Protests alone don’t create solutions. Protests with highly organized, coordinated efforts, with effective demands and a message clearly delivered can be the start of something good. That’s exactly what happened at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show (IAA).
In a coordinated effort to demand an end to combustion engines and shift to more environmentally friendly emissions-free vehicles, Cyclists, Scientists, and Climate Advocates blocked the entrance to one of the world’s most important auto shows in mid-September. Their key concern is the lack of commitment from automakers to creating climate-friendly vehicles – as demonstrated by the fact that less than 25% of the new cars displayed at IAA are using advanced technology that improves their emissions performance.
The protest brought the city to a crawl, as cyclists made their way on several major motorways to the IAA. It brought tremendous attention to the global citizen and transportation consumer’s desire for change. This level of commitment can not go unnoticed by leaders, lawmakers and auto manufacturers. German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, opened the show with a warning about the climate crisis and asked automakers to prioritize producing affordable and sustainable electric vehicles.
Feeling inspired? What can you do to be part of the solution to the climate crisis?
