The decision to host the surfing competition for the 2024 Paris Summer Games in Tahiti has sparked controversy. The iconic reef at Teahupo’o in Tahiti is revered for its legendary waves and pristine lagoon. However, plans to install a large judging tower in the fragile ecosystem have raised concerns about irreparable damage. Scientists warn that the construction could devastate the local marine ecosystem, particularly the coral reefs. While efforts to relocate coral are underway, the scale and urgency of the task pose challenges. With the looming threat of coral bleaching and environmental stress, the long-term impact of the tower remains uncertain. Despite Paris 2024’s sustainability commitments, the environmental repercussions of such a project raise questions about the true cost of hosting the Olympics. Preserving the natural beauty of Tahiti should take precedence over temporary structures that could alter the island’s landscape forever.
Views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Columbia Climate School, Earth Institute or Columbia University.
