Dutch activist marching from Utrecht to Paris climate summit

Environmentalist Marjan Minnesma began a 580 kilometer hike from the city of Utrecht to the 2015 Paris Climate Conference, COP21. As the director of sustainability NGO Urgenda, Minnesma is highlighting the need for action to prevent dangerous, irreversible climate change and ensure a livable earth for future generations. Among those joining her on the walk are former ESA astronaut Andre Kuipers, entertainer Katja Schuurman, comedian Pieter Derks, and social entrepreneur Willemijn Verloop. Climate experts as well as supermarket and energy company directors are also said to be joining. The public has an open invitation to join Minnesma on The Climate Miles Walk for any duration. Minnesma said that with this tour the group wants to send a signal of urgency to the negotiators at the climate summit. At the same time, she wants to show the community that climate change is a problem for everyone, not just major players, reported broadcaster NOS. While she does not expect the death of fossil fuels to come out of COP21, she does hope the larger countries, like China, will take great strides to reduce their emissions and improve air quality. She optimistically noted that China is rapidly expanding its use of solar power. Daily updates on The Climate Miles Walk can be seen on NPO 2 following Nieuwsuur. The updates will air at 11 p.m. through November 28.