Tokyo Aims to Set Carbon-Neutral Gold Standard with Olympics

Recycled consumer electronics, sustainably sourced timber, water-absorbing pavements: these are but a few of the innovations that will help the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan achieve a net zero carbon footprint.

Environmental and urban experts note that the sustainable plans for the Olympics – including roads that reflect heat and eco-friendly uniforms – could also be adopted by other Japanese and international cities after the event.

“The Olympics are a big event, so it is a good opportunity to get our citizens involved in addressing the issues of climate change and sustainability,” said deputy director Kumiko Sugawara during a United Nations urban forum in Penang. “Tokyo is facing more climate risks like hotter weather and more frequent typhoons. By getting the public involved in meeting the goal of being a zero-carbon city, we hope efforts will continue even after the Games.”