What's happened
As the Paris 2024 Olympics commence, athletes are testing the cardboard beds in the Olympic Village, which have sparked discussions about comfort and sustainability. Tom Daley and other Olympians have showcased the beds' durability on social media, debunking myths about their purpose. While some athletes express discomfort, the beds are part of a broader initiative to create the most sustainable Games yet, with a focus on eco-friendly materials and practices.
Why it matters
The Paris 2024 Olympics aims to set a precedent for sustainability in major sporting events. The use of cardboard beds, while controversial, highlights the commitment to reducing environmental impact. This initiative may influence future Olympic Games and other large-scale events, pushing for more sustainable practices. The athletes' experiences with the beds could also affect perceptions of comfort and performance in Olympic settings, potentially leading to changes in accommodation standards.
What the papers say
The Guardian reported that athletes like Tom Daley have been actively demonstrating the sturdiness of the cardboard beds, countering claims that they were designed to deter intimacy among competitors. Daley stated, 'As you can see, they're pretty sturdy!' Meanwhile, Axios highlighted that some athletes, including Coco Gauff, have opted for hotel accommodations due to discomfort with the beds. The Independent noted that while some athletes enjoy the novelty, others have expressed concerns about the beds' firmness and lack of privacy in the Village. Sky News emphasized the sustainability aspect, mentioning that the beds are made from recycled materials and will be fully recycled after the Games.
How we got here
The introduction of cardboard beds at the Olympics began during the Tokyo 2020 Games, where they were initially perceived as a measure to discourage sexual activity among athletes. However, organizers clarified that the primary goal was sustainability. For Paris 2024, the focus has expanded to include various eco-friendly initiatives, such as using recycled materials and reducing single-use plastics. The Olympic Village is designed to leave a minimal environmental footprint, with plans to convert the facilities into public housing post-Games.
Common question
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What are the Highlights and Controversies of the Paris 2024 Olympics?
The Paris 2024 Olympics have already made headlines with standout performances, innovative sustainability efforts, and some controversies. As the Games unfold, many are curious about the athletes' experiences, the competitive landscape, and the reactions to the unique features of this year's event. Below, we explore the key highlights and controversies that are shaping the narrative of these Olympics.
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The modern Olympic Games or Olympics are leading international sporting events featuring summer and winter sports competitions in which thousands of athletes from around the world participate in a variety of competitions.
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Thomas Robert Daley is a British diver, television personality and YouTube vlogger. He specialises in the 10-metre platform event and is a double World champion in the event; he won the 2009 FINA World Championship in the individual event at the age of 15
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Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, with an estimated population of 2,150,271 residents as of 2020, in an area of 105 square kilometres.
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The 2024 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, and commonly known as Paris 2024, is a forthcoming international multi-sport event that is scheduled to take place from 26 July to 11 August 2024 in Paris, France.