Key Impact Points:
- Paris 2024 aims to halve the carbon footprint of the Games compared to previous editions.
- The Games will showcase innovative solutions in energy, food, venues, transport, and digital services.
- Sustainable practices are integrated across all aspects of planning and operations to create a lasting legacy.
Paris 2024 is set to be the first Olympic Games fully aligned with Olympic Agenda 2020, promising a more sustainable, responsible, and inclusive event. The organizers have laid out an ambitious plan to cut the Games-related carbon footprint by half, utilizing cutting-edge solutions across various sectors. As we celebrate Earth Day 2024, here are five key ways Paris 2024 is striving to achieve more with less, while creating a lasting legacy.
1. Thinking Ahead: Anticipating and Avoiding Impact
- Carbon Footprint Reduction: Paris 2024 committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 50% compared to previous Games, targeting emissions from construction, energy, transport, catering, and procurement.
- Comprehensive Planning: The organizers have proactively calculated the “material footprint” for each venue, mapping required resources and minimizing their lifecycle impact. This meticulous planning covers everything from seating and equipment to infrastructure.
- Innovative Energy Model: The Games will run on 100% renewable energy, with minimal use of diesel generators, which will instead be powered by biofuel, hydrogen, or batteries. All venues will connect to the grid, avoiding temporary energy solutions.
- Biodiversity Consideration: Paris 2024 has developed a unique methodology for analyzing and reducing the Games’ impact on biodiversity, influencing the design of sustainable temporary venues.
2. Reducing, Renting, and Reusing
- Circular Economy Strategy: Paris 2024’s strategy focuses on organizing the Games with fewer resources, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring a second life for assets after the event.
- Use of Existing and Temporary Venues: 95% of competition venues are pre-existing or temporary, with new builds using low-carbon methods.
- Sustainable Construction: The Aquatics Centre, a new build, is designed to serve the community post-Games, featuring solar panels and recycled materials.
- Efficient Resource Management: By encouraging shared use, the Games have reduced the number of furniture items needed from 800,000 to 600,000. Additionally, 75% of sports equipment will be rented, and most electronic equipment will be reused.
3. Regeneration
- Long-term Community Benefits: The Games aim to improve local living conditions, especially in Seine-Saint-Denis, through projects like the Aquatics Centre, which will provide a multi-sport hub post-Games.
- Olympic Village Transformation: Post-Games, the Olympic Village will be converted into a residential and business district, providing homes and jobs for thousands.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Upgrades like underground electricity lines and the redevelopment of the Canal Saint Denis will enhance quality of life.
- Environmental Restoration: Initiatives such as cleaning the River Seine are part of the city’s climate resilience plan, benefiting all Parisians by 2025.
4. Sustainability on the Plate: More Plant-Based, More Local, Less Plastic
- Responsible Catering: Paris 2024 will deliver 13 million meals with half the carbon emissions of an average French meal, focusing on plant-based options and local sourcing.
- Local Sourcing and Waste Reduction: 80% of ingredients will be locally sourced, with strategies in place to minimize food waste through redistribution and composting.
- Reduction in Single-use Plastics: The Games aim to halve single-use plastic in catering, with all equipment to be reused. Coca-Cola will install 700 water and soda fountains, and spectators can bring reusable bottles.
5. Transport: Shorter Distances and Lower Carbon
- Optimized Venue Locations: Over 80% of Olympic venues are within 10km of the Olympic Village, reducing travel time and emissions.
- Public Transport Access: All venues are accessible by public transport, with increased services planned for the Games.
- Eco-friendly Fleet: The Games will feature a fleet of electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered vehicles, reducing vehicle numbers by 40% compared to previous editions.
Conclusion
Paris 2024 is leading the way in sustainability by integrating innovative strategies across all aspects of the Olympic Games. With a focus on reducing carbon emissions, maximizing resource efficiency, and creating long-term community benefits, the Paris 2024 Olympics aim to leave a positive legacy for future generations.
Call to Action
Support the Paris 2024 initiatives by embracing sustainable practices and advocating for responsible actions in your own communities. Together, we can make a significant impact on the planet and set new standards for future Olympic Games.
