The Summer Olympics are one of the biggest sporting events in the world. So, how are the Paris Olympics striving to be a greener event?
Firstly, Paris 2024 has scaled back the use of resources significantly. They have reduced the number of furniture items that they require to run the games. Paris has reduced it by 25%, down from 800,000, and they are prioritising leasing or access rather than buying, for 90% of items.
Furthermore, they have committed to halving the amount of CO2 emissions compared to London 2012 and Rio 2016, i.e. 3.5 million tonnes of CO2. They aim to achieve this by favouring rental over purchase, using renewable energy sources, building a single competition venue and doubling the amount of plant-based foods in meals. 95% of all venues are existing sites or just temporary facilities.
Over the course of the games, Paris 2024 will serve over 13 million meals. So how are these going to be more sustainable?
Paris 2024 has a number of methods that they will use. First is aiming for 100% certified food, which includes 80% French origin products, 30% organic products, and 25% within 250km of the venues. Another methods that they will use is recycling uneaten food so that none of it is wasted. These will all contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of the games.
Overall, Paris 2024 has committed to some significant goals that I hope they will stick to and honour. I look forward to seeing the rest of the games!
