In its report, Swimming upstream -- Sustainable in challenging times?, the commission provides a comprehensive evaluation of the potential to deliver sustainable games and leave a lasting legacy.

The commission is pleased to report that the sustainability standards set at the time of the bid are being maintained. The review identifies some concerns but also highlights opportunities to build on a platform of solid achievement by the delivery bodies.

“The good news is that we have seen no evidence that the published sustainability standards are being watered down because of the recession. Indeed, new standards have been set in many areas,” said Shaun McCarthy, chair of the Commission for a Sustainable London 2012.

“The [Olympic Delivery Authority] is setting an excellent example which should be followed by other public sector construction projects, and we have seen high quality plans from [London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games]. However, we expect London 2012 to have a positive influence over a range of sectors from construction to transport, event management, property development and education.”

The commission commends the groundbreaking work being carried out to define the wider carbon footprint of the London 2012 Programme from bid win to closing ceremony and recommends that the London 2012 bodies take collective responsibility for these emissions and work together to mitigate their impact.

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