Why air quality is important for athletes and the public
Air quality plays a pivotal role in both athletic performance and overall public health. Athletes often inhale up to 10 times more air during intense physical exertion, so are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution. The average person consumes around 15 kg of air daily, compared to just 1.5 kg of water, so the air we breathe is of obvious concern.
The impact of poor air quality on health is profound. Air pollution is the leading environmental cause of death worldwide. Unfortunately, a staggering 99% of the global population is forced to breathe air that exceeds the World Health Organization’s guidelines for air quality. For athletes, this can mean decreased performance, as studies have shown that high pollution levels can significantly slow event completion times and increase the risk of respiratory issues.
Growing awareness of air quality at the Olympic Games
The recognition of air quality as a significant factor in sports has grown over recent years. Events like the 2014 Beijing Marathon, where high pollution levels impacted performance, highlighted the need for comprehensive air quality monitoring at major sporting events. World Athletics, in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme, has launched a campaign to emphasise the significance of clean air in stadiums and during sports events.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will mark a historic moment. For the first time, meticulous attention will be paid to safeguarding clean air. The initiative aims to protect the health of all participants and attendees so that everyone can perform at their best and enjoy the events without health concerns.
Acoem’s air quality monitoring solutions
Acoem has been tasked with equipping the Olympic Village with multiple air quality monitoring stations to provide real-time data on the ambient air conditions. In doing so, the event organisers can make informed decisions to protect the health of athletes and the public based on accurate information.
The Kunak AirPro stations, featuring multi-pollutant sensors, are at the forefront of this effort. These compact, lightweight and autonomous sensors offer highly accurate environmental monitoring and have received accolades in national and international comparison contests. The data collected will allow precise mapping of air quality across different geographic areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage and actionable insights.
In total, 12 air quality monitoring solutions will be deployed throughout Olympic venues – covering both indoor and outdoor environments to provide a holistic approach to air quality management.
The broader implications of air quality monitoring for sports
Monitoring air quality extends beyond the immediate health benefits. It offers a tangible way to ensure fair competition and optimal performance conditions. Research indicates that air pollution not only affects people’s general health but also has a major impact on athletic performance, with higher pollution levels leading to longer race times and increased health risks.
Monitoring allows for adaptive strategies, such as revising race routes or schedules to avoid high pollution areas or periods to mitigate potential health risk to athletes and spectators.
This proactive approach embodies the Olympic movement’s commitment to health and performance, and helps the Games prioritise human achievement and wellbeing.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games promises to be a momentous event from every perspective, including air quality awareness and management. By partnering with Acoem and implementing cutting-edge monitoring solutions, the Olympic Organising Committee is not only protecting the health of athletes and the public, but also setting a new standard for sporting events worldwide. Acoem is proud to support and drive this forward-thinking initiative for a cleaner and healthier future.
