On June 19, the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Assessment Committeemet for the sixth time to discuss:
- Sustainability
- Public engagement update
Sustainability
Sustainability is part of Calgary’s potential bid, by both minimizing effects on our physical environment and making sure citizens and visitors can enjoy 2026 Olympic/Paralympic Winter Game venues for decades after the Games end.
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If Calgary chooses to bid on the 2026 Games, the event
needs to fit with Calgary’s vision: a great place to make
a living and a great place to make a life.
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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) added sustainability to their Agenda 2020 strategic direction, which includes 40 recommendations on reducing the complexity and cost for a candidate city to host the games.
Draft Sustainability Framework
To align with Calgary’s vision, plans, and strategies, Calgary 2026 created a draft sustainability framework, consisting of eight components. The draft framework is intended to be the foundation on which the potential 2026 OPWG bid will be developed. Some components of the draft framework support the development of the potential bid. Other components will be developed if we choose to bid and are chosen to host the 2026 OPWG. Collectively, the components represent a comprehensive approach to sustainability that is expected by the IOC.
If we can achieve a sustainable 2026 Games, the return on investment to Calgary could last for decades, including, but not limited to:
- Increasing affordable housing
- Improving recreation and community facilities
- Lowering carbon footprints (both the 2026 Games and Calgary as a city)
- Exposing Calgary to larger markets, including economic investment, job creation and increased tourism.
As Paris continues to plan for their 2024 Olympic/Paralympic Summer Games, we’re in a unique position to include their learnings and plans on sustainability into planning the 2026 OPWG, if we choose to bid and are chosen to host.
Public engagement update
We want to hear from Calgarians and talk with you about your perspective on Calgary’s future, the 2026 Games, and whether or not there is a fit between the two. A procurement process is underway to hire an external consultant, who will lead and implement the public engagement program.
We are scheduled to have a more in-depth update at the June 26 assessment committee meeting.
Committee meeting recaps
For more information about the Olympic bid project, visit calgary.ca/OlympicBid.