The Paris 2024 Olympics are just around the corner, promising to be the most environmentally friendly Games ever. The Olympics Legacy and Sustainability plan aims to reduce carbon emissions, minimize waste, and use renewable energy sources. Paris has set ambitious goals to cut carbon emissions by more than half compared to previous Games, from 3.6 million tons to 1.5 million tons. This means Paris believes it can produce fewer emissions than the Tokyo Summer Games in 2021, which had banned spectator attendance. Before Tokyo, the London and Rio Olympics had 3.4 million tons and 3.6 million tons of carbon emissions, respectively.
“Live events are very good at showing people what’s possible. We have the opportunity to make an impact on the public because we’re visible. You may not know what your utility is doing, but events this big bring ideas into the spotlight,” said Neel Vasavada, advisory board member at MUSE, an organization for leaders in sustainable events.
Despite the challenges of large-scale events contributing to climate change, Paris is setting a high standard for sustainability. While only time will tell if the promises hold true, we can learn valuable lessons from the Olympics to incorporate more sustainable habits into our daily lives.
The Olympics encourages athletes, spectators, and others attending to travel by train rather than flying to Paris, as trains emit significantly less carbon than planes. Each competition venue at the games is accessible by public transportation, making it easy to choose this option over high-emission vehicles.
Determining the exact emissions related to travel for 10,500 athletes, 45,000 volunteers, 20,000 journalists, and millions of spectators likely involves many estimations. Many attendees may still choose to use personal cars or take a flight due to comfort and familiarity. However, choosing less energy-intensive transportation options like biking, walking, or using public transportation can help reduce carbon emissions.
All Olympic venues in Paris are powered by 100% renewable energy sourced from wind and solar farms in France. Paris is setting up temporary installations during the Games to cover a portion of athlete’s consumption, including a floating solar farm on the Seine River. The Games will use the public electricity network powered mostly by nuclear energy, a zero-emission power source, instead of diesel generators.
Replacing generators powered by diesel or other fossil fuels with battery energy storage can help save money and reduce carbon emissions over time. Installing solar panels is another way to save on energy bills and reduce carbon emissions. Subscribing to a community solar program or choosing a 100% green energy plan in deregulated energy markets can also support sustainable efforts.
The 2024 Paris Olympics pledged to cut the carbon emissions of the average meal in half by doubling the portions of plant-based ingredients, sourcing local ingredients, and cutting food waste. Limiting single-use plastics by using reusable bottles for water and other beverages can also help reduce carbon emissions.
Paris 2024 is saving energy through sustainable venue choices, reduced equipment needs, and rented equipment, contributing to lower energy consumption across the Games. Over 75% of the equipment for the Games will be rented, and 90% of assets will be reused or have a second-life plan after the Olympics.
Instead of buying new items, consider rented or recycled options first to reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact. Choosing locally grown produce, reusable containers, and utensils can also help reduce waste and conserve energy.
The Paris Olympics serve as a reminder that while individual actions are crucial, fighting climate change requires a collective effort. While the sustainability plans show promise, it is the results that truly matter. It is essential for large corporations and systems to make a difference in the world by reducing fossil fuel usage and promoting sustainable practices.
