2021 Eugene track at University of Nike
a huge investment of fossil fuels and public funds
A fifth of a billion dollars is being spent to build a new sports arena for this event. It is across the street from the Knight Law School, one of the key centers for lawsuits about climate change. I have not heard of anyone affiliated with this school or its spin offs (such as Our Children's Trust) who has spoken in public about this frivolous use of fossil fuels.
I have seen estimates that tourism, globally, might be responsible for eight percent of greenhouse gas generation. A precise count is probably impossible, but whatever the exact figure, it is a major part of the problem.
The City of Eugene has a campaign to plant 2,021 California giant Sequoia trees to "offset" the ecological impact. If the City was really concerned about pollution it would not be promoting thousands of people flying to Eugene to watch people run in circles.
August in Eugene is the driest and hottest time of the year. It is possible that the track event will be held when smoke from forest fires make air quality hazardous for athletics. Hopefully not, but several of the past few summers have had unpleasant levels of smoke from fires in the Cascades.
This event is hoping to use millions in public funds to boost the visibility of Eugene on an international stage, to promote moving to Eugene to help the real estate industry. It would be nice to see our money go instead to promote more sustainable activities, preparing for a lower energy future, relocalizing food, ensuring that construction of homes and businesses is as efficient as possible, and other activities compatible with the energy downslope that looms ahead in our collective future.