Bangladeshi cyclist warns of climate change

By Rachel Lee

Bangladeshi cyclist Mohammad Abul Hossain launched a campaign against HIV/AIDS and climate change in Seoul on June 15.

With the key message “Combating against HIV/AIDS, Save Environment, Save Life,” Hossain began a venture around the world in February.

“I don’t want to see the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people suffer more,” the cyclist said.

“During the period of advocacy on my journey, I will meet philanthropic organizations, NGO’s, media agencies and young climate change activists.”

He said the environmental effects of climate change will increase extreme weather, including destructive storms, drought and floods, and produce a growing crisis with economies, health and safety.

“Climate change is also driving many of the world’s poorest people dangerously close to the edge of survival,” Hossain said.

He chose bicycling because he believed it was the “easiest and cheapest way to reach people door to door.”

“The bicycle is most convenient when it comes to parking or making stopovers,” he said.

“Throughout my journey, I might suddenly come across new places where I may decide to work on my campaign. These unplanned stops at any place at anytime are most feasible if I am on my bicycle.”