More than 400 Olympians have urged IOC presidential candidates to prioritize climate change in their leadership. They stress that climate action is vital to ensure the safety and viability of future Olympic Games. The IOC’s current carbon reduction goals were highlighted, alongside a call for increased sustainability practices from host cities. Candidates have expressed support for this environmental focus.
In a significant initiative, over 400 Olympians from nearly 90 nations have urged candidates in the upcoming International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential election to prioritize climate action. The open letter features athletes including Emma McKeon, Australia’s decorated swimmer, and Cyrille Tchatchet II, a weightlifter representing the refugee team at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics.
The letter emphasizes, “To the incoming President, we ask that over the coming years and the course of your presidency one issue be above all others: the care of our planet.” They highlight the increasing disruptions in competition schedules and risks to iconic venues due to rising temperatures and extreme weather. Concerns regarding the feasibility of hosting future Summer and Winter Games in safe conditions are also raised, as extreme weather impacts event planning.
Seven candidates are in contention to succeed Thomas Bach as the IOC president in the election scheduled for March 20 in Costa Navarino, Greece. The Olympians are advocating for prompt discussions on environmental strategies with the new president and insist that the IOC strengthen its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and encourage sustainable practices among Olympic host cities.
Hannah Mills, a British sailor and IOC sustainability ambassador, remarked on the urgency of addressing climate change, referencing the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, the site of the 2028 Summer Olympics. “I’m not sure we’ve ever seen so many athletes from around the world speak with one voice,” she stated, highlighting the critical need for action.
The IOC’s current climate commitment aims for a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and encourages stakeholders to combat climate change. Prominent candidates such as Sebastian Coe, Kirsty Coventry, and Juan Antonio Samaranch are among those vying for leadership, with Prince Feisal Al Hussein welcoming the Olympians’ message and Coe expressing readiness to collaborate with athlete advocates.
In conclusion, the open letter from over 400 Olympians pressing for climate action underscores the urgent need for a focused environmental agenda within the IOC. The call for stronger commitments reflects a collective awareness of climate change’s impact on future Olympic Games. With a diverse group of candidates now seeking the presidency, the newly elected leader’s commitment to environmental stewardship will significantly shape the Olympic movement’s future direction.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
