Over 400 Olympians call on the next IOC president to prioritize climate change. They emphasize rising temperatures disrupt competitions and threaten athlete safety. An immediate meeting to discuss environmental actions is requested, alongside stronger carbon reduction commitments. Candidates for the presidency acknowledge the need for sustainable practices and addressing climate threats.
Over 400 Olympians from nearly 90 countries have made a unified appeal for the next International Olympic Committee (IOC) president to prioritize climate change. Notable signatories include Australian swimmer Emma McKeon and weightlifter Cyrille Tchatchet II, who represented the refugee team at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. They collectively urge the future president to focus on environmental issues during their tenure.
The open letter emphasizes rising temperatures and erratic weather that disrupt competition schedules, threaten iconic venues, and affect athlete well-being. Concerns about the feasibility of hosting the Summer and Winter Games safely due to extreme weather conditions have increased, making climate action imperative.
With seven candidates competing to succeed Thomas Bach as IOC president in the March 20 election in Costa Navarino, Greece, the Olympians have requested an early environmental assessment meeting with the elected candidate. They stress the need for stronger carbon emission commitments and advocate for sustainable practices within host cities, along with stringent sponsorship standards relating to companies’ environmental records.
Hannah Mills, a sailor who helped initiate the letter, highlighted the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, future host of the 2028 Summer Olympics, as a stark reminder of climate change’s current threats. She expressed unity among athletes saying, “I’m not sure we’ve ever seen so many athletes from around the world speak with one voice.”
The IOC’s current commitment to climate change includes targets for a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and compensating for residual emissions. Significant candidates for the presidency include Sebastian Coe, Kirsty Coventry, and Juan Antonio Samaranch, all of whom have expressed a willingness to engage with athlete advocates on climate initiatives.
Prince Feisal Al Hussein welcomed the Olympians’ call for action, echoing the concern that climate change demands immediate attention in global sports.
The article underscores a collective movement among Olympians advocating for climate action from the next IOC president. Their open letter stresses the urgency of addressing climate change, highlighting risks to athletic events and venue safety. With several candidates in the presidential race, the call for sustainable practices and strong environmental commitments marks a critical turning point for the IOC and its future initiatives.
Original Source: kfgo.com
