Mikkeli-Jukola 2025 will bring nearly 20,000 orienteers into the forests surrounding the Tikkala competition centre. The organisers want to remind all participants and spectators to respect nature – and especially that used energy gel packs must not be left behind in the terrain.
Gel packs are small but problematic. They are made of thin plastic that does not biodegrade and can remain in the forest for decades. Littering is not only an environmental issue but also a reputational one for the entire sport. Orienteering is based on moving through nature – and respecting it.
Stronger Communication and Concrete Actions
Mikkeli-Jukola is committed to environmental awareness. Reminders about gel packs and litter will be included in race information, on social media, and throughout the event area. There will be plenty of recycling stations, and volunteers will check the terrain after the event.
Every orienteer can easily carry an empty gel pack in their pocket. It’s a small effort compared to the harm even one piece of plastic waste can cause to animals or the environment. We hope this message reaches every event participant. Each orienteer can play a part in keeping the forest clean for future generations.
Mikkeli-Jukola takes place on 14–15 June 2025. The event is expected to attract around 50,000 participants and spectators from Finland and abroad.
A Gel Pack Doesn’t Belong in the Forest!
🔹 Gel packs contain plastic that doesn’t biodegrade – even one can remain in nature for decades.
🔹 Take your used gel pack with you to the finish or a waste station – don’t drop it in the forest!
🔹 Respect for nature is part of an orienteer’s ethics.
🔹 Every choice matters – let’s make this a litter-free Jukola!