Climate Classic participants raise €113,982 for water-rich nature reserves
More than 2,000 cyclists from across the country rode the Climate Classic on Friday, June 21. Once again this year, many water management professionals were among them. The route ran from Breda, via De Bilt, to Noorderzijlvest Water Authority Groningen. Participants in the climate bike ride aim to raise awareness about the consequences of climate change. They also raised money for Wetlands International, an organisation to the conservation and restoration of wetland nature areas.
Climate adaptation is a top priority
The cyclists were welcomed by dyke reeve van der Schaaf and Provincial Executive Member Johan Hamster (Province of Groningen). Climate adaptation and reducingCO2 emissions are high on the agenda for both the water authority the province. Afterward, together with the organisation the Climate Classic, they presented a symbolic cheque the program director of Wetlands International. Following that, the dyke reeve the deputy presented medals to cyclists who had finished the race.
Water Authorities and Climate Change
The Climate Classic is an initiative of Cycling 4 Climate. This organisation raise awareness about the climate crisis. Roeland van der Schaaf: “Water authorities deal with the consequences of climate change every day. We see it happening all around us, in a soggy spring. Many people experienced disruptions. And it’s entirely possible that we’ll face drought again later this year. That unpredictability will only continue to increase in the future. Together with other governments, organizations, and residents, we’ll have to make careful decisions to keep our region livable.”
Exclusive: Fundraising Campaign for Wetlands International
A new feature of this year’s Climate Classic was that participants could seek sponsorships. The cyclists raised a total of 113,982 euros. Van der Schaaf said, “Our partnership with Wetlands International is very timely for us. Preserving and restoring wetlands is a top priority for us. The same is true for the province of Groningen. It’s great that we’re working together on this.”
