At the core of global sports should be a dedication to environmentally friendly practices through every phase of the sporting cycle, beginning with venue selection and transportation to handling waste and efficient energy use. With this in mind, the Paris 2024 Olympics might just be the most eco-friendly edition yet.
Beyond the choices of the organisers, a closer look reveals the pivotal role athletes play in fostering environmentally friendly sports. From their choice of activewear to hygiene products and food choices, athletes determine whether a sports event is truly eco–friendly. In this article, we outlined some ways the everyday active woman can get inspiration from them to support eco-friendly sports with subtle choices that have a great impact on the environment.
Just how eco-friendly was the Paris Olympics?
Unlike London and Tokyo, where eight new facilities each were set up for the Olympics, Paris used existing facilities or temporary setups for 95% of its Olympic events and only constructed two new structures. One of them, the Aquatics Centre in Saint-Denis, was designed to benefit the local Seine-Saint-Denis community long after the Games. The Centre relies on energy generated by 4,680 square metres of solar panels on its rooftop.
The 8,000-seat Adidas Arena was also constructed for badminton, weightlifting, and rhythmic games. Like the Aquatics Centre, its seats were made of recycled plastic, and timber was the major construction material, aiding in emission reduction. In response to the scorching heat in Paris, the organisers installed 2,500 temporary cooling units, deviating from the original plan to forgo air conditioning entirely.
The athletes’ accommodations remained relatively simple. Pictures of their mattresses, made from recycled fishing nets, and their beds crafted from sturdy cardboard boxes, flooded the internet, creating some buzz for the Olympics.
The Olympics also served as a motivation to clean the River Seine which was used for the opening ceremony and outdoor swimming games. With significant investment allocated to pollution cleanup, Parisians will have access to a much cleaner river from 2025 onwards.
Most of the furniture utilised during the Games was rented rather than bought, and will be repurposed post-Olympics. Furthermore, the 2,800 new apartments constructed for the Olympic Village will be converted into residential homes.
Eco-friendly practices for women in sports
Taking a page out of the 2024 Olympics’ eco-friendly playbook, we’ve highlighted a few ways to adopt eco-friendly habits for active women.
Reusable water bottles
From workouts to training to competing, hydration is essential for every active person. While plastic bottles are affordable and readily available, they harm the environment due to their inability to decompose. However, one can stay hydrated by investing in long-lasting, reusable water bottles, most of which keep your water cool for longer hours.
Wet wipes
Wet wipes have come under scrutiny lately. Many experts say most wipes are not recyclable, leading to a lengthy decomposition period of over 100 years. On a positive note, various recyclable wipe brands have sprung up. These eco-friendlier options naturally degrade after disposal, while some are even compostable.
Hair and skin products
Hair and skincare products are essential in maintaining healthy hair and skin, especially for sportswomen who are often exposed to sweat, strenuous activities, harsh weather, and bodies of water. While everyone has their favourite brands, only a few care to think about what ingredients they contain.
Holistic self-care should involve taking care of our bodies and the earth we live in. Avoid harmful chemicals and support companies dedicated to promoting a healthier environment by choosing natural and organic products.
Eco-friendly period care
When it comes to choosing period products, most women tend to go for what’s readily available in stores, typically single-use tampons or sanitary pads, which can accumulate waste. A way to combat this, opt for sustainable options like menstrual cups or period-proof underwear. Not only are they kind to the environment, but they’re also cost-effective in the long run.
It’s inspiring to see sports events embrace eco-friendly practices, setting a positive example for active people as a whole. Incorporate these sustainable choices to excel in sports and contribute to a greener, healthier planet.
