06:30, 26 July 2024
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
It’s good to see sustainability on a lot of corporation’s minds, and the Paris 2024 Olympics is about to set the new standard for international sport.
This year’s Olympics is already being dubbed the “Greenest Games ever” and as the opening ceremony is creeping up on us, we want to give a run down on all the eco-conscious plans that have been put into motion.
The Paris Olympics is focusing on constructing venues that are designed with sustainability in mind, utilising eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies to reduce their environmental impact. Organisers of the games have confirmed using a mix of pre-existing and temporary buildings to host the sports. Any new structures are being built with low carbon techniques and local materials. An example of this is the aquatics centre, which is intended to serve the Seine-Saint-Denis surrounding communities post-Games, and will be fitted with solar panels on the rooftop. The official website also states that the interior fittings and seeing are also made from recycled materials.
By offsetting their carbon emissions, Paris 2024 aims to be net zero using the ARO approach - avoid, reduce, offset. Windmills in Normandy have already been set up to produce 100% green energy during the games and, as mentioned before, buildings have been fitted with solar panels. Even if Paris 2024, does not reach carbon neutrality as they are aiming for, their environmental impact for this plan would be monumental.
The Paris Olympics is taking waste management to massive heights with implementing comprehensive waste management strategies. It has already been reported that the games will be reusing all 100,000 plates needed for the Olympic Village, which will be used by events management specialist Sodexo Live! after the Games, as will other equipment and catering infrastructure, in addition to cutting the use of single-use plastic. Their efforts don’t stop there as they have adopted more responsible food production methods with plans to increase the quantity of vegetables and vegetable protein in meals to reduce the carbon footprint by half.
Recognising the role transport will play during the games and Paris 2024’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions, they have taken a pro-public transportation. By encouraging participants and attendees to utilise mass transit systems and reducing the reliance on individual vehicles will help drastically. Additionally, the implementation of cycling infrastructure not only provides a green and healthy alternative mode of transportation but also contributes to reducing traffic congestion and air pollution in the city.
This is a big one as it is at the heart of all the planning for the games. Safeguarding of natural spaces will be an utmost priority. They will also be ensuring the restoration of natural habitats and encouraging athletes and spectators to partake in sustainable behaviours while on the grounds.
To read more about the plans set out by the Olympics, read here.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Soil Association. This charity is focused on the effect of agriculture on the environment. They campaign for local purchasing, public education on nutrition and certification of organic foods, and against intensive farming. Find out more.
The WildLife Trusts. This is a charity body composed of 46 regional wildlife trusts. Together they work to look after nature reserves and protect wildlife across the UK. Find out more here.
Ash Den. This charity has the goal to accelerate transformative climate solutions and build a more just world, specifically working in the UK and Global South. Support them here.
