George Monbiot, The Guardian.
The most likely situation is that we have no more than a decade to implement massive cuts in human - originated carbon emissions - probably in the region of 90 % from current levels.
Mark Lynas, Corporate Watch, Spring 2000.
Critical Mass is a bicycle demonstration promoting the bicycle.
Cycling is the most environment-friendly form of transport there is. Not only do cyclists produce no pollution at all but cycling is an excellent way to keep fit and healthy (and thus reduce the strain on the underfunded NHS).
But in Sheffield many people are put off cycling because of heavy traffic and polluted air. Sheffield is a city designed for cars (albeit badly). Sheffield Council promotes car use by continually allowing developments which encourage more car use: drive-through restaurants, modern supermarkets and out of town shopping centres.
This means that both cycling and driving in Sheffield are a nightmare. The roads are constantly altered in futile attempts to accomodate more and more cars. Everyone suffers as does our rapidly deteriorating environment. The Tinsley area of Sheffield is one of the most polluted areas in the country. Recent research in European cities showed that more people die from traffic pollution than from traffic accidents. Last year research from climatolgists revealed that if carbon emissions continue as present rapid temperature changes will cause the tropical rainforests (the lungs of the world!) to start dying out in just 100 years time.
Sheffield could be a city with beautiful, quiet tree-lined cycle lanes and fast, free public transport. Instead Sheffield is having a 1000 space underground carpark built right in the middle of the city centre. Why is money available for such environmently damaging projects but not for cycle lanes? Is it because our economic system always puts profits before people and planet?
Today’s bike ride is part of Mayday 2000 which is a worldwide weekend of action in recognition that the global capitalist system, based on the exploitation of people and planet, is at the root of social and ecological troubles today.
Sheffield’s main event will be a Carnival at Barker’s Pool (Cole Bros.) at 2pm. Feel free to come and join in. For more info see the web site:
www.sheffieldmayday.ukf.net