Rio De Janeiro Water Issues For The 2016 Olympics

Rio De Janeiro Water Issues For Summer 2016 Olympicsguanabara Baynear

Rio de Janeiro Water Issues for Summer 2016 Olympics Guanabara Bay Near Copacabana Beach Will host the rowing, marathon swimming, and sailing competitions Contains 84% of the city’s untreated sewage Bacterial Fecal Coliform is 16 times higher than what is permitted by the Brazilian Government Hazardous waste is 1.7 million times more hazardous than the beaches in the U.S.A. and Europe The effect on Athletes Scientists say athletes who ingest three tablespoons of the contaminated water have a 99 percent chance of being infected with viruses Athletes have been hospitalized by just practicing in the water The effect on Tourists Showering water Cooking water Drinking water Vegetation that gets watered Any other way a person can come in contact with the contaminated water Zika Virus References [1] T. P. Fool, "Mike & Mike, Dirty Water, Rio, and What's in Your Glass?," 13 August 2015. [Online]. Available: [Accessed 26 February 2016]. [2] D. Phillips, "Polluted waters could force Rio de Janeiro to move 2016 olympic sailing races," 15 May 2015. [Online]. Available: [Accessed 3 February 2016]. [3] B. B. a. J. Barchfield, "AP Investigation: Olympic Teams To Swim Boat In Rio's Filth," 30 July 2015. [Online]. Available: [Accessed 3 February 2016]. [4] O. Balch, "Funding Problems Hit Plan to Clean Rio's Polluted Waterways Ahead of Olympics," 1 February 2016. [Online].

Paper For Above instruction

The water quality issues surrounding Rio de Janeiro’s Guanabara Bay presented significant health risks leading up to the 2016 Summer Olympics. Encountering a multitude of environmental and public health challenges, the bay’s pollution levels posed severe threats to athletes, tourists, and local residents. Addressing these issues is essential not only for safeguarding health but also for maintaining the integrity of the Olympic Games and the reputation of Brazil’s environmental management.

Guanabara Bay’s contamination primarily results from the influx of untreated sewage and hazardous waste disposal, which drastically elevates bacterial levels, notably fecal coliform bacteria. According to multiple reports, approximately 84% of the city’s sewage is untreated, leading to bacterial counts that are 16 times higher than Brazilian government safety limits (Fool, 2015). The hazardous waste level is also alarmingly high; it is reported to be 1.7 million times more hazardous than comparable beaches in Europe and the USA (Balch, 2016). These environmental harms translate into direct health threats for anyone exposed to the waters.

For athletes competing in water-based events such as rowing, marathon swimming, and sailing, the health risks are particularly acute. Scientific studies have shown that ingesting merely three tablespoons of contaminated water can result in nearly a 99% chance of infection from viruses and other pathogens (Barchfield, 2015). Such contamination can cause a range of illnesses, from gastrointestinal infections to viral diseases, affecting not just performance but also athletes’ overall health, with some reporting hospitalization after exposure during practices or events.

The health risks extend beyond athletes to tourists and local residents who come into contact with the water through activities such as showering, cooking, drinking, or watering vegetation. The presence of hazardous waste and bacteria in these waters compromises the safety of bathing and recreational activities, leading to potential outbreaks of illness and viral infections, including the Zika virus, which was also prominent in Brazil during that period. These health concerns cast a shadow over the environmental management efforts undertaken by local authorities, some of which have faced funding delays and infrastructural challenges (Balch, 2016).

Addressing Guanabara Bay’s water quality problems requires a multifaceted approach that includes substantial infrastructure investments, stricter pollution controls, and environmental cleanup initiatives. The slow progress in these areas raises concerns about the safety of upcoming sporting events and the long-term environmental health of Rio de Janeiro. Although efforts have been made to improve water quality, recent reports indicate that pollution levels remain critically high, with ongoing challenges in sewage treatment and waste management (Phillips, 2015).

In conclusion, the water pollution in Guanabara Bay during the 2016 Rio Olympics exemplifies the intersection of environmental neglect and public health. The significant health risks posed by contaminated water necessitated urgent remedial action, coordinated policy initiatives, and global awareness to mitigate the risks for athletes, visitors, and residents alike. The Rio case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of sustainable environmental management, especially in preparation for major international events, to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants and uphold ecological integrity.

References

• Fool, T. P. (2015). Mike & Mike, Dirty Water, Rio, and What's in Your Glass? Retrieved from [Online].
• Phillips, D. (2015). Polluted waters could force Rio de Janeiro to move 2016 Olympic sailing races. Retrieved from [Online].
• Barchfield, J. B. (2015). AP Investigation: Olympic Teams To Swim Boat In Rio's Filth. Retrieved from [Online].
• Balch, O. (2016). Funding Problems Hit Plan to Clean Rio's Polluted Waterways Ahead of Olympics. Retrieved from [Online].