Environmental Impact Assessment of the 2024 Paris Olympics

By Jayson Panganiban May 22, 2024 08:19

Photo by Getty Images

The 2024 Paris Olympics are not just about sports and competition; they are also about sustainability and environmental consciousness. With the increasing focus on environmental impact assessment, the Paris Olympics are setting a new standard for future host cities.

Background and Context

The hosting of the Olympics has historically been associated with extravagant spending, massive infrastructure projects, and the creation of large stadiums and venues that often become redundant after the games.

The environmental impact of such activities has been a growing concern, especially in the face of climate change and environmental degradation. The 2024 Paris Olympics aim to address these concerns by prioritizing sustainability and minimizing their environmental footprint.

Sustainable Infrastructure and Venue Management

One of the key aspects of the environmental impact assessment of the 2024 Paris Olympics is the approach to infrastructure and venue management.

Unlike previous host cities, Paris already had much of the necessary infrastructure in place, allowing the city to focus on more sustainable and practical projects.

Paris has repurposed older structures, such as the pool from the 1924 Olympics, and plans to use 95% already-built or temporary structures for the games. This approach significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with new construction and minimizes post-Olympic redundancy.

Renewable Energy and Emissions Reduction

The Paris Olympics are committed to reducing emissions and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. Paris plans to offer 100% renewable electric energy to power the games, in collaboration with companies like EDF.

This initiative aims to keep emissions lower than half of what was recorded at the London games in 2012.

Also, the city has planted numerous trees to offset environmental impact and plans to buy carbon credits to neutralize all the emissions produced during the event. These efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

Sustainable Transportation and Urban Integration

Transportation and urban integration are crucial aspects of the environmental impact assessment of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The city is promoting sustainable transportation by expanding bike paths and transforming roadways into pedestrian areas.

Efforts to integrate the Olympics with the city's existing infrastructure and address the needs of the suburbs demonstrate a holistic approach to urban planning and sustainability.

Economic and Social Implications

The environmental impact assessment of the 2024 Paris Olympics also considers the economic and social implications of hosting such a large-scale event.

While the games are expected to bring in a significant number of visitors, the long-term financial returns for host cities have often not matched the initial investments. But Paris's minimal upfront investment requirement and focus on sustainable practices may position the city favorably in terms of economic and social outcomes.

Innovation and Responsible Resource Management

The 2024 Paris Olympics are also notable for their innovative initiatives and responsible resource management.

The medals at the games will feature a piece of iron from the original Eiffel Tower, emphasizing the importance of responsible mining practices and the use of sustainable materials. This approach reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility and ethical resource extraction.

Lessons for Future Host Cities

The environmental impact assessment of the 2024 Paris Olympics offers valuable lessons for future host cities. By prioritizing sustainability, minimizing upfront investment, and integrating the games with existing infrastructure, Paris sets a new standard for environmental consciousness in hosting major international events.

All in all, the 2024 Paris Olympics represent a significant shift towards environmental sustainability in the context of hosting major sporting events.

Through sustainable infrastructure and venue management, renewable energy initiatives, sustainable transportation, and responsible resource management, the Paris Olympics are setting a new benchmark for future host cities.

The comprehensive environmental impact assessment of the 2024 Paris Olympics serves as a model for integrating environmental consciousness into the planning and execution of large-scale international events.