Paris Olympics' AC-free ambition melts away as organisers order 2,500 AC units

The Paris Olympics organizers have decided to install 2,500 temporary cooling units in the Olympic village, deviating from their initial plan to avoid air conditioning and rely on a geothermal cooling system. This change comes in response to concerns from national teams about the lack of air conditioning affecting athletes' sleep and performance during the summer heat waves in Paris. Athletes will now have the option to order portable air-conditioning units at their own expense for the duration of the games. The mayor of Paris had previously opposed using portable air-conditioners to prioritize environmental sustainability, but the compromise was made to ensure athletes' comfort and well-being. The Paris 2024 Olympics aims to reduce carbon emissions significantly compared to previous editions, with initiatives like using low-carbon building materials, reducing meat products on menus, and minimizing the construction of new venues. Despite the shift towards cooling units, organizers are striving to balance athlete comfort with environmental concerns in hosting the upcoming games.