Paris 2024, the highly anticipated Olympic and Paralympic Games, is taking a groundbreaking step towards sustainability by reinventing the recipe for sports event catering. With a commitment to serve 13 million meals and snacks, the Organising Committee is determined to deliver a taste of France while reducing the carbon footprint and promoting responsible ways of living.
Central to Paris’ successful bid to host the Games was the ambitious pledge to cut the carbon emissions by half compared to previous editions and set new standards for sustainable events. While catering may be a smaller contributor to the Games’ carbon footprint, making it more sustainable is highly symbolic in a country renowned for its exquisite cuisine.
Dubbed “Six Commitments,” the sustainable menu is designed to include everyone at the Games: spectators, athletes, staff, volunteers, media, and the Olympic and Paralympic community, spanning all venues.
First on the menu is the challenge to halve the average carbon footprint of the 13 million meals served over the course of the four weeks. This goal seeks to minimize the environmental impact of food production, transportation, and waste, aligning with the overall sustainability vision of the Games.
Another significant commitment is the pledge to cut single-use plastic by half. With growing global concerns over plastic pollution, this move reflects the Games’ commitment to minimizing plastic waste and its impact on the environment.
In a bid to support local economies and reduce the carbon footprint of transportation, Paris 2024 aims to have 80 per cent of its catering products sourced locally or within France. This initiative will not only showcase the diversity and richness of French produce but also support local farmers and businesses.
Furthermore, the Games organizers are determined to reduce food waste and ensure that 100 per cent of unconsumed resources are recovered. Food waste is a major issue globally, and by tackling this challenge, Paris 2024 sets an example for sustainable event planning and management.
To reduce environmental impact and foster circularity, Paris 2024 plans to reuse all catering equipment. By doing so, the Games will minimize waste and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient operation.
Inclusivity is also at the heart of the sustainable menu, with a commitment to reserve 10 per cent of jobs overall, and 15 per cent in the Olympic and Paralympic Village, for people with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative aims to promote diversity and create opportunities for underrepresented communities, making the Games a truly inclusive and empowering event.
Marie Sallois, the International Olympic Committee’s Director for Sustainability, applauded Paris 2024’s approach, stating, “France certainly knows how to welcome the world to its table. The Games organizers are laser-focused on showcasing French food that is sourced, produced, and consumed in a responsible way. We hope that this approach will go beyond helping reduce the Games’ footprint, raising the bar for sustainable catering at sports events and beyond.”
With Paris 2024’s sustainability commitments, the world is witnessing a revolution in event catering. By serving a taste of France with a responsible touch, the Games are setting a precedent for future sporting events to prioritize sustainability and make a positive impact on the planet. As the Games approach, all eyes are on Paris to see how they turn this visionary menu into a reality, inspiring others to follow suit and create a more sustainable and inclusive sporting landscape.