Paris 2024: The Greenest Olympics Yet!

Published on Aug 12, 2024

Throughout the sporting spectacular of the Paris Olympics it was impossible not to get caught up with the emotions of watching the teams and individual excellence on show. It has been superb!

As with other major recent sporting events, these Games have ambitious sustainability goals. With a commitment to being the greenest Games in history, Paris 2024 is setting a new benchmark for future international events. Here’s a quick look at how they plan to achieve these golden aspirations.

Carbon Emissions Reduction

One of the cornerstone goals for Paris 2024 is to halve the carbon footprint of the Games compared to previous editions. This translates to a target of around 1.75 million tonnes of CO2 emissions, down from the 3.5 million tonne average seen in past Summer Olympics. Such a reduction is a bold move, especially considering the scale and complexity of the event.

Renewable Energy and Low-Carbon Infrastructure

To support this reduction, Paris 2024 will utilise 100% renewable energy throughout the Games. Impressively, 95% of the venues will be either existing or temporary structures. The only new venue, the Aquatics Centre, is designed with sustainability at its core, featuring solar power and sustainable building materials. This approach minimises the environmental impact while still providing state-of-the-art facilities.

Sustainable Transportation

Transportation is another critical area where Paris 2024 is making strides. By minimising the use of diesel generators and opting for biofuel or battery-powered alternatives, the Games aim to further reduce their carbon footprint. All venues will be connected to the electrical grid, avoiding the need for temporary, less efficient energy solutions.

Circular Economy

Paris 2024 has devised a comprehensive strategy to reduce, rent, and reuse resources. For instance, the amount of furniture has been reduced from 800,000 items to 600,000 and 75% of the sports equipment and electronic devices will be rented or provided by sports federations. Additionally, 90% of the assets used during the Games are planned to be repurposed afterward. This approach not only reduces waste but also sets a precedent for future large-scale events.

Food Sustainability

Food sustainability is a standout feature of the Paris 2024 Games. The organisers have pledged to double the proportion of plant-based meals and source 80% of ingredients locally. This initiative aims to halve the carbon footprint of the meals served during the Games compared to typical French meals.

Social and Environmental Legacy

Perhaps the most significant impact of the Paris 2024 Games will be felt long after the closing ceremony. The Olympic Village is set to transform into a sustainable residential and business district, providing homes and workplaces for thousands of people. Additionally, huge efforts and costs have been made to clean up the River Seine, but as we see with delays to the triathlon, there's no easy fix.

A Model for Future Games

Paris 2024's sustainability initiatives are not just about setting records but about creating a lasting legacy. By aligning with the Paris Agreement on climate change and focusing on long-term community benefits, the Games are poised to set a new standard for international sporting events.

As the world watches, Paris 2024 will demonstrate how large-scale events can be both spectacular and responsible. Here's hoping these initiatives inspire not only future host cities but also our local sporting communities to embrace sustainability with the same aspirations and commitment.

For more detailed information, you can explore the Paris 2024 Legacy and Sustainability Plan and the World Economic Forum's insights.

Paris 2024: The Greenest Olympics Yet!

Published on Aug 12, 2024

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