World Aquatics (formerly FINA) is concerned. The world swimming body says it is very concerned about the many pool closures around the world, mostly due to rising energy costs. We are concerned that in some places access is already being restricted – including pool closures, reduced opening hours and significant increases in entrance fees,” says Husain Al-Musallam, President of World Aquatics. This negative impact goes far beyond regular pool users who train for competition, it is particularly worrying when it prevents young people from learning an essential life skill.” An online meeting of the European Swimming League (ESL) member national federations is scheduled for 13 February to discuss a common approach to the problem, including sharing best practice and EU resources. In response to the dramatic rise in energy costs, World Aquatics reminds us that solutions exist today to build or design more sustainable and eco-responsible pools. At the top of the list is the experiment undertaken by Myrtha Pools, a partner of World Aquatics, and the ACOR Consultants agency in Sydney, to analyse and compare construction techniques and their impact on the environment. Another example highlighted by the international body is the future Olympic Aquatic Centre for the Paris 2024 Games, which has been designed entirely with sustainability in mind. It will be equipped with a combined heat pump and filtration unit, as well as a 5,000 m2 solar installation on the roof to supply electricity to the entire complex.
