12 February 2010: As part of its ongoing efforts to promote eco-friendly sports, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has been working with the Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) of the 2010 Winter Olympics, to enhance the event’s environmental performance and increase green awareness.

Efforts have focused on minimizing the event’s carbon impact, with clean technology choices, an expanded transport system for the city, green construction for Olympic venues, and a commitment to offset direct carbon emissions from the Games. In addition, UNEP will produce an Environmental Assessment Report later this year on the Winter Olympics. [UNEP Press Release]