In a bid to promote recycling and sustainability the Olympic medals at the Tokyo 2020 games will be crafted from precious metals that have been sourced from old technology.
Technology like laptops and smartphones are created using precious metals that can be sourced after the product has reached its lifespan in order to ensure as much of the materials within the item is reused. Japanese Olympics officials have taken this to a new level by opening the recycling up on a grander scale to produce the 5,000 medals needed entirely from gold, silver and bronze that has been found in old electronics.
Speaking on the new recycled Olympic medals, Japanese gymnast and three-time Olympic gold medallist, Kohei Uchimura, said, "Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic medals will be made out of people’s thoughts and appreciation for avoiding waste. I think there is an important message in this for future generations."
Recycled Technology Sport Medals
The Olympic Medals at Tokyo 2020 will be Made from Old Technology
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Materials - The use of recycled materials, specifically from old technology, to create products or awards continues to be an important trend in promoting sustainability and reducing waste.
2. Circular Economy - The concept of creating a circular economy by reusing materials from old technology has potential for disruptive innovation across multiple industries including electronics, manufacturing, and fashion.
3. Green Sports - The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, by using recycled metals for their medals, are promoting sustainability within sports, undoubtedly sparking interest and demand for other eco-friendly advances across the sporting industry.
Industry Implications
1. Electronics - Electronic manufacturers can potentially disrupt the industry by incorporating more sustainable materials in their products and promoting a circular economy approach.
2. Manufacturing - The manufacturing industry can potentially be revolutionized by implementing more sustainable practices and utilizing recycled materials from old technology in production processes.
3. Fashion - The fashion industry has the potential to reduce waste and incorporate sustainable materials by using recycled metals from old technology to make jewelry and accessories.