In a recent letter to the editor published in Dagens Nyheter, Gunnel Nordin expresses a strong argument against the continuation of the Winter Olympics, holding that these games are detrimental to climate health. Nordin highlights that when the first Winter Olympics were hosted 102 years ago, they solely relied on natural snow, suggesting that the environmental practices surrounding the event have since devolved. The over-reliance on artificial snow, which requires considerable resources and contributes to climate change, is presented as a core issue that warrants the ending of winter sports in the Olympics.

Nordin's letter reflects a broader concern in society regarding the environmental impacts of large-scale sporting events, prompting readers to consider the long-term implications of continuing such practices in the face of climate change. The argument taps into the increasing awareness surrounding the climate crisis, advocating for a reevaluation of priorities in the realm of international sports. The intersection of sports and environmental responsibility is a topic that resonates particularly in Scandinavian countries that traditionally value sustainability.

This call to action not only urges for a change in Olympic practices but also opens up discussions about the future of winter sports as a whole. If accepted, this could lead to significant shifts in how global sports are organized, potentially prioritizing ecological sustainability over tradition. As the climate crisis intensifies, the findings and opinions expressed through Nordin’s letter could influence both public sentiment and policy decisions regarding major sporting events.