As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, concerns are growing about high pollution levels in the Seine River. Three kayakers from the Arc en Seine Kayak club have taken it upon themselves to collect garbage from the river, including plastic and other debris. They send what they collect to be tested for bacterial levels in an effort to raise awareness about pollution in the river. Despite their efforts, fears are increasing that events like the marathon swim, the triathlon, and the paratriathlon could be postponed or canceled due to high pollution levels in the river.
The president of the Paris Organizing Committee, Tony Estanguet, has expressed confidence that it will be possible to use the Seine River for the Olympics, but has admitted that the swimming leg of the triathlon may be canceled if pollution levels are too high. A recent report from a French charity showed that the levels of bacteria in the river, including fecal contamination, were higher than permitted. France has invested 1.4 billion euros in upgrading the city’s sewage system to improve water quality, but concerns remain about the safety of athletes competing in the river.
In August, the swim portion of a test marathon event was canceled due to pollution levels in the river. Fluidion, a company contracted to monitor bacteria in the water, shared their findings with NBC News, showing e-coli levels in the water were two-and-a-half times the safe limit for swimming. The CEO of Fluidion explained that water quality conditions can improve during the summer months when there is sufficient sunlight and low river flow, but a rain event can quickly increase pollution levels. There is a risk of developing infections or illnesses from swimming in polluted water, and athletes’ safety is a top priority for the Paris Olympics.
Despite efforts to improve water quality in the Seine River, concerns about pollution levels persist as the Olympics draw closer. Opening up the river to public swimmers by 2025 is part of a larger plan to make the Seine more accessible and safe for recreational use. The city of Paris has made investments in infrastructure, including a large overflow tank, to reduce pollution levels in the river. While progress has been made, the threat of high bacterial levels affecting Olympic events remains a significant concern for organizers and athletes.
The three kayakers from the Arc en Seine Kayak club continue to raise awareness about pollution in the Seine River through their cleanup efforts. They hope to inspire others to take action and work towards a cleaner, more sustainable environment. The future of water quality in the Seine River will depend on continued efforts to monitor and address pollution sources, as well as public awareness and engagement in protecting the health of the river. As the countdown to the 2024 Paris Olympics continues, the safety of athletes and the suitability of the Seine River for competitive events remain top priorities for organizers and participants alike.
