This torch is a design by Japanese designer Tokujin Yoshioka who was inspired by

the sakura cherry tree flower, Japan’s most popular and symbolic flower. Unlike other

torches, the Tokyo torch features five separate flames that emerge from the flower petals and merge in the centre of the torch. The torch uses aluminium extrusion production technology, the same as that used in the production of the Shinkansen bullet train. This allows the weight to be completely reduced, making it easy for anyone to hold. Approximately 30 per cent of the torch is recycled aluminium from the debris and sheet metal of the temporary accommodation used to house evacuees in the aftermath of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

The Tokyo 2020 Games were an unprecedented demonstration of unity and solidarity

as the world came together for the first time since the outbreak of the COVID-19

pandemic. This edition saw the debut of new sports that reinforced the timeless appeal of the Olympic Games: skateboarding, rock climbing, surfing and karate, as well as events such as BMX freestyle and 3x3 basketball. The Tokyo 2020 Games were the most balanced in history, with an almost 50/50 ratio of male to female athletes.

Tokyo 2020 paved the way for innovative projects to engage the Japanese public in

concrete sustainability actions.

The approximately 5,000 medals launched for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games were in fact created 100 per cent by recycling old smartphones donated by the Japanese public.

The podiums were made from post-consumer plastic, again donated by the Japanese

public, and recycled marine plastic waste. The torchbearers’ uniforms were also made from recycled plastic bottles.