The sustainable medals of Milan-Cortina 2026
Winter Olympic medals have a fascinating history and represent the highest accolade for athletes participating in the Olympics. The Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics pledge to follow the example of Tokyo 2020 by promoting sustainability through their medals. This commitment will help reduce the environmental impact of the event and send a message of environmental responsibility globally.
The Winter Olympics are a time of great excitement for fans of snow and ice sports. Besides the athletes’ performances, medals are one of the most cherished symbols of these competitions. In 2026, the Olympics in Milan-Cortina will bring a special focus on sustainability, following the example of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where medals were made from recycled electronic materials. We examine the history of the Winter Olympic medals and the commitment to sustainability in the run-up to the 2026 event.
The origins of the Winter Olympic medals
The first modern Winter Olympics were held in 1924 in Chamonix, France. Initially, no medals were awarded to the winners of the competitions. However, in 1928, during the Winter Olympics in St. Moritz, Switzerland, medals were officially introduced as recognition for successful athletes.
In recent years, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has placed an increasing emphasis on sustainability in the Olympics. The aim is to reduce the environmental impact of these global events and to promote sustainable practices in the organisation and delivery of the Olympics.
The medals of Tokyo 2020 and the example for Milan Cortina 2026
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics set an important precedent in terms of sustainability. The Tokyo medals were made from recycled electronic materials, such as mobile phones and discarded electronic devices. This helped to reduce the extraction of natural resources and promote the recycling of materials.
The Milan Cortina 2026 Olympics aim to follow the example of Tokyo 2020 and promote sustainability also through their medals. Although the specific details of the Milan Cortina 2026 medals have not yet been revealed, it is expected that the organisation will aim to use sustainable or recycled materials in their production. This could include the use of recycled metals or innovative materials that reduce environmental impact.
A global sustainability message
The use of sustainable medals in the Winter Olympics sends a powerful message of commitment to sustainability on a global level. These initiatives provide an opportunity to promote environmental awareness and inspire positive action on an individual and collective level.
Looking to the future, it is crucial that the Olympics continue to promote sustainable practices, pushing towards a more environmentally friendly world. The Olympic medals, together with other sustainable initiatives, can help trigger positive change and inspire conscious action to protect our planet. The Milan Cortina 2026 Olympics represent a unique opportunity to promote sustainability and create a lasting legacy beyond the world of sport.