The Paris 2024 Olympics stood out as the most sustainable edition of the Olympic Games. With the aim of significantly reducing environmental impact, the organization has implemented a series of innovative measures that have transformed the way major sporting events are planned and executed. Let's take a look back at the main initiatives that made this possible.
Use of Recycled Materials and Circular Economy
One of the most notable initiatives of the 2024 Paris Olympics was the use of recycled materials. The award podiums were made from recycled plastic, which, after the Games, were reused in new projects. In addition, 11,000 seats were made from recycled plastics. This approach not only reduced the amount of wastebut also promoted the circular economywhere materials were continually reused rather than discarded. In addition to influencing this sustainability practice to be replicated at other events.
Renewable Energy: A Commitment to the Future
The organizers of the Paris 2024 Games have signed an agreement with the local utility company to ensure that the energy used during the event will be 100% from renewable sourcesThe Games will be powered by wind and solar energy. This measure was crucial to achieving the goal of emitting less than half the greenhouse gases compared to the London 2012 Games. In addition cleaning up the River Seine and the installation of solar panels in several facilities were concrete examples of this commitment.
Sustainable Infrastructure
The Games infrastructure was also carefully planned to be as sustainable as possible. Around 95% of the competition venues have been existing buildingss or temporary structures, minimizing the need for new construction. The Olympic Village, for example, was not air-conditioned, a decision aimed at saving energy and reducing carbon emissions. The new buildings were built with less cement and more wood, as well as having solar panels and vegetation on the roofs, helping to reduce the event's carbon footprint.
Sustainable Mobility
In order to facilitate the transportation of spectators and athletes in an environmentally friendly way, Paris 2024 has invested in the creation of new cycle paths and the extension of train lines. Diesel generators were eliminated, replaced by more sustainable alternatives. These actions have not only reduced carbon emissions, but also promoted healthier and greener modes of transportation.
Conscious Eating
Food during the Games was also planned with sustainability in mind. The menu of meals offered was predominantly plant-based, reducing the consumption of meat, which has a significantly higher carbon footprint. This measure not only helped to reduce emissions, but also promoted healthier and more conscious eating habits among athletes and spectators.
Reforestation and Green Legacy
The sustainable legacy of the Paris 2024 Games goes beyond the host city. O Brazilian Olympic Committee (COB) launched the Brazil's Olympic Forestfor the reforestation of approximately 6.3 hectares of forest in riverside, indigenous and quilombola communities in the Amazonas. This initiative was an example of how the Games can leave a lasting positive impact on the environment and local communities.
Engagement and Awareness
In addition to practical measures, the Paris Olympics 2024 has also focused on raising awareness about the importance of sustainability. The organization believes that by promoting these initiatives during a high-profile event, it can inspire millions of people around the world to adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives.
Paris 2024 stood out as a model of sustainability for future sporting events. With a firm commitment to reducing emissions, reusing materials and promoting ecological practices, the organization demonstrated that it was possible to hold a large-scale event in a responsible and conscious manner. The measures implemented not only benefited the environment, but also served as a powerful example for other cities and organizations around the world.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games were not only a celebration of sport, but also a milestone in the fight to preserve our planet. This edition of the Games has left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations to continue working towards a more sustainable world.
Sources:
International Olympic Committee (IOC) sustainability reports
Exame - Paris 2024 promises to be the most sustainable Olympic Games in history
Official documents from the organization of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
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