Danish Ambassador to China Friis Arne Petersen (left) speaks
On the morning of the 43rd Earth Day, a “Green Cycling” event organized by the Danish Embassy was launched in Beijing. The event was divided into two parts: a 3-kilometer ride around Sanlitun and a 10-kilometer ride around the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. A total of 150 environmental advocates, including diplomats from various countries and Chinese actor Liu Ye, participated in the activity.
Danish Ambassador to China Friis Arne Petersen stated that on the occasion of Denmark assuming the rotating presidency of the European Union, the Danish Embassy organized the “Green Cycling” event to promote green transportation methods and sustainable solutions, while also raising awareness about climate issues. Petersen said that with the world’s largest population and rapid economic growth, China faces some pressure in achieving its current energy goals. I believe China can actively learn from the experiences of Denmark and the EU to tackle this challenge—finding a uniquely Chinese approach that is both acceptable and appealing to the country, in order to address key environmental issues.
Cycling has become synonymous with sustainability worldwide. Liu Ye expressed strong support for cycling as a mode of transport, summarizing its four advantages: safety, convenience, affordability, and zero carbon dioxide emissions.
In addition, in the weeks leading up to the “Green Cycling” event, Petersen’s bicycle was auctioned off for 30,000 yuan. At the event, Petersen personally donated 10,000 yuan from the proceeds to the non-governmental organization Bike Better, which promotes cycling lifestyles. A representative from Bike Better stated that the funds would be used to promote cycling activities in China and to research Beijing’s cycling culture.