Our Rings of Fire II report breaks down the impacts of climate change on the Olympics, especially the dangers of extreme heat to athletes and spectators.
It is our sincere hope that all the appropriate safeguards to protect the wellbeing of competitors and fans are in place, and BASIS wishes all athletes well ahead of what promises to be a magnificent spectacle at the heart of our sporting summer.
As the world gears up for the greatest show on earth, we take a look at the steps being taken by the Paris 2024 Organising Committee to fulfil their ambition of making the 33rd Olympiad the greenest games ever.
1. Carbon Budgets
Hosted in same city as the 2015 Global Climate Accords, the 2024 Olympics aspires to be the first Games ever to be fully aligned with Paris Agreement.
Organised have promised to cut emissions by more than 50% in comparison to previous hosts including London and Rio, with carbon budgeting covering everything from energy and buildings to transport and food.
The Games’ energy needs will be met by renewables, rather than fossil fuels, with large scale deployment of biofuels and batteries, and the need for generators is being reduced by ensuring competition venues are connected to the grid.
2. Circular Economy
Unlike previous Games which have involved huge, energy intensive new constructions, 95% of the Paris Olympic Games’ competition venues are either pre-existing, or temporary buildings.
For new builds, like the solar-powered Aquatics Centre, low-carbon methods were prioritised and materials like recycled plastic and wood used for construction.
Most temporary equipment – including 75% of electrical and sporting equipment and 100% of tents and stands – is being hired rather than purchased.
3. Sustainable Transport
With over 80% of the competition venues within 10km of the Olympic Village, travel times for athletes and participants are minimal. The Paris 2024 Games are using the city’s extensive public transport network to keep travel emissions low, and they’ve added over 400km of new bike lanes.
The vehicle fleet for the Games will include electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered vehicles, further cutting emissions. Most people will still fly to France for the Games, but their carbon footprint from travel while in Paris will be much lower.
4. Sustainable Food
The 2024 Games plans to cut the carbon cost of meals in half for athletes, administrators, workers and spectators by doubling the number of plant-based options, and sourcing 80% of ingredients locally. This approach aims to support local farmers and reduce food miles and emissions.
They’re also looking to minimise food waste by estimating quantities better, redistributing leftovers, and composting.
5. Community Legacy
Paris 2024 is focused on giving back to the local community. After the Games, the Olympic Village will become a thriving residential and business area, offering homes to 6,000 people and jobs for another 6,000.
This will include new public housing and affordable rentals, plus shops and restaurants to boost the local economy – although water quality in the River Seine remains a controversial issue despite attempts to accelerate efforts to clean it up.
Final Word
Delivering an event on the scale of the Olympics in a fully sustainable way is basically impossible, but Paris 2024, aims to set a new standard. The measures outlined will not eliminate the environmental impact of the Games, but if they’re implemented and measured properly it will create a strong foundation for Los Angeles to build on in 2028.
