Sochi 2014 today joined experts from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and stakeholders for Russia's first Winter Games to conduct an Environmental Briefing and Technical Review. The meeting was a key step towards realizing Sochi 2014's commitment to host a Games that not only protects, but also enhances the environment for the benefit of future generations.

Already setting new benchmarks in environmental protection within Russia, Sochi 2014 has embarked on several major environmental protection programs all together forming the Sochi 2014 environmental support program, earlier approved by the Russian Federal Government.  These include a commitment to stage a zero waste and carbon neutral Games, a snow leopard conservation program and a scheme with local schools to protect ancient trees and other flora and fauna around Sochi.

Convened in Moscow, Russia, the meeting saw Michelle Lemaitre, IOC project manager, and Paolo Revellino, IOC environment expert, meet representatives from the Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee; the Russian Ministry of Natural Resources; the Sochi National Park; the Municipality of Sochi, and the Olympstroy State Corporation.

The experts reviewed the current environmental policies of Sochi 2014 and its stakeholders, as well as the planning and implementation of a dedicated environmental program for Sochi 2014. This incorporates the setting of targets, progress monitoring and collaboration between all major stakeholders to achieve the most environmentally friendly Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in history.

Part of the Olympic knowledge exchange program, the seminar gave Sochi 2014 the benefit of best practice examples from past organizing committees. In particular, the experts and organizers discussed how to develop a sustainable management system in accordance with both international standards and domestic regulations.

Dmitry Chernyshenko, President and CEO of Sochi 2014, said:

"Sochi 2014 is committed to delivering an inspirational environmental legacy for the Olympic Movement, Russia and the world through a program of environmental transformation in the Krasnodar Region. This meeting is a major milestone to achieving this goal, and delivering on the pledges made to the Olympic Movement during the Bid process."

				Paolo Revellino, IOC environment expert; Michelle Lemaitre, IOC project manager

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