All in Environment
During the 200 years since its invention, the bicycle's popularity has ebbed and flowed. For almost a century, we've suffered the unforeseen consequences of a car-consumed culture. But now, because of a global pandemic, the transformative power of the bike is starting to take hold.
As Robin Wall Kimmerer says, plants mirror changes in culture and ownership of land—and this has long been true for the UK, where pushing out nature has been seen as a means to an end. Now we wonder: can we advocate for better management and restoration of the landscapes we ride in?
Typically, in the US, it takes around 8-10 years to get a bike lane built(!) By lobbying local and national government, PeopleForBikes is trying to ensure bikes are prioritized to improve Americans’ health, connect communities, boost economies and protect the planet.
Skiing isn't the only sport feeling the direct impacts of climate breakdown. My latest piece for Mpora explores the relationship between the climate crisis and Squamish's iconic landmark, the Stawamus Chief, and its local (and global) climbing fanbase.
´As easy as burying our heads in the sand can be, the unfortunate truth is we’re in the middle of a self-created shit storm: climate breakdown, biodiversity loss, social injustice - oh, and a pandemic thrown in there for good measure. It’s not enough to say we care about the places we ride anymore. We need action. And we need it now.’
Spending so much time outdoors, it’s hard not to feel a sense of responsibility for our environment. When we’re out hiking, biking, skiing or climbing in our natural playgrounds day in day out, we notice changes…
Storytelling plays a vital role in activism. It’s how we humanise issues and create emotions that fuel and drive meaningful action. It’s been such a pleasure to work on a new project with Patagonia - a brand I’ve always admired for their conviction in putting story above product.
As we regain some form of momentum in the coming weeks, changing rhythm again, it’s important we listen to what has been emerging within this pause. To hear our deep knowing that tells us the health of humanity is undeniably linked to the health of our planet.
For me, the best remedy for our situation is to just be present. During times of hardship, living in the present moment offers us all a comforting balm, outside of past grievances or future worries. A place of acceptance for what is now - although it’s not always that easy.
