The French capital is preparing for COP21, what many are anticipating will be the most important climate conference since Kyoto. Over 150 countries, representing 90% of the world's emissions, have already put their greenhouse gas curbing pledges on the table and the French diplomatic service has launched an unprecedented campaign to hammer out a deal in Paris. Here are some of the things you can see on the ground in Paris in preparation for the event.
Back in September, Paris hosted its first car free day. Thirty percent of the city’s roads were closed to vehicle traffic, reducing noise and air pollution and providing safe, comfortable access to pedestrians and cyclists. Currently, the walls of the foreign ministry, a stately 19th-century building on the banks of the Seine, are festooned in banners announcing the upcoming event and the Eiffel Tower is lit up at night with climate slogans. During the conference, the Eiffel Tower will be transformed into an interactive art piece, reflecting the rhythm of beating hearts around the world through blossoming trees.
Here’s hoping the outcome is as spectacular as the preparations!