The Cycling for Sustainability Team Rides Into Kingston

Hearthmakers Energy Cooperative and the Kingston Bicycle Advisory Committee are working to bring a team of cyclists who are riding across Canada to the Kingston area on Monday, Aug 5, 2002. There will be cycling and performance events where the cyclists from all over Canada and Australia will challenge our thoughts about issues surrounding sustainable transportation and organic foods.

Cycling for Sustainability (C4S) is a not-for-profit organization which seeks to promote sustainable lifestyle choices that Canadian citizens can incorporate into their daily lives. C4S Canada is an extension of Cycling for Sustainability Australia, which took place in 2000, and the Climate Change Caravan which took place in 2001. C4S Canada started in Vancouver on May 5 and intends to reach its final destination in St. John's, Newfoundland on September 10. The group consists of a diverse range of participants from Australia, United States, and Canada; by traveling to communities throughout Canada, they are raising awareness of sustainable solutions to climate change, transportation, and conventional farming, and are addressing the environmental, economic, and social impacts of these activities. C4S is also drawing attention to the Kyoto Protocol ratification process, the contamination of organic crops via cross-pollination with nearby genetically modified species and airborne pesticide residues, as well as the use of hemp as an alternative cash crop.

The cyclists will be in Kingston on the evening of August 5. On the August 6, members of the Kingston community have an opportunity to meet the group and to participate in various events. At 7pm the group will present Dr. Suess's The Lorax with an informal discussion about the issues being presented in their campaign. This presentation will take place at the Sleepless Goat Café at 91 Princess St. Everyone is welcome! The morning of Wednesday August 7 will present an excellent opportunity to get active with the C4S group: ride out of town and as far as Merrickville if you want! They will be heading out at 9am sharp from St. Andrews church. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and some food for your ride!

For more information about these events, please contact us.