The Green Podiums of the Paris Olympic Games

The world’s best athletes are set to receive their gold medals at the upcoming Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer while standing on podiums made from recycled food containers. These silver-colored Olympic podiums, a first for any Olympic Games, have been crafted using 100 percent recycled plastic by a start-up called Le Pavé located on the outskirts of Paris.

Environmental Innovation: Maurius Hamelot, a 29-year-old co-founder of Le Pavé, highlighted the importance of repurposing plastic waste, stating, “There is an overabundance of plastic that is harming the environment, but which also has proven economic potential if it can be repurposed.” The company’s initiative not only contributes to sustainability but also showcases the economic viability of recycling materials.

Multi-Purpose Sustainability: In addition to the Olympic podiums, Le Pavé has also produced 11,000 bleacher seats for nearby sports arenas using recycled materials such as shampoo bottles and bottle caps. This innovative approach demonstrates how waste can be transformed into functional and eco-friendly products for large-scale events like the Paris Olympic Games.

Growth and Impact: What started as a small operation with only three employees has now blossomed into a thriving business with 34 staff members and two operational factories. The unexpected opportunity to collaborate with Olympic organizers has not only boosted Le Pavé’s production capacity but has also positioned the company as a sustainability leader in the sports industry.

Government Support: Le Pavé’s success story is emblematic of France’s evolving start-up culture, fostered by President Emmanuel Macron’s government initiatives aimed at promoting clean technology and green entrepreneurship. By prioritizing innovation and sustainability, France is paving the way for a greener economy and setting the stage for environmentally conscious events like the Paris Olympic Games.