Hundreds of cyclists in Edinburgh are gearing up to pedal through the city streets dressed as native Scottish animals this Saturday. The event, organized by Critical Mass Edinburgh, aims to showcase the positive connection between cycling and nature while promoting a rewilding charter.
Dubbed ‘A Ride on the Re-Wild Side’, the mass cycle will commence at 2pm on Middle Meadow Walk and culminate at The Parade Ground in Holyrood Park. Participants are encouraged to don costumes of their favorite Scottish animals and adorn their bikes to embrace the rewilding spirit for the day.
The Rewilding Nation Charter, already endorsed by thousands across Scotland, advocates for the country to become the world’s first rewilding nation by restoring nature across 30% of its land and seas. This initiative seeks to address the alarming decline of biodiversity in Scotland and raise awareness about the necessity for large-scale nature recovery efforts.
Karen Blackport, Co-Convenor of the Scottish Rewilding Alliance, stresses the urgency of the situation by highlighting the imbalance between the bustling roads filled with cars and the diminishing wildlife in Scotland. The colorful cycling event aims to shed light on the pressing issue of biodiversity loss and emphasize the critical role rewilding plays in combating the nature crisis.
The festive cycle comes ahead of the Scottish Rewilding Alliance’s presentation of the Rewilding Nation Charter to the government, scheduled for December 3rd. The campaign has garnered significant support from various sectors, including acclaimed actor Brian Cox, who recently endorsed the initiative.
To join the movement and show solidarity with Scotland’s nature recovery efforts, individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to sign the Rewilding Nation Charter at rewild.scot/charter. By participating in events like ‘A Ride on the Re-Wild Side’, the public can contribute to the collective goal of safeguarding Scotland’s natural heritage for future generations.
