Working for a sustainable London 2012: in video

A 20-minute film from the independent Commission for a Sustainable London 2012, provides a view of how London approached Olympic and Paralympic sustainability, considers whether London 2012 is the most sustainable Games ever, and suggests how the model for London 2012 can be applied to other major events.

The film poses challenging questions about whether the London Games has met the goals set out during the bid stage such as ‘can a Games ever be sustainable and has independent assurance made a difference?’ It also addresses the major challenges of the Olympic project including ethical sponsorship, energy and merchandising.

Key people involved in setting up and running the assurance body provide insights into the performance of London 2012, with contributors including Jonathon Porritt (Former Chair, Sustainable Development Commission), Peter Head OBE (Executive Chairman, Ecological Sequestration Trust), Jill Savery (Head of Sustainability, America’s Cup) and Chris Townsend (Commercial Director, London 2012) as well as the Commission chair, Shaun McCarthy.

The Commission for a Sustainable London 2012 was set up as the world’s first independent sustainability watchdog; designed to help London meet its promises.

Shaun McCarthy reflected on the Commission’s experiences since London won it’s bid to stage the Olympic and Paralympic Games:

“Over the seven year journey we’ve made as an independent Commission, we’ve seen huge success and faced difficult challenges. By sharing our experiences openly and honestly, we hope to raise the bar on sustainability.”