New body to monitor green Games

An independent body that will monitor the sustainability of the London 2012 Olympic Games is being launched today.

The Commission for a Sustainable London 2012 will report to the Olympic Board on all aspects of sustainability – economical, environmental and social.

The body will be chaired by Shaun McCarthy, as revealed by Building in November, a former head of sustainability at airport operator BAA.

The move comes as the Olympics Delivery Authority reveals its sustainability strategy.

McCarthy said the CSL was the first time a separate body had been set up to scrutinise the Olympic Games. He said: “We will require the Olympic bodies to demonstrate they have robust plans in place to meet their sustainability commitments. We will also challenge the 2012 programme to create a legacy of which future generations can be proud.”

The ODA’s strategy aims to achieve a 50% cut in the carbon dioxide emissions associated with the Olympic Park and the venues through a combination of on-site energy generation and renewable energy.

The ODA has also pledged to reuse or recycle 90% of demolition material generated during the construction of the village and to ensure that at least 20% of materials used will be recycled.

Additionally, it includes ambitious targets to reduce by 40% demand for potable water in the Games’ permanent venues and to transport half of the park’s construction materials by water and rail.

ODA chief executive David Higgins said: "This strategy is unprecedented for a development of this nature and signals a watershed moment in the delivery of sports facilities in the UK. We are meeting tomorrow's requirements today - far exceeding current policy targets.”

The recruitment of commissioners for the CSL will commence shortly.