Tokyo Olympics: Eco-friendly medal podium introduced

Despite the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the first ceremony to commemorate the 50-day countdown to the Tokyo Olympics was held today in Japan. On this occasion, the organizing committee of the Tokyo Olympics revealed an environment-friendly medal podium. The organizers also disclosed that a total of 878 ceremonies will be taking place on the newly built podium during the Olympics and the Paralympics.

During a live online event, the navy-coloured checkered pedestal was unveiled to the public. To emphasize the committee’s commitment to sustainability, podiums were built from marine plastic trash and domestic plastic.

President of the committee Seiko Hashimoto feels that the rituals will enable everyone to appreciate how important it is to hold the games during the pandemic. She stated about the games to be held whilst the pandemic that, “for athletes standing on the podium and for others watching them, I believe (the ceremonies) will allow us to realize the value of holding the games during this time. We have 50 days. I feel like I can hear the footsteps of the athletes who will cross the sea and gather in Tokyo. The organizing committee will protect the health of athletes at all costs”

During the Olympics and Paralympics, which were rescheduled for a year later owing to the global health emergency, a total of 878 events will be take place, engaging over 500 volunteers. The Olympics will offer 33 sports and 339 medal events. Meanwhile, the Paralympics will offer 539 events spread over 22 sports beginning on August 24.

Naoki Sato, the composer behind the soundtracks for hit films such as the ‘Rurouni Kenshin’ series and ‘Eien no Zero’ (The Eternal Zero), composed the victory ceremony music. The volunteers who are deployed for participation in the rituals will wear blue costumes that combine traditional Japanese kimono patterns with modern attire. They have the option of wearing a trouser or dress-style outfit for the ceremonies.