The city of the future: sporty, healthy and green

A world pioneer in urban innovation, Tokyo is building itself into the city of the future – and this is intimately linked with the Olympic Movement

Tokyo is a paradigm of the long-term benefits of hosting the Games. Previous Olympic Games have left the city with legacies such as Yoyogi Park, iconic venues and sport memories, but the best is yet to come. Tokyo is now ready to give back to the IOC.

The Sea Forest will act as the biggest air conditioner in the world

Since 2006, Tokyo has undertaken its greatest urban transformation ever. Run by Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG), Tokyo’s 10-year Big Change plan is shaping the city’s future. After completion in 2016, Tokyo will use the Games as a catalyst, while providing the Olympic Movement with the most advanced environment in terms of infrastructure, ecology, safety, culture, tourism, industry and sports.

According to Tado Ando, the world acclaimed architect whose vision is behind the Tokyo 2016 Grand Design and Sea Forest project, the transformation goes beyond Tokyo. “This is for the world, as a symbol of efforts to overcome global problems,” he says.

A key part is creating 1,000 hectares of new green space in Tokyo, represented by the Sea Forest project, a reclaimed island that will host the equestrian, outdoor cycling, rowing, canoeing and kayaking events. By 2016, Sea Forest will be a robust 88-hectare symbol of regeneration in the form of waterways and green corridors. Acting as a natural air conditioner, it will cool breezes flowing into the city.

Dr Ichiro Kono, Chairman and CEO of Tokyo 2016, adds “Water and greenery already cover more than half of Tokyo. We will work with the Government to raise awareness of addressing climate change to create a sustainable future. As a firm environmental commitment, we are dedicated to building a legacy that will inspire other cities and nations.”

This reflects TMG’s promise of a carbon-minus society, mirrored in the compact Tokyo 2016 Bid proposal, which minimises transport requirements and prioritises use of existing venues. All new or temporary venues will use green design and be powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. Whenever possible, low- to zero-emission vehicles will be deployed.

Overall, the Games will showcase the best solutions for sustainable urban development. Dr Kono adds: “Setting the stage for heroes is a pledge to both athletes and the world’s urban centres. Tokyo 2016’s bid to host the most sustainable and environmentally-friendly Games ever is encouraging people to think and act green. We will showcase best practice in combating climate change and demonstrate that healthy living in major cities is achievable. We believe this is an unprecedented legacy for the Olympic Movement.”