This past summer, the 2020 Olympics took place in Tokyo, Japan despite protests from many of the local citizens. Besides the fear of spreading COVID-19, many were concerned about the environmental impact that these games would leave behind. Like many host cities, the citizens of Tokyo had heard about the economic and environmental devastation that the games brought to many of its host cities, most infamously the 2016 Rio games. Writer La Redazione for the ImpactSchool Magazine writes:
The Rio De Janeiro Olympic Games in 2016 were an environmental disaster, in particular as regards the water of the city, which was highly polluted before the Olympics, during the event a real health hazard. The concentration of viruses and bacteria in waterways and at sea was so high that, according to a study, it would have been enough to ingest three teaspoons to get seriously ill. (Redazione)
The inability to prevent major ecological impacts during the Rio Games was proof enough to many other countries to deter the public from supporting their home city hosting the games. However, despite the obvious negative environmental impacts that the games have on its host cities, the IOC (International Olympic Committee) continues to make sustainable strides towards a zero-waste event.
For the 2020 Tokyo games, the IOC took several measures to make these games have much lower carbon emissions and environmental waste. Only 8 new structures were built during these games and the new infrastructure has been fitted with sustainable technology. Materials were reused or recycled, for instance, the medals were made from recycled smartphones and electronics while the Olympic torch was made of aluminum waster leftover from the earthquake in 2011. Podiums and stands were made out of recycled plastic, athlete beds were made out of recycled cardboard, and as many materials as possible were rented instead of built (for example chairs and tables). Overall these efforts were successful but many question the overall impact that these measures genuinely have on lessening environmental impact. A study measuring the overall sustainability of each Olympics since 1992 showed that:
The only Olympic games to rank below Tokyo so far are the 2014 Sochi winter games and the 2016 Rio summer games, both of which were notorious for far exceeding budget estimates and forcing the displacement of entire communities. (Smithson)
Because of these results despite the mass efforts to create a more sustainable environment, many are suggesting alternative strategies. For instance, some are suggesting that the games be held in their original location, Athens. Others suggest that a couple of main host cities rotate hosting the games each year to still provide a unique experience for the teams and fans each game. Generally, critics argue that the idea of a new city hosting the games every year and having to rebuild new infrastructure is unsustainable, and no matter how much the IOC attempts to become eco-friendly the event itself will never be 100% zero-waste. As the future of the Olympics may be uncertain, it is up to the public to shift the discourse on this topic and decide where the future of the Olympics lies.
I totally agree that having a new city every year host the olympics is not super feasible or sustainable. I always wondered why the Olympics aren't held in more capable cities with pre-existing infrastructure. I also remember seeing the Japanese cardboard beds and I thought there purpose was to deter the athletes from having intercourse. I think that Japan's approach to using recycled materials was smart and innovative but it is hard to offset the impact that a sudden influx of millions of can have on city that isn't meant for that many people. The Olympics will continue to live on but I foresee major changes that are soon to come regarding their issues.
I clearly remember seeing a tiktok about the ruins after an olympics takes place. I don't quite remember what city it was but every stadium and facility was completely abandoned. It made me mad because it is millions worth of materials and infrastructure wasted. Yes, the olympics bring lots of tourism to the city, bringing in new income but after is just a waste. Everything we should be working towards in regards to sustainability is thrown away. I also think of preparing for the Los Angeles Olympics they already have been trying to expand the metro system. I think this is a step in the right direction because they are pushing to use less cars and have people participate in…
I am eager to see how the 2022 Winter Olympics compare to previous years in terms of sustainability. I was not surprised to read that Tokyo residents were particularly hesitant about the games, as Japan is well known for its sustainability and environmental awareness initiatives. As we move forward as a society, it is critical to assess the necessity of a moving Olympics, particularly when new structures are constructed every two years.
I remember reading about the Rio Olympics and the devastating impact it had on the community, and that they still did not have clean up plans for the future. I think this topic is often of environmental and infrastructural waste is overshadowed by games so it good that you brought it up! For the LA games I like how they are going to incorporate already existing buildings like the LA Coliseum to support the games and not waste money and cause environmental issues by building new stadiums.
This is a really important topic that I think needs more coverage. I remember hearing how they were planning on hosting the olympics in LA for 2024 (now 2028) and I just can't imagine the effects and strains it will hold on the city. Already, highways are filled and commutes take forever, I can't even fathom how that would be once tourists and viewers are joining the crowd.