Paris 2024 Olympic Games: A milestone of sustainability in sports history

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games are marking a milestone in the history of this sporting event by becoming the most sustainable to date. With a clear focus on reducing carbon footprint, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has implemented a series of innovative measures aimed at setting the standard for the organization of large-scale sporting events. One of the highlights of these Games is the selection of existing venues or temporary infrastructures in 95% of cases. This decision has not only allowed for significant resource savings but has also contributed to sustainability by avoiding the construction of new facilities. Examples such as the Stade de France, built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, which will be one of the main venues, demonstrate a commitment to the reuse of spaces and sustainable materials. Sustainable mobility has also been a fundamental pillar in the planning of these Games. All venues will be accessible by public transport, bike lanes and green areas in Paris have been expanded, and the need for air travel has been reduced through a better distribution of competition phases. These measures not only contribute to emission reduction but also promote a healthier and more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Regarding food, there has been a focus on increasing the presence of plant-based foods, local and organic products, as well as reducing single-use plastic. With the goal of serving over 13 million meals during the Games, the aim is to minimize the environmental impact of food production and consumption, promoting more sustainable and responsible practices. Even iconic elements such as the Olympic torch and the official mascot have been manufactured with sustainability criteria. The Paris 2024 torch has been produced with low-carbon footprint steel, while the mascot, a handmade Phrygian cap, reflects a commitment to local craftsmanship and waste reduction. Furthermore, the commitment to the reuse and transformation of urban spaces is evident with the promise to plant 8,876 trees at the site of the Olympic and Paralympic Village, which will become an urban district with green spaces and sustainable mobility areas. This project aspires to be an example of a city of the future, where sustainability and functionality are seamlessly integrated. Lastly, the cleaning of the River Seine, a promise made by the Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, has been another notable achievement in the context of these Games. After months of work to reduce river pollution, athletes are now able to compete in water sports in this iconic river, restoring to the city a natural space of great symbolic and environmental value. In summary, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games will not only be a stage for high-level sporting competition but also an example of how sustainability and environmental respect can and should be priorities in the organization of large-scale events. This edition will set a precedent in terms of responsible and sustainable practices, demonstrating that it is possible to combine elite sports with planet protection.