Stage 2: breathtaking views as we cross the National Park of Monfragüe!
We leave Castille-León, because the second stage takes us to Extremadura. The journey to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Caceres, final stop of this stage, was long but beautiful. Nature has been the main feature as we have crossed the spectacular Jerte valley, famous for its cherries and the beautiful Monfragüe National Park, where some surprised deer have witnessed our peloton.
Today we have traveled a longer distance than yesterday, 107 km, which gave us time to reflect on the importance of engaging society in climate action and on the best ways to communicate this problem. The general public and social organisations should implement the values and habits that are crucial to solve the climatic emergency we are in. Each individual has a key role to play as it is the sum of millions of small actions what makes a difference. But how do we involve all stakeholders in climate action? Drivers that promote a change in social behaviour (education, awareness, communication), are as essential as good policies to achieve exponential solutions.
I think those at COP25 would do well in having children in mind when overwhelmed by the complexity of the solution. When I explained my 5-year-old twins why the planet is warming up, they had no doubt: “if we know it is because we are polluting, let’s just stop polluting.Adela Conchado - Far&Sound
The population is aware of climate change, but does not know how to act. We urgently need to change habits in our everyday life. As leaders, we must provide citizens with tools and example to help them in this challenge. Each gesture, however small, counts.Elena Moreno Zaldibar - Basque Government
Times have changed: society and youth worry about climate change and are asking governments to act. But finding solutions is not always easy. We, experts, are best placed to help bridging gaps and finding solutions.Lourdes Sanchez - IISD
Education is the start of the conversion to a civilization more respectful with the people and with the planet. And education starts in childhood, but does not end until the end of our lives.Susana Lagüera López - University of Salamanca