The Paris Olympics 2024, set to run from July 26 to August 11, will feature innovative “anti-sex” beds for athletes, similar to those used in the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Airweave, a Japanese company, has manufactured and delivered over 16,000 modular mattresses to France in preparation for the games.
These twin-sized polyethylene beds are placed on cardboard frames designed to prevent two people from sharing a bed, yet they are sturdy enough to support athletes of any size, with a capacity of up to 440 pounds.
The term “anti-sex beds” emerged during the Tokyo Olympics when American distance runner Paul Chelimo speculated that the beds were intended to discourage athletes from engaging in sexual activities. This speculation quickly spread on social media, solidifying the nickname.
However, the primary motivation behind these beds is sustainability. The Paris Olympics organizers chose these beds to minimize environmental waste. The use of recyclable cardboard frames significantly reduces the carbon footprint, aligning with the event’s commitment to environmental excellence.
Georgina Grenon, director of environmental excellence for the organizing committee, stated that these efforts aim to demonstrate that sustainable practices are feasible on a large scale. The recyclable nature of these beds highlights a significant step toward eco-friendly solutions, contributing to the broader goal of reducing the Olympics’ environmental impact.
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