The letter will be transported by bicycle to COP31 in Turkey by David Mendes, president of Viana Ciclável. The journey, which began this Monday in front of the City Council, aims to deliver the commitment at the opening of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference. The symbolic departure was supported by the Mayor, Luís Nobre, and the Councillor for Mobility, Fabíola Oliveira.
David Mendes represents Viana Ciclável in an initiative that will cover 4,700 kilometers, 11 countries, and two ferry crossings. The mission is based on the principles of the COP Bike Ride and aims to demonstrate the feasibility of efficient, low-environmental-impact mobility by rethinking transport systems. The initiative also involves the partnership of the International Degrowth Network and MUBi.
“"This is a good opportunity to draw attention to the topic of cycling mobility. It is important for citizens to feel safe when using this means of transport. If we transfer from cars to bicycles, in terms of emissions, it is an immense opportunity for reduction. Besides the benefits for our health, there are all the benefits for the environment."
The Mayor praised the "significant exercise of citizenship" and highlighted the need for a "cultural change" that includes sharing space and mutual respect between cyclists and car drivers.
In the Letter of Commitment, the Viana do Castelo City Council reaffirms its commitment to "leverage cycling as a strategic tool in climate protection and the continuous improvement of quality of life". Aligned with the objectives of COP 31 Ride and the sustainability vision of COP31, the municipality assumes a leading role in the energy transition and decarbonization of transport.
The municipality commits to 10 proposals to boost cycling in climate protection, including the completion of a structural cycling network by 2030, the reduction of car traffic, the creation of exclusive pedestrian and cycling zones, the expansion of bicycle parking, the organization of mass cycling events, user training, stimulation of the cycling economic sector, development of urban logistics with cargo bikes, and the implementation of monitoring indicators.
Mayor Luís Nobre states in the letter that "together, we will transform our territory into an international benchmark in sustainable mobility, public health, and climate resilience".
