2Sustain

Without a doubt, there has been plenty of hype about which city will be chosen to host the 2016 Olympics.

But, did you know that each finalist in the bidding process is planning to develop the most eco-friendly Games in modern history?

Chicago 2016 organizers call their plan the “Blue-Green Games” to emphasize their commitment to clean air and water. Tokyo 2016  is proposing “eco-games.” Brazilians are going green by planting trees in Rio de Janeiro. Madrid is pledging to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions.

Here are just a few of the green highlights from the Chicago 2016 bid:

* All electricity for Games operations will come from renewable energy sources.

* All generators supplied for the Games will run on biofuel.

* For the first time ever, athlete and spectator travel emissions will be offset in partnership with the Chicago Climate Exchange.

* Venues will reduce water consumption by 20% from baseline levels through design, technology and equipment, such as low-flow fixtures and smart irrigation.

* Waste will be minimized by reusing or recycling 85% of the materials used for the Games.

* Existing structures and parklands will be utilized whenever possible to minimize the carbon emissions associated with construction. Design and construction of all new and temporary venues will be conducted in accordance with best practices for sustainability.

For more information about the green initiatives in each bid, visit these sites:

Chicago 2016
Madrid 2016
Rio de Janeiro
Tokyo 2016