Greenest. Olympics. Ever?

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Feb 23, 2009 10:45PM

We're still wading our way through the behemoth that is the Chicago 2016 Bid Book (no, seriously, it's f#$@&%! huge) but the Associated Press has already latched on to one of the aspects of the bid that the city is hoping will put us over the top: bein' green. At the heart of the green aspect of the city's proposal is the usage of lots of green space and space along Lake Michigan for event venues.

Per the AP:

Organizers say vehicles provided by the Games would run on low-carbon fuels or electricity and event sites would be powered by renewable energy. Storm water would be collected for reuse; the venues would use recyclable or reusable products. And sites would adhere to green building standards and coexist with natural habitat.

The article focuses on the greener aspects of Chicago, including the green roof initiative, and it's one Chicago 2016 spokesman Patrick Sandusky is heralding: "It's certainly one of the great strengths of the city of Chicago that we have to offer." The AP also delves into other issues such as air quality and transportation. It's an interesting look and even more interesting to see the Big Green Push by the Chicago 2016 powers who are clearly hoping that it gives the city an edge over Tokyo, Madrid, and Rio.

Now, if you'll excuse us, we have another 300 pages to go...