The Paris 2024 Olympics has announced a significant achievement: reducing carbon emissions by more than half compared to recent Games. Organizers revealed that the event generated 1.44 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, a 54.6% drop from the emissions recorded in London 2012 and Rio 2016.
From the outset, sustainability was at the heart of Paris 2024’s planning. By incorporating carbon budgets into the event’s organization, measures to cut emissions were implemented early on. This included constructing only one new competition venue and utilizing existing facilities for the rest.
Innovative approaches were adopted to minimize the carbon footprint. The Olympic cauldron, traditionally a massive source of emissions, used electricity and LED lights to simulate flames, making it 300 times less polluting than if it had burned gas. The medals awarded to athletes were crafted using recycled materials, including pieces of the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Energy consumption was another focal point. An impressive 98.4% of the Games’ energy needs were met by electricity sourced from solar and wind power, thanks to a partnership with energy supplier EDF. Furthermore, 40% of the food offered to spectators was plant-based, reducing the carbon impact associated with meat production.
However, transportation emerged as a bigger challenge than anticipated. While initial estimates suggested that travel would account for about one-third of the carbon footprint, it ultimately made up 53%. The high attendance, with over 12 million tickets sold and international spectators from countries like the United States, Brazil, and Canada, contributed significantly to this increase.
To address the remaining emissions, organizers are investing over 12 million euros in global projects aimed at environmental conservation and sustainability. These initiatives include providing cleaner cooking stoves and water access in African countries, supporting solar energy projects in Senegal and Vietnam, and promoting reforestation efforts in Guatemala, Kenya, Senegal, and France.
Paris 2024’s commitment to sustainability demonstrates how large-scale events can take proactive steps to reduce their environmental impact, setting a new standard for future international gatherings.
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Paris 2024 organizers claim event far less polluting than recent Games
cgtn.com
