The U.S. Olympic team is one of a handful that will supply air conditioners for their athletes at the Paris Games in a move that undercuts organizers’ plans to cut carbon emissions.
ACs are not being provided to reduce emissions. Everyone is being asked to accept an equal handicap, so that the world does not become even hotter in the coming years. It’s largely symbolic, I agree, but I suppose kicking out a team that prioritises its medal tally over the climate crisis would send an even stronger signal.
No, it’s just posturing. The emissions from AC at the Olympic Village would have zero impact on climate change. This is just green washing for public perception points.
The emissions saved from removing a few hundred ACs are negligible. But the message it sends to the millions watching the Olympics is significant. Which, again, is why I am hoping there will be at least some symbolic action against rule-breakers - it will start a conversation about the need to regulate / ban ACs.
The organisers should just cut their power supply. Or disqualify the team for trying to gain an unfair advantage.
If living areas of the Olympics are getting hot enough that AC gives an advantage. They’re too damn hot, and that’s on France…
ACs are not being provided to reduce emissions. Everyone is being asked to accept an equal handicap, so that the world does not become even hotter in the coming years. It’s largely symbolic, I agree, but I suppose kicking out a team that prioritises its medal tally over the climate crisis would send an even stronger signal.
How is it unfair? Couldn’t any team do the same thing?
ACs are not being provided to reduce emissions. Most teams seem to be respecting this decision.
No, it’s just posturing. The emissions from AC at the Olympic Village would have zero impact on climate change. This is just green washing for public perception points.
The emissions saved from removing a few hundred ACs are negligible. But the message it sends to the millions watching the Olympics is significant. Which, again, is why I am hoping there will be at least some symbolic action against rule-breakers - it will start a conversation about the need to regulate / ban ACs.