As the Paris Olympics kick off this Friday, a comprehensive study by Respire (“Breathe”) has raised significant concerns about air quality at sports grounds across the city.
Conducted in collaboration with the French air monitoring service Airparif, the study reveals that nearly all sports centers in and around the capital are subjected to air pollution levels that far exceed the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limits. This alarming discovery comes at a critical time as the city prepares to host thousands of athletes from around the globe.
Respire’s study, encompassing 112 sports centers, highlights that the “vast majority” experience air pollution levels significantly above safe thresholds. The most affected areas are those near the Paris ring road, with the open-air sports ground at Porte d’Asnières as the worst-hit location in 2023. This site, situated 33 feet from the bustling ring road, is enveloped in vehicular emissions and particulate matter, creating a hazardous environment for athletes.
Adèle, a regular runner at Porte d’Asnières, recounted her struggles with the polluted air to Franceinfo: “There are lots of cars and lots of dust flying around, so it’s not good at all. I cough, it itches in my throat, and then it can turn into an asthma attack.”
Similarly, Anatole, who plays football near the Ring Road, noted the adverse effects on his performance: “I don’t play as long, and if I smell the pollution, I can get a bit dizzy."
The Respire report underscores the severe health risks associated with high pollution levels, particularly for athletes. Tony Renucci, director of Respire, highlighted the heightened risk during physical exertion: “When you do sport, you breathe in four to ten times more pollutants than when you are at rest.” This increased inhalation of pollutants can lead to a range of health issues, from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases to immediate symptoms like asthma attacks and dizziness.
The report also noted that pollution spikes could significantly hinder athletic performance. During the summer months, when pollution levels peak, athletes may find it challenging to achieve optimal performance levels.
The Olympic Village, located near the ring road in Saint-Ouen, has been equipped with advanced air purifiers to mitigate the effects of pollution. This initiative, a first for the Olympics, reflects the organizers’ awareness of the capital’s air quality challenges.
In addition to the air purifiers, five experimental outdoor air filters have been installed to capture dangerous particles. These measures aim to ensure a safer environment for the 10,000 Olympians arriving for the Games, set to commence on July 26.
Renucci warned of the potential need to postpone certain Olympic events if pollution levels spike during the Games: “If we have pollution peaks during the Olympics, we’ll have to ask ourselves whether we should postpone certain disciplines.”
The findings from Respire’s study concern athletes and raise broader public health questions. The pervasive pollution issue in urban areas like Paris necessitates concerted efforts from policymakers, urban planners, and the community.
Long-term strategies to combat air pollution could include stricter emissions regulations, promotion of electric vehicles, and enhanced urban green spaces to improve air quality. Public awareness campaigns can also educate residents about the risks and encourage proactive measures to minimize exposure.
In the short term, athletes and sports enthusiasts should be informed about accurate levels and advised to train during lower pollution, such as early mornings or late evenings. Personal air quality monitors can also help individuals decide when and where to engage in outdoor activities.
