Paris Olympics Lead the Way in Sustainability Despite Climate Challenges

The upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris aim to demonstrate how major sporting events can adapt to environmental challenges while promoting sustainability. As Europe experiences a severe heat wave, the Games will face high temperatures, though organizers are taking steps to mitigate its impact.

As global temperatures rise, high-profile events like the Olympics and FIFA World Cup are increasingly forced to adapt to extreme weather conditions. For instance, the Tokyo Olympics had to relocate the marathon to cooler Sapporo and adjust schedules to avoid the worst of the heat.

Olympic organizers are now planning to incorporate various sustainable practices. The Paris Games, set from July 26 to August 11, along with the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8, will utilize 100% renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Existing venues will be used whenever possible, and newly constructed sites will feature low-carbon materials and recycled plastics.

Efforts also include ensuring all temporary structures and furniture have a second life rather than ending up in landfills. All competition venues are accessible by public transport to reduce vehicular traffic, and the food served will aim to cut emissions by 50% through a higher proportion of plant-based options. The Paralympics will reuse the same venues and accommodations from the Summer Games.

While the Paris Olympics will inevitably generate a significant carbon footprint, especially from travel, organizers are targeting to cut emissions from construction and operations by half compared to previous Games in London (2012) and Rio de Janeiro (2016).

The 2024 Olympics are seen as a model for how large-scale sporting events can minimize their environmental impact and promote sustainability on a global scale. This initiative not only aims to provide a firsthand experience of sustainability for spectators but also hopes to inspire increased advocacy for eco-friendly practices in everyday life.

The Paris Games will serve as a showcase for sustainability in sports, demonstrating how international collaboration can drive positive change and setting a precedent for future events, including the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.