Controversy in Tahiti: the debate over the infrastructure for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games are getting closer and with that, a controversy has erupted regarding the inclusion of Tahiti as a venue for one of the sporting disciplines. While this South Pacific island is renowned as a surfing paradise, the construction of a new judges' tower has sparked controversy due to the potential environmental impact it could have on the delicate coral reef of Teahupo'o. Tahiti, as part of French Polynesia, was chosen to host the surfing discipline at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games due to the quality of its waves, especially those of Teahupo'o, which are considered some of the best in the world. However, the need for new infrastructure for the competition has prompted criticism from environmental conservation experts and the local community, who fear the damage that could be caused to the coral reef. The construction of an aluminum tower to replace the old wooden tower, which did not meet the required safety standards, has been the focal point of the controversy. Various organizations and individuals involved in environmental conservation have expressed concern about the potential impact on the marine ecosystem of Teahupo'o, which is vital for the formation of the famous waves that attract surfers from around the world. The video released by Save Teahupo'o Reef, showing a vessel stuck on the reef and damaged corals, has been a trigger for questioning the sustainability of the sporting event in such a fragile environment as Tahiti's coral reef. Criticism is focused on the long-term impact that the construction of the new tower and other activities related to the competition could have on the marine biodiversity of the area. In response to the criticism, the Paris 2024 commission has stated that measures have been taken to minimize the environmental impact of the works in Teahupo'o and that the new aluminum tower meets the necessary safety requirements. It has also been emphasized that the infrastructure can be certified for 10 years, ensuring the celebration of future sporting events in the area. On the other hand, Tim McKenna, a renowned photographer residing in Tahiti, has supported the construction of the new tower by stating that the area where it is located has little coral and that the aluminum structure will contribute to the safety and continuity of surfing events at Teahupo'o in the coming years. His opinion has sparked a debate between those who believe that environmental preservation should take precedence over the needs of sports and those who see the new infrastructure as an opportunity for development and international projection for Tahiti. Ultimately, the inclusion of Tahiti as a surfing venue in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games has highlighted the complex relationship between elite sports and environmental protection. The organizing authorities have committed to ensuring the sustainability of sports activities on the island and to minimizing any negative impact on the coral reef of Teahupo'o, in an attempt to reconcile the passion for sports with the preservation of marine ecosystems.