London 2012 Thinks Green

December 3, 2009—London 2012 organizers have pledged to hold the most sustainable event in the history of the Olympics, reports FM World. An updated sustainability plan published Thursday shows a range of new targets and measures in an attempt to set a new environmental standard.

Organizers are committed to sending zero-waste to landfill. An initial study suggests that 8,000 tons of waste will be generated by the Games of which 40 per cent is likely to be food waste or contaminated food waste. Organizers will be working with contractors and suppliers to minimize waste by carefully selecting materials and packaging, and by creating as many reuse and recycling opportunities.

Other green commitments include pledges that sports venues will use 40 per cent less water than equivalent buildings because of low flush toilets and rainwater harvesting. Also there will be a low emission fleet of vehicles, and spectators and staff have been encouraged to use public transport. The Olympic and Paralympic flames will be low or zero-carbon for the first time.

The Olympic Stadium is reportedly the most lightweight stadium of its kind to minimize the use of steel, while the Velodrome is almost 100 per cent naturally ventilated and the concrete in the foundations of the Aquatics Centre has a high-recycled content.

Carbon emissions have been cut by 15 per cent. Up to 90 per cent of construction waste is being diverted from landfill and is being re-used or recycled, according to the Olympic Delivery Authority.

Meanwhile the International broadcasting (IBC) and main press centre (MPC) building is taking shape and will house more than 20,000 press and media personnel during the Games. Once the Games are over the venue will become a business park. The MPC venue will make use of concrete foundations and the building is equipped with new utilities to meet the green building standards. The IBC's frame will be built using 4,500 tons of steel.

Source: GamesBids.com

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