The Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) Sustainability Commission has released a report highlighting the sustainability progress made by 14 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This report compiles initiatives such as the exclusive use of trains to transport athletes, the reuse of uniforms from past events and the reduction of single-use plastics.
The document, available on the sustainability section of the ANOC website, seeks to inspire other NOCs to adopt similar measures. The Commission stressed the importance of sharing these strategies at the outset of preparations for future Games, even before contracts are signed, to maximize positive environmental impact.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024, AN EXAMPLE OF LOCAL IMPACT
At its October 29 meeting in Cascais, the Commission also addressed the sustainability efforts implemented at ANOC General Assembly 2024, which focused on generating local impact beyond traditional carbon offsets. Among the initiatives highlighted, 10,000 trees were planted in partnership with the city of Cascais, a beach cleanup was organized with Procter & Gamble and the Ocean Foundation, and electric and hybrid vehicles were introduced in partnership with Toyota.
In addition, hydration stations with reverse osmosis technology from Bluewater were set up and biodegradable bottles developed by the Mirpuri Foundation were distributed. The organization also reused leftover food with the support of ReFood and transformed event signage into giveaways through a partnership with Restore, promoting resource efficiency.
NEW TOOLS TO DRIVE SUSTAINABILITY
During the meeting, other key developments were discussed, such as the development of a NOC Sustainability Dashboard, to be launched next year, and progress on a Sustainable Procurement Policy. In addition, ANOC has expanded its collaboration with Project OCEAN to improve carbon emissions calculation, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability in sport.
Another relevant step was ANOC’s adherence to the Sports for Nature Framework, reinforcing its dedication to integrating sustainable practices throughout its operations. This framework fosters collaboration between NOCs and the global sports community, avoiding duplication and maximizing impact.
INVITATION FOR COLLECTIVE LEARNING
The Commission called on NOCs that have not yet shared their Paris 2024 sustainability achievements to do so, with the aim of enriching the report and fostering collective learning. These experiences not only inspire other committees, but also lay the groundwork for advancing the environmental, social and economic impact of future sporting events.
