7 June :The Organising Committee of next year’s Commonwealth Games is rolling out a series of measures to make the mega sporting event in the city the first ever ‘green games’.Officials of the committee said numerous measures are on the anvil to reduce carbon footprint and ensure energy efficiency.They said the venues of the Games are being constructed keeping in mind the green vision of the Games.Measures in terms of energy efficiency, water conservation etc have been initiated to reduce carbon emission from Games-related activities.
The Committee also plans to launch anti-litter campaign, bio-diverse afforestation drive, water conservation rally and spread awareness on how individuals can change their lifestyle to make a difference to the environment.
The objective of the anti-litter campaign is to reduce the littering rate in Delhi by raising the level of awareness and responsibility among the masses.The aim of the bio-diverse afforestation drive will be to help increase the existing green cover in Delhi.
The drive will be held regularly and will involve the public and school children.As part of the sustainable transport awareness programme, a number of initiatives have been planned to reduce carbon emission from vehicles.
People will be encouraged to adopt pollution-free mode of transportation and therefore awareness messages will be developed on tackling the growing problem of air pollution in the city.
Organisers will also promote cycling as a preferred green alternative for short distance commutation and its importance in the areas of health and environment.
A ‘Save Water Rally’ promoting conservation of water will be conducted on 22nd March, 2010.The Committee had signed a pact with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)to make the event a ‘Green Commonwealth Games’.
As per the pact, the UNEP and the Organising Committee will work together to incorporate environment considerations into the planning and staging of the event.
The UNEP will provide technical advice and information for the development and implementation of the comprehensive greening programme.
This will include waste management, energy efficiency, water management, eco friendly transport, green procurement, green tourism, ozone friendly initiatives and carbon mitigation and offset.