Over 400 Olympians from 90 countries have urged the International Olympic Committee’s presidential candidates to prioritize climate change. They express concerns over the impacts of rising temperatures and advocate for immediate actions to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability. The urgent message emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts between athletes and the IOC’s future leadership to ensure a secure environmental future for the Olympics.
More than 400 Olympians from nearly 90 countries have expressed their expectations for the incoming president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). They urge that climate change be prioritized above all other issues, with signatories including notable athletes like Emma McKeon and Cyrille Tchatchet II. The letter highlights the disruptive effects of rising temperatures and extreme weather on competition schedules, venues, and athlete health, asserting the need for urgent action regarding climate impact.
The Olympians emphasized concerns regarding the feasibility of safely conducting future Summer Games amid increasing extreme heat and the declining reliability of snow and ice for Winter Games. Seven candidates are contending to succeed Thomas Bach as IOC president in an upcoming election set for March 20 in Costa Navarino, Greece. Following the election, the Olympians request a meeting with the successful candidate to address climate-related issues and reinforce existing commitments to reduce carbon emissions.
Additionally, there is a call for the IOC to advocate for broader environmental actions, promote sustainability among Olympic host cities, and establish stricter standards on sponsorship agreements with companies known for their pollution records. British sailor Hannah Mills, who initiated the letter, emphasized the pressing nature of climate change, referencing the recent wildfires in Los Angeles.
Mills expressed, “The terrible LA wildfires couldn’t have been clearer: the time is now to set a course for a safe, bright future,” reflecting a unified urgency among athletes regarding climate action. The IOC has pledged to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and to compensate for over 100% of residual emissions, while also encouraging broader environmental responsibility among stakeholders.
The pool of candidates vying for the presidency includes notable figures such as Sebastian Coe and Kirsty Coventry, as well as the current IOC vice president, Juan Antonio Samaranch. Each candidate has acknowledged the significance of the Olympians’ message on climate priorities. Prince Feisal Al Hussein remarked on the importance of the Olympians’ plea, while Coe has expressed his willingness to collaborate with athlete advocates for impactful initiatives on climate action.
In conclusion, the collective appeal from over 400 Olympians highlights the critical need to prioritize climate action within the International Olympic Committee. As the election for the IOC presidency approaches, candidates are urged to take concrete steps in addressing climate change. The commitment to sustainable practices and increased collaboration between the IOC and athletes appears vital for the future of the Olympic movement and the planet.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
