France has banned protests scheduled during the UN climate summit (COP 21) because of the terrorist threat, and consequently Climate Express is considering a protest march in Belgium. “We are looking at feasibility,” pointed out the organisation on Wednesday evening. The civic group is disappointed by the decision of the French authorities.
Climate protests were scheduled in Paris for November 29th, eve of the opening of COP 21, and on December 12th, at the end of negotiations. But last Friday’s attacks mean the French government has banned them.
Belgian organisation Climate Express had planned to leave Belgium for Paris by train, bus, and bicycle; it is disappointed but already looking at other options. It is hoping to organise a protest in Belgium. “We have seen rising enthusiasm in the past few months. Over 9,000 Belgians were ready to travel in support of climate issues,” highlighted a leader of the organisation. “More than ever, we need to promote an international climate agreement which is both ambitious and mandatory. What is currently on offer would lead to a rise in temperatures of 2.7 degrees worldwide yet scientists believe it is crucial the increase does not exceed 1.5 degrees.”
The “cycling champions for the planet” organised by Climate Express has not been cancelled. Some 330 cyclists will leave Belgium from November 24th onwards to bring the group’s demands to Paris by the sweat of their brows.
(Source: Belga)
