Paris 2024: The Most Sustainable Olympic Games in History
The most anticipated sporting event in the world assumes unprecedented responsibilities to limit the climate impact of the Olympic Games. Guided by the principles of moderation, innovation and boldness, Paris 2024 is setting a new standard for the delivery of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. With recyclable buildings, eco-friendly transportation and vegetarian meals, the French capital is committed to reducing the Games' carbon footprint.
The goal of Paris 2024 is clear and ambitious: halve the carbon footprint of the Games compared to previous editions. By focusing on all sources of emissions and bringing together all stakeholders, Paris 2024 hopes to demonstrate that another model is possible. Not only does it seek to minimize the impact on the climate, but it also aims to actively contribute to the fight against climate change through projects that generate environmental benefits and offset more of the emissions that the Games themselves generate. This effort extends beyond the duration of the Games, sharing tools and methodologies to accelerate the environmental transition in sport and major events, both before and after 2024.
The goal of Paris 2024 is clear and ambitious: halve the carbon footprint of the Games compared to previous editions.
Model Change: From Post-Games Evaluation to Pre-Games Objectives
For the first time in the history of the Olympic Games, a climate impact monitoring methodology has been defined in advance and fully integrated into overall strategy and operations.
This methodology follows the ARO (Avoid, Reduce and Offset) approach and adds two additional stages: forecasting emissions and mobilizing action by taking advantage of the attractiveness of the Games .
Anticipate : The previous Olympic Games emitted an average of 3.5 million tons of CO2. Paris 2024 has developed a pioneering tool to measure its carbon footprint, guiding decisions from the candidacy phase to the preparation of the event.
Avoid : Using 95% of existing or temporary infrastructure and only building facilities that can be reused after the Games, Paris 2024 organizes an event with greater moderation, reducing its impact on the climate and the environment.
Reduce : Paris 2024 has precisely identified the sources of emissions and proposed specific solutions, such as low-carbon structures and renewable energy. The objective is not to exceed 1.5 million tons of CO2, half the average carbon footprint of previous Games.
Compensation : All non-avoidable emissions will be compensated through projects with environmental and social benefits on the five continents. Paris 2024 also supports climate-friendly projects in France.
Mobilize : Paris 2024 aims to harness the potential of sport for the environmental transition, involving employees, partners, the sports movement and citizens in this process. Has launched "Climate Coach", an app to help reduce your personal and professional carbon footprint.
Construction and Circular Economy
Paris 2024 has adopted the concept of circular economy in the construction of its facilities. 95% of the competition venues already existed or will be temporary. The only built facility, the Aquatic Center, has a sustainable design with recycled materials and a wooden heart. In addition, the apartments in the Olympic Village will be transformed into homes after the Games.
Upcycling is also reflected in sports equipment, of which three quarters will be rented or provided by federations. Athletes will sleep on cardboard box springs and mattresses made from recycled fishing nets, further promoting sustainability.
95% of the competition venues already existed or will be temporary.
Transportation and Energy
Transport also plays a crucial role in the sustainability of Paris 2024. The urban cycle path network has been reinforced with an additional 400 kilometers and the use of 100% renewable energy will be promoted. In addition, generators will be reduced, which will run on biofuel, hydrogen or batteries, thus minimizing the use of single-use plastics and promoting the consumption of tap water.
Sustainable Food
Sustainability will also be present in the food of the Games. 13 million meals will be served with a focus on reducing carbon emissions. The menus will double the proportion of vegetables and expand vegan options, sourcing 80% of ingredients from local production.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Mental health is another fundamental aspect in Paris 2024. The Olympic Village will have spaces dedicated to the emotional well-being of athletes. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has developed a mental care program with kits for athletes and the Calm app to support their daily well-being. In addition, an Artificial Intelligence system has been implemented to identify and eliminate violence on social networks.
The Olympic Village will have spaces dedicated to the emotional well-being of athletes.
Gender equality
Paris 2024 will be historic in terms of gender equality, with parity in the number of male and female participants for the first time in the history of the Olympic Games. In addition, the Paralympic Games medals will include the terms Paris and 2024 in Braille, as a symbol of accessibility.
New Disciplines and Technologies
Breaking will be the new discipline at the Paris Games, and American athletes will debut the new Nike Jam shoes, designed specifically to maximize performance in this discipline. Additionally, the Olympic medals will contain authentic iron fragments from the Eiffel Tower, highlighting the commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.
Paris 2024 not only seeks to be the most spectacular edition of the Olympic Games, but also the most responsible from an economic, social and environmental point of view. With its focus on the circular economy, reducing the carbon footprint, promoting mental wellbeing and gender equality, Paris 2024 sets a new standard for future sporting events globally.
This commitment is reflected in every aspect of the organization, from infrastructure to daily sustainability practices. Paris 2024 will not only leave a lasting mark on society and the environment, but will also inspire future generations to follow the example of responsibility and sustainability.
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