Regional Air Quality Expected to Improve During 2002 Games

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah—The Salt Lake Organizing Committee for the Olympic Winter Games of 2002 (SLOC) has completed a comprehensive plan to minimize and mitigate air pollution before, during and after the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The report is the first air quality plan developed in advance of the Games.

The Air Quality Plan, (available on media request), was prepared in conjunction with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Utah Environmental and Public Health Alliance. The plan addresses SLOC’s transportation impacts and mitigation measures, as well as other programs that will improve air quality overall. SLOC’s goal is to realize a net decrease in pollution levels as a result of hosting the Games in Salt Lake City. Both Atlanta (1996) and Los Angeles (1984) experienced marked improvement in air quality during their respective Games.

‘For the first time in Olympic history, air quality is being directly addressed,’ said SLOC President Mitt Romney. ‘In 1993 the environment was added to sports and the arts as one of three pillars of the Games. SLOC is committed to minimizing and mitigating air pollution proactively.’

The Air Quality Plan includes recommendations for an energy efficient transportation system and extensive tree planting programs to reduce pollution. Through a concerted effort, SLOC and the Cleaner and GreenerTM Environment Program are working to make the 2002 Olympic Winter Games the first Olympics with zero net emissions.

Substantial improvements in transportation systems are being undertaken at all levels, from highway improvements and light rail, to the creation and expansion of highly efficient public transit systems serving the Olympic venues.

Additionally, SLOC is aiming for a 5 percent increase in urban tree cover, which could translate into a significant reduction of some harmful greenhouse gases. The organizing committee plans to plant 100,000 trees statewide prior to the Games.

For more information, contact Caroline Shaw or Frank Zang in SLOC Communications and Media Relations at (801) 212-2002.

Source: SLOC