Four Local Riders Biking for Climate Action09:07AM / Friday, October 16, 2009
STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — Four local activist, "iron men and women," will be biking 350 kilometers (218 miles) to help raise awareness of the International Day of Climate Action on Oct. 24.
The ride is one of many local events inspired by 350.org, a consortium of 200 global organizations committed to uniting the world around solutions to climate change.
More than a 1,000 events in over 100 countries will be held on Oct. 24 to encourage the leaders of the world to sign a global climate treaty at the international climate conference in Copenhagen in December. The number 350 stands for parts per million of cardon dioxide, the highest concentration in the atmosphere that is considered sustainable for civilization as we know it to continue and develop. Currently, the concentration of CO2 is around 390 ppm.
"The urgency to act — and to act boldly — could not be greater," said ride organizer and cyclist Uli Nagel of Lenox. "So we wanted to participate in a bold way. The ride is meant to be a symbol that we can accomplish a lot more than we often think we can, individually and collectively. It's in this spirit that the concept of the 'Going the Distance' ride was hatched."
The 350 km route will encompass two loops, both starting in Stockbridge. The northern loop, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 24, will include Pittsfield, North Adams, Williamstown, New Lebanon, N.Y., and West Stockbridge. The southern loop, on the following day, Oct. 25, will include Great Barrington, Salisbury, Conn., and the New York towns of Millerton, Wassaic and Hillsdale.
The group's slogan, "Lower CO2, Raise Consciousness," is inspired by the people who are working worldwide to safeguard the planet, and by EnlightenNext, an organization dedicated to liberating the human spirit in order to create a more conscious and enlightened future for us all.
Residents can support the riders in two ways: greet them and learn more at one of the many support stations that will be set up along the 350 kilometers route, and contact Massachusetts politicians, encouraging them to push hard for action to reach 350ppm.
For more information about specific events and the support station locations contact Rod Stanbrook at 413-329-7570 and visit www.350.org. |
