The baton passed through the Capital yesterday (10 June) in the latest stage of the 2,436km journey from Ben Nevis to Big Ben.
The Running Out of Time relay takes place in 210 stages, with participants walking, cycling, kayaking, climbing, swimming, and surfing the baton across Britain over 29 days. It is part of a worldwide initiative to raise awareness of and inspire action on climate and nature issues.
The relay began the Edinburgh leg at St Thomas of Acquins High School before travelling by foot to Roseburn Primary School. A group of pupils then travelled by bike, with the baton, along the City Centre West East Link to Haymarket where it was handed to Transport and Environment Convener Scott Arthur.
Following a short journey by tram to Princes Street, the relay team took a bus to the final stop at the Meadows. The baton was passed to Kenny Alexander who began his cycle to Carlise for the next stage of the relay.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Scott Arthur, said:
I’m delighted to welcome the Running Out of Time relay back to Edinburgh for a second year. By using sustainable transport to carry the baton from Murrayfield to the Meadows, we’re demonstrating our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable travel options.
Edinburgh has always taken a lead on climate issues and our fantastic public transport system is testament to this. By investing in projects to support more sustainable travel by foot, bike, or public transport – whether it’s completing the tram line to Newhaven or improving walking and cycling routes – we’re paving the way to achieve our Net Zero 2030 goals.
Running Out of Time co-founder Dan Thompson said:
We’re delighted and excited to be working with The City of Edinburgh Council again on their work towards net zero by 2030 and, in particular, to be helping to highlight all the active and public transport options there are in Edinburgh and the contribution they make to a more sustainable future.