The 2024 Paris Olympics is committed to significantly reducing its carbon footprint, aiming to cut emissions by half compared to previous Games. This ambitious target will be achieved through a combination of carbon offsets and reliance on renewable energy sources.
Close-up of a tree seedling, with the Eiffel Tower Stadium in the background, one of the venues for Olympic events. AI generated picture.
The Paris Olympics, scheduled from 26 July to 11 August, aims to achieve a total carbon footprint of 1.58 million tonnes of CO2, down from its initial target of 1.75 million tonnes. In supporting their emissions strategy, the organisers have purchased 1.47 million tonnes of CO2 carbon credits from 13 projects focused on renewable energy, forestry, and clean water initiatives in Africa and France. Three of these projects are focused on energy efficient cookstoves distribution, while three reforestation projects and one afforestation initiative in France complete the nature-based-solutions landscape of the Olympics.
Paris 2024's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint encompasses all emissions categories, aiming for a significant reduction compared to previous Games.This proactive approach stands in contrast to the Tokyo Olympics, which used 4.38 million tonnes of CO2 offsets through domestic programmes. To realise its 2024 goals, energy use will account for less than 5% of total emissions, with diesel generators being replaced by renewable energy sources. The Olympic flame will burn cleanly thanks to biopropane.
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While the voluntary carbon market faces scrutiny and fluctuating credit values, the Paris Games continue to invest heavily in offsets, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. The event's reliance on existing and temporary infrastructure will further minimise construction-related emissions, with 95% of facilities either already in place or temporary.
Energy for the Games will be sourced from France’s low-carbon grid, enhanced by solar arrays on venues like the swimming pool. State power company EDF will supply green power backed by guarantees of origin from wind and solar farms, marking a significant move towards renewable energy for large events.
The Olympic Torch, fuelled by biopropane and crafted from recycled steel, has toured France over the past 10 weeks. The use of biopropane, a renewable byproduct of the vegetable oil process, underscores the Games’ green initiatives. The torch relay is estimated to contribute just 2% to 4% of the overall carbon footprint.
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Paris 2024 is not only setting a precedent for future sporting events but also demonstrating that large-scale international gatherings can prioritise environmental sustainability without compromising on grandeur.
At DGB Group, we are dedicated to advancing nature restoration through our nature-based solutions, which sequester carbon and offer numerous environmental and socio-economic benefits. Our projects produce high-quality, verified carbon units, helping organisations meet their sustainability goals and compensate for emissions from various sources such as events while also restoring biodiversity and protecting ecosystems.
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