiatives aimed at fostering a more sustainable and equitable world, and we are trying to show that this #BCorpMonth https://www.bcorpmonth.com/

I like to think, that inspired by the concept of plogging—jogging while picking up rubbish—I discovered a profound metaphor for mental health and personal growth, so just as we care for our environment by removing the rubbish that tarnishes its beauty, we must also tend to our minds, discarding the toxic thoughts that hinder our inner peace and potential.

Running, for me, became more than a physical exercise; it evolved into an act of mental plogging. Each stride through the scenic trails and the vibrant communities of Madrid symbolised a step towards resilience, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with nature. The rhythmic patter of my footsteps became a meditative practice, clearing my mind of clutter, allowing me to reflect, rejuvenate, and realign with my core values.

This journey of physical and mental fortitude was not solitary. Joining running clubs and participating in plogging events in Madrid fostered a sense of community and shared purpose. Together, we were not just runners; we were guardians of our trails, advocates for mental health, and pioneers of a movement that intertwined physical wellness with environmental stewardship.

As we continue to plog—both physically and mentally—we reaffirm our commitment to being forces for good, for our planet, our communities, and ourselves. From TAP, we are eager to spread this spirit of collective empowerment and environmental stewardship through our Strava Plogging Running Club (https://www.strava.com/clubs/TAP-into-plogging), inviting individuals from all walks of life to join us in this transformative journey.

Together, we not only aim to clean our trails but also to clear our minds, fostering a global community united by the shared goals of sustainability, mental wellness, and social impact.

So, as I reflect on this journey, a quote by David Goggins resonates deeply, encapsulating the essence of our endeavor: "The most important conversation is the one you have with yourself. You must be quiet, be outdoors, and find out the real you." This statement is a testament to the transformative power of running and plogging that from TAP we try to share with everyone joining our STRAVA, not just as activities, but as vehicles for self-discovery, environmental responsibility, and community building.