Tons of plastic are released into the river while totally ignoring the environmental impact for a simple and curious game

Charity sporting events are very common and successful. From boxing matches to professional soccer matches, many organizations and celebrities hold fundraising activities to help various NGOs and institutions. However, if we think of a charity race, we would never think of including ducks as participants.

Except in Luxembourg. On April 26, 2025, the small country held the 24th edition of the Duck Race, a race along the Alzette River in Luxembourg City in which the athletes are no less than 20,000 rubber ducks, according to the Italian media outlet GreenMe.

The traditional event, which was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and Mayor Lydie Polfer, aims to raise money for various charities, such as Pharmacists Without Borders, Aid Benin, Study-Help ASBL, and Asha 4 Children.

With a €5 pledge, viewers have the chance to sponsor a duck and win several different prizes, including a brand-new Volkswagen Polo, an outdoor kitchen valued at €6,500, and even a Cannondale electric bike, estimated to cost €2,700.

Environmental Impact

Despite seemingly being an innocent event, many organizations and individuals have expressed deep concern about the environmental impact of the race.

The release of tons of plastic into the Alzette River could gradually deteriorate the water and, according to some critics, send the wrong message about respect for the environment and the importance of recycling.

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Eldoradio, the event’s organizer, has defended itself by asserting that the race is carbon-neutral by participating in an emissions-offsetting project. It also maintains that the Duck Race is part of the “AntiGaspi” initiative, which fights against food waste.

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