The 2024 Olympics wrap up this weekend and once the final medals are awarded and the torch is snuffed at the end of the closing ceremonies, Paris organizers will still face one more big question: Did they hit their goal of creating the most sustainable Olympics ever?
Let's just say that the results are still up for review.
While organizers cut back on single-use plastics, used recycled plastics for infrastructure such as seating at the swim venue, used existing facilities where possible and cut carbon emissions, there were also many high-profile missteps.
The Guardian reports that Coca-Cola Co. said more than half of its drinks served at the Olympics — 9.6 million of them — avoided single-use plastics by installing 700 soda fountains, accessible with a cup with a 2 euro deposit. However, there were a lot of facilities where those fountains couldn't be installed.
In addition, French environmental groups documented instances when concession stand workers simply poured drinks from plastic bottles into the featured reusable cups.
The International Olympic Committee also is facing a push from public health groups to cut its reliance on funding from Coke overall, citing the high level of sugar in its products.
Marine Bonavita, project manager at Zero Waste France, which is part of Zero Waste Europe, said organizers missed an opportunity to make a statement for single-use plastics reduction.
"Attracting millions of visitors, these events are the perfect time to implement large-scale reuse systems and raise awareness among as many people as possible," she said.
