In today’s world, sustainable development is becoming an increasingly urgent need in all sectors of the economy, both manufacturing and non-manufacturing. A clear example is the 2024 Olympics in Paris, which take place from July 26 to August 11, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% compared to previous games. To achieve this goal, the organizers have implemented dramatic changes in infrastructure, energy, food and transportation.
Marie Sallois, IOC (International Olympic Committee) Director of Sustainable Development, said: “As climate change accelerates, we must respond quickly. The Paris 2024 organizers are rising to the challenge, and they are doing so by focusing first and foremost on the most important part of the solution: reducing emissions.”
To realize this ambitious goal, the organizers have implemented the following specific measures:
Energy. The French energy grid will be reinforced with solar roofs and urban solar panels. EDF, the UK’s leading energy supplier, will provide certificates for clean electricity and the Trackelec blockchain system.
Purchase of carbon credits. S&P Global reported that they have secured 1,472,550 metric tons of CO2 credits from 13 projects, mostly in Africa, focused on cookstoves, solar energy, mangrove restoration, forestry, and clean water. There are also four forestry projects in France and nine other projects approved by Verra’s Gold Standard and Verified Carbon Standard.
Biopropane flare. Biopropane is made from renewable sources such as plant and vegetable waste. It is a byproduct of hydrogenated vegetable oil production that also creates renewable diesel and environmentally friendly jet fuel.
Food. During the Games, 13 million meals will be provided, which have 50% less carbon emissions compared to traditional French dishes. This will be achieved by increasing the share of plant-based ingredients and sourcing 80% of the food from local sources. Significant emphasis will be placed on reducing food waste and the use of plastic.
Transportation. Paris’ extensive public transportation system and new bicycle lanes will facilitate environmentally friendly travel. 80% of the venues are located within 10 kilometers of the Olympic Village, which will reduce the need for transportation for athletes. Public transport operators will expand their services, and the electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel.
Thus, this year’s Paris Olympics sets a new standard of sustainability for future games by integrating environmental practices into all aspects of the organization, as well as demonstrating how large-scale sporting events can help reduce environmental impact, support sustainable development at the global level, and emphasize the importance of sustainability for the future of humanity as a whole.
