Bamboo biker riding for global water crisis
After 25,000km, 21 countries and 14 months, a French environmentalist has arrived in Timaru to raise awareness of the global water crisis.
Theo Rohfritsch, 24, has been cycling around the world on a sustainable bike made of bamboo for more than year.
New Zealand is the last leg of his journey, which saw him leave Auckland at the end of August bound for his final destination of Invercargill.
He arrived in Timaru on Tuesday afternoon, and will speak at a Transition Timaru event at the St Johns Hall at 7.30pm on Wednesday night.
He will leave town on Thursday to continue his journey south.
He hopes his journey will raise awareness of the importance of clean water and inspire people to take action.
‘‘Water is something many of us take for granted, yet clean, safe drinking water is key to healthy lifestyles,’’ he said.
‘‘I can’t wait to share this message with a generation of young Kiwis on my journey through your beautiful country in my quest for change to be made to help combat the global water crisis.’’
According to the World Economic Forum, the water crisis is the number one global risk based on impact to society.
One third of the world’s population do not have access to adequate water sanitation, and more than 650 million people do not have access to safe drinking water.
The challenge is part of the KPMG-sponsored initiative Cycle for Water.
International global head of citizenship Lord Michael Hastings has travelled to New Zealand to support Rohfritsch.
‘‘Theo’s endurance and determination in finishing this physical effort in New Zealand and changing how we think about and use water is humbling; both in his energy and passion at the outcomes.’’