Over 400 Olympians are urging IOC presidential candidates to prioritize climate change. They cite rising temperatures and extreme weather as threats to sporting events. An open letter requests early discussions with the new president on environmental commitments and sustainable practices for future Olympics.
Over 400 Olympians from nearly 90 nations have united in a call to prioritize climate change in the upcoming International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential election. An open letter, signed by athletes ranging from Australia’s Emma McKeon to Cyrille Tchatchet II of the refugee team at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, emphasizes that the well-being of the planet should be the primary focus for the new president.
The letter highlights the impact of climate change on sports, noting that rising temperatures and extreme weather threaten competition schedules and venues and jeopardize the health of athletes and spectators. Genuine concerns are raised about the future safety of the Summer Games and the diminishing reliability of snow and ice for Winter Games.
With seven candidates competing to succeed Thomas Bach during the election in Costa Navarino, Greece, on March 20, the Olympians are requesting an early discussion with the winning candidate regarding their environmental concerns. They urge the IOC to enhance its commitments to carbon emission reductions and advocate for an expanded environmental agenda, including sustainable practices among host cities and improved standards for sponsorship deals.
British sailor Hannah Mills, a lead initiator of the letter, remarked that the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, host of the 2028 Olympics, underscore the urgent threat of climate change. Mills stated, “I’m not sure we’ve ever seen so many athletes from around the world speak with one voice. The terrible LA wildfires couldn’t have been clearer: the time is now to set a course for a safe, bright future.”
The IOC’s current climate strategy includes a commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and compensate for residual emissions. Among the frontrunners to succeed Bach are World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe, Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry, and IOC vice president Juan Antonio Samaranch.
Responses from the candidates, including Prince Feisal Al Hussein and Sebastian Coe, indicate their willingness to engage with Olympians on climate initiatives, acknowledging the powerful message that athletes have sent regarding climate action in sports.
In summary, Olympians worldwide are urging the next IOC president to prioritize climate change as a critical issue impacting sports. The collective concerns expressed highlight the need for enhanced commitments to sustainability and environmental action. Athletes are looking forward to engaging with the new president post-election to ensure that climate considerations shape the future of the Olympics.
Original Source: kfgo.com
