David Bailey
David's page
Fundraising for Friends of the Earth Charitable Trust
Story
Hi everyone
I performed a cycle ride from London to Edinburgh from the 6th to the 11th May to raise funds for Friends of the Earth Trust. To date, I have raised 94% of the target funding of £1600. I took part on behalf of Friends of the Earth, of which I am an active member.
It was a fantastic adventure and something to truly remember. The weather ranged from warm and sunny to heavy rain with a cold wind. There was one occasion when I was so cold I couldn't wait to get to the next rest stop. This was when we were cycling over the moors in in East Lothian. This area was extremely steep along with the Yorkshire Moors and contrasted with the flat terrain of the Cambridgeshire/Lincolnshire fens.
There were three rest stops each day before the final daily destination. Many cyclists joined for a day at various stages. Some did longer stints. Altogether there were 25 of us who performed the entire length of the journey.
The training schedule in the run up to the ride kept me busy, with twice weekly visits to the gym, 20-30 mile cycle rides during weekdays and 60-90 rides at weekends. · I am most concerned about atmospheric pollution from industry, excess motor traffic and pollution run offs which contaminate our rivers. FOE continually campaigns for improved, affordable public transport, better conditions for walking and cycling, more freight movement by rail, ‘greener’, cleaner technologies for industry and cleaner more fuel efficient motor vehicles.
Any amount you would like to offer would be most gratefully received.
For more information go to www.foe.co.uk/big_green_bike_ride_30630.html
All the best
David
· I am concerned about food security. A handful of multinationals have control of much of the world’s food systems. This tends to put profit before the needs of people resulting in farmers, particularly in developing countries being over exploited and pesticide residues in our food which can seriously harm our health. A few biotechnology industries have created genetically modified crops claiming to ‘feed the world’ and reduce pesticide use. However this technology has been shown to be flawed resulting in environmental damage and victimisation of many farmers. ‘Food miles’ are also a problem, exacerbating climate change with so much food flown huge distances. Friends of the Earth campaigns for more localised food production as well as localised industries and more affordable organic food which benefits human health and the environment.
· I am concerned about the amount of waste that is being produced and so much that has gone to landfill with serious implications. Incinerators also pose a problem resulting in serious air pollution and toxic bottom ash. Friends of the Earth has been a key figure in the campaign for doorstep recycling and continues to lobby decision makers for even higher standards of recycling which is so important for the sake of the planet and human health.
Friends of the Earth have made a considerable number of achievements towards a better world influencing key decision makers. For more information visit www.foe.co.uk
All the best
David