The organizers describe Climate Ride as the “first multi-day, multi-city bicycle tour where pedal strokes help raise money and awareness for a future powered by renewable energy and a green economyâ€. The 2010 event raised funds for several non-profits, including Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, Green America, and 1Sky.
Climate Ride California 2010, which is part of the same series of events, took place last month, when than 100 cyclists rode from Eureka, California to San Francisco. The route covered 320 miles and began in California’s Redwood Empire and meandered along the Pacific Coast until it finally got to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.
“With recent environmental disasters and the climate bill stalled on Capitol Hill, we need more Americans directly involved in this conversation. Climate Ride brings together environmental leaders and everyday people who care about clean energy for five days of inspiration, community and amazing cycling. Climate Riders have the opportunity to recharge, connect and bring a green message back to their own communitiesâ€, said Caeli Quinn, co-founder and director of Climate Ride.
Each night at the campsites, riders were treated to after-dinner lectures from artists, scientists, and activists who share their personal efforts to address climate and energy issues.
A similar program is promised for the NYC-DC ride. The organizers say it includes cycling jersey, campsites, luggage transfer, road support, meals, bike mechanics, bike guides and the nightly expert speaker series.
And the speaker series is what makes the event stand out, says co-founder and director, Geraldine Carter. “This is the first climate conference on wheels. Our riders pedal all day and then have the opportunity to hear from some of the brightest minds in conservation, climate change and renewable energy in the evening. Our riders finish Brita Climate Ride with new understanding of climate issues and are inspired to rally friends and family to help resolve the most important issue facing humanity.â€
As one would expect, the whole support apparatus of the event has impeccable green credentials. Participants get full carbon offsets, hybrid support vehicles and zero-waste catering as some of the measures in place to bolster its green credentials.
In order to register, visit the official website. Registration includes a personal fundraising web page, training/logistical support and access to a nationwide network of Climate Riders. Each Climate Rider pays a registration fee of $75 and then fundraises at least $2,400. The event will be followed by the West Coast edition which will take place in September 2011 from Fortuna, California (near Eureka) to San Francisco.
