The Great Olympic lie: untold story of Winter Games’ huge environmental impact

Guardian Sport

by Andy Bull in Cortina

February 22, 2026

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The Great Olympic Lie: Untold Story of Winter Games’ Huge Environmental Impact The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has long touted its commitment to sustainability, but the reality behind the scenes at events like the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics reveals a stark contradiction. Rivers were drained dry to create artificial snow, and a unique forest of towering larch trees—some over 150 years old—was cut down to make way for the bobsleigh track. These actions expose the IOC’s claims of prioritizing sustainability as mereEmpty promises, raising serious questions about the environmental toll of hosting major sporting events. The destruction of the Bosco di Ronco, a monocultural forest rare at such a low altitude in the southern Alps, was particularly egregious. Locals cherished this area for its natural beauty and recreational value, using it for walks, sports, and leisurely activities. However, in preparation for the Games, this ancient ecosystem was completely eradicated to make space for the bobsleigh track. The removal of such a unique forest not only disrupted local biodiversity but also contributed to broader environmental degradation. The reliance on artificial snow production further exacerbated these issues. Creating snow requires massive amounts of water and energy, leading to the draining of rivers and nearby water sources. This practice has severe consequences for local wildlife, agriculture, and communities that depend on these water resources. The strain on natural ecosystems highlights the often overlooked environmental costs of hosting large-scale events like the Olympics. For readers interested in sports, this story underscores the urgent need to hold organizations accountable for their sustainability claims. While the IOC promotes eco-friendly initiatives, the reality often falls short, leaving lasting scars on the environment and local communities. The case of Milano Cortina serves as a cautionary tale about the true impact of hosting the world’s largest sporting events—and the importance of demanding greater transparency and responsibility from organizers.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/22/2026