Climate change disrupts sports as Olympics face challenges
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
As the Olympic Games kick off in Paris, concerns over climate change are casting a shadow over the festivities. Reports of elevated bacteria levels in the Seine River and a heat wave affecting event schedules highlight the growing impact of climate change on global sports. PBS News correspondent Jeffrey Brown delves into how these environmental shifts are reshaping the sports landscape.
In the United States, professional sports teams are increasingly recognizing the urgency of addressing climate change. Alan Hershkowitz, the New York Yankees' environmental science and sustainability adviser, emphasizes the need for action, noting that children may soon be unable to play outdoor sports due to rising temperatures. The last decade has seen unprecedented warmth, pushing sports organizations to adapt to new realities.
Heat is a primary concern for sports scientists, with rising temperatures leading to more frequent weather disruptions, such as thunderstorms and wildfires, which can delay or cancel events. Adaptations are being made, including rest periods at the US Open and scheduling marathons at cooler times. However, experts warn that these measures may not be sufficient in the long term.
Winter sports are facing their own challenges, with diminishing snowfall and unreliable conditions. Olympian cross-country skier Gus Schumacher shared his experience of competing on artificial snow due to a lack of natural cover, a situation exacerbated by the warmest winter in 130 years. He has taken his concerns to Capitol Hill, advocating for measures to reduce carbon footprints in the sports community.
The Yankees are implementing eco-friendly practices at their stadium, including energy-efficient cooling systems and waste reduction initiatives. Doug Behar, the team's senior vice president of stadium operations, highlighted the importance of these efforts, which aim to lower greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing the fan experience.
As sports organizations grapple with the realities of climate change, they also recognize their potential to influence public awareness. With a larger audience than scientific discourse, athletes and teams are positioned to promote environmental literacy and inspire action among fans. The Yankees, while striving for on-field success, are committed to leading by example in the fight against climate change.
In the United States, professional sports teams are increasingly recognizing the urgency of addressing climate change. Alan Hershkowitz, the New York Yankees' environmental science and sustainability adviser, emphasizes the need for action, noting that children may soon be unable to play outdoor sports due to rising temperatures. The last decade has seen unprecedented warmth, pushing sports organizations to adapt to new realities.
Heat is a primary concern for sports scientists, with rising temperatures leading to more frequent weather disruptions, such as thunderstorms and wildfires, which can delay or cancel events. Adaptations are being made, including rest periods at the US Open and scheduling marathons at cooler times. However, experts warn that these measures may not be sufficient in the long term.
Winter sports are facing their own challenges, with diminishing snowfall and unreliable conditions. Olympian cross-country skier Gus Schumacher shared his experience of competing on artificial snow due to a lack of natural cover, a situation exacerbated by the warmest winter in 130 years. He has taken his concerns to Capitol Hill, advocating for measures to reduce carbon footprints in the sports community.
The Yankees are implementing eco-friendly practices at their stadium, including energy-efficient cooling systems and waste reduction initiatives. Doug Behar, the team's senior vice president of stadium operations, highlighted the importance of these efforts, which aim to lower greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing the fan experience.
As sports organizations grapple with the realities of climate change, they also recognize their potential to influence public awareness. With a larger audience than scientific discourse, athletes and teams are positioned to promote environmental literacy and inspire action among fans. The Yankees, while striving for on-field success, are committed to leading by example in the fight against climate change.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting