Beyond the captivating athletic competitions at the Chengdu Universiade, the event has earned plaudits for its sustainable approach to infrastructure and logistics. It stands as a testament to how global sporting events can integrate and prioritize environmental concerns.
Reports from the City Work Service Department of the Chengdu FISU Games Executive Committee reveal a commendable achievement. By adopting comprehensive emission reduction strategies, the Universiade is on track to cut approximately 26,000 tons of carbon emissions. This stride underscores the growing significance of eco-conscious approaches in China’s sporting spectacles.
Green and low-carbon strategies are gaining traction in the sporting world, and the Chengdu Universiade is at the forefront of this movement. By harnessing local resources, they’ve incorporated renewable energy sources across the event.
A significant portion of the Universiade’s infrastructure reflects this eco-friendly ethos. Of the 49 competition venues, 36 are repurposed and renovated existing structures. The remaining 13, constructed afresh, adhere to international green building standards. A prime illustration is the Xiangcheng Sports Center, equipped with an innovative rainwater collection system. This feature alone conserves over 3,000 tons of water annually.
The Dong’an Lake Sports Park, the backdrop for the Universiade’s opening ceremony and pivotal events, embodies the philosophy of harmonizing with nature. Constructed by the Power Construction Corporation of China (Power China), the park is segmented into distinct zones – an “ecological wetland tourist area,” “ecological lakeside vitality area,” and an “ecological sports and leisure area.” These divisions accommodate diverse urban functions. Notably, Power China has integrated an intelligent reservoir management system, optimizing water usage based on specific conditions.
Addressing transportation, the Universiade has rolled out an impressive fleet of green vehicles. Over 1,340 new-energy buses and 1,000+ new-energy cars service the event. A significant majority, over 90%, of the vehicles connecting the FISU Games Village to urban venues are eco-friendly. Furthermore, all internal transportation within the Village exclusively employs new-energy shuttle buses.
In the FISU Games Village, sustainability extends to interiors. A substantial 95% of the furniture is on lease, ensuring its reuse post-event. Dining facilities emphasize locally-sourced, seasonal produce, with a staggering 70% of supplies fitting this bill. To further reduce waste, a facility designed to process 10 tons of kitchen refuse daily has been operationalized, promoting efficient resource use.
Adding a touch of interactive awareness, the Chengdu Universiade Low-Carbon Experience Hall opened its doors on Chengdu streets. Citizens can earn carbon credits by depositing mineral water bottles and cans into an innovative low-carbon cube, which can be exchanged for event souvenirs.
These tech-driven installations, beyond being engaging, have fostered an environmental consciousness. Representatives of the Chengdu Universiade Organizing Committee expressed their satisfaction, emphasizing that the essence of a green Universiade has been firmly embedded in the collective conscience of attendees and the larger public.
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