Climate Change Caravan
In the summer of 2001, the Climate Change Caravan cycled across Canada to engage Canadians on the issue of climate change. Although the trip started in Tofino, British Columbia, the initiative began with a group of students from Mount Allison University. The group received considerable support from Leadership Mount Allison and from Sackville businesses and citizens.
Accompanying the cyclists on the trip was a bright red vegetable oil powered bus. The bus (painted red to symbolize the urgency of addressing climate change) served to educate the public about fuel alternatives and to support the cyclists on their long journey. One of the main goals of the trip was to have Canadians sign onto "the BET". The BET is that Canadians can meet the 50% reduction in household greenhouse gas emissions scientists say is necessary to stabilize the climate. The BET is centered entirely around individual action - requiring Canadians to commit to seven out of twelve steps (outlined at http://www.thebet.ca ) that will benefit the climate.
The Climate Change Caravan made frequent stops on their way across Canada to present in schools, lobby government, provide tours of the bus, and add to their group of cyclists. They challenged countless Canadians to the BET. On September 20, 2001, after 137 days on the road, they wrapped up their trip in Halifax. Though their journey is complete, the message they brought to Canadians continues to resonate.