Kip Pierson Photography: Brita Climate Ride 2009 - Day 1 (New York City to Princeton, NJ)

Day 1 (45 miles): You and your fellow Climate Riders will depart from Manhattan’s spectacular urban landscape, riding en masse through New York City. A ferry awaits you to transport our group across the Hudson River to Atlantic Highlands, NJ. After disembarking from the ferry, we hop on our bikes and pedal into rural countryside, revealing why New Jersey is called the Garden State. Small farms abound and you will enjoy quiet roads on the way to tonight’s destination, Princeton, NJ, home to Princeton University.

Another year has flown by and I'm already back behind the wheel for another go at Climate Ride. This year's version will only be bigger and better, but with a smaller impact on the environment. In terms of those "green folks" -- a smaller carbon footprint. There's even a new route for the 2nd half of day 4 which I'm excited about, but even more exciting to me is the fact that I'm actually at the start this year in NY. Last year I joined the group late on Day 1 in Princeton, but now I'm downtown with the most exciting and uplifting bike ride ever: BRITA CLIMATE RIDE 2009.

What do climate change, energy, and the environment have to do with me? Can I make a difference?

It’s on the news every night, but most Americans still do not feel connected to the issue that could cause billions of dollars in environmental damage, massive societal upheaval, war, and famine. New research shows that if present trends continue, "the total cost of climate change will be as high as 3.6 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). Four global warming impacts alone -- hurricane damage, real estate losses, energy costs, and water costs -- will come with a price tag of 1.8 percent of U.S. GDP, or almost $1.9 trillion annually (in today's dollars) by 2100." That is why it is vital to raise awareness and increase our understanding of climate change. You can begin by supporting the work of Climate Ride’s non-profit beneficiaries.

We ride to support Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, Focus the Nation, and Clean Air – Cool Planet. Your fundraising helps these beneficiaries continue to provide the critical services and education needed to address climate and energy issues. Right now, your fundraising and your effort to raise awareness are more critical than ever. Learn more about our beneficiary projects here.

Climate change and our energy future are serious issues and we need a wake up call--changing our lifestyles to include more biking and less oil-induced gluttony is one step in the right direction. Solving our climate change and energy problems will improve our lives.

We can create communities with cleaner air, where we drive efficient cars and live and work in energy-saving, healthy buildings. If you demand it, our legislators and business community will promote clean energy and smarter transportation systems. By joining Climate Ride, you can take a step in this direction. Turn off the oil I.V. drip, ditch your car and join us for a week of pedal power—all for a good cause. This transformative bicycling event is ideal for anyone who believes that change is possible and that America can take the lead in a green economy.

The mission of Climate Ride is to create dynamic events that inspire and empower citizens to work toward a new energy future.

The Goals:

Raise money for groundbreaking climate, energy, and bicycle-related projects and organizations.
Increase awareness of climate change, renewable energy, and green jobs among participants, donors, sponsors, and the general public.
Create multiple Climate Rides that galvanize a worldwide network of Climate Riders.
Motivate individuals to take responsibility for reducing their carbon and energy footprint.
Promote the bicycle as a viable, carbon-free, healthy, and fun method of transportation.

So...in words that's what Climate Ride is about. But, here's what Climate Ride is in pictures.