Athletes at the Paris Olympic Games will receive medals on podiums made entirely from recycled plastic.
Liz Alderman reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- Le Pavé, a start-up in Paris, is manufacturing Olympic podiums and stadium seating from 100% recycled plastic.
- The company, originally small, grew rapidly after securing a contract with the Olympic organizers, expanding to 34 employees.
- Le Pavé collaborates with local recycling firms and schools, turning waste into useful products while engaging the community in environmental education.
Key quote:
“There is an overabundance of plastic that is harming the environment, but which also has proven economic potential if it can be repurposed.”
— Marius Hamelot, co-founder of Le Pavé.
Why this matters:
The Paris Olympics' commitment to sustainability extends beyond the podiums. Efforts include reducing carbon emissions, promoting public transportation, and ensuring venues adhere to eco-friendly standards. These measures reflect a growing recognition that the future of major events lies in their ability to operate responsibly and inspire global change.
