Estimate the environmental cost of hosting the Games.
The Olympic Games are among the largest carbon-emitting events on Earth. The London 2012 Olympics produced 3.4 million tonnes of CO2, while the Rio 2016 Games generated 3.6 million tonnes. Construction accounts for 40-60% of emissions: building stadiums, athlete villages, and transport infrastructure. Air travel by 600,000+ international visitors contributes another 20-30%. Tokyo 2020 aimed to be "carbon-neutral" by using recycled materials (podiums from recycled plastic, medals from old electronics) and purchasing carbon credits. Paris 2024 set the most ambitious target: halving emissions versus London/Rio by using 95% existing venues, eliminating diesel generators, and serving 60% plant-based food. However, critics argue these targets exclude embedded emissions in sponsor products and broadcast infrastructure. The IOC now requires host cities to submit detailed climate action plans and post-Games carbon audits.