TJN and the round-the-world cyclist

The great American satirist Tom Lehrer, whose work we blogged last week, famously said "life is like a sewer, you get out of it what you put into it." Faced with crises ranging from financial meltdowns to climate change, from imminent peak oil to horrendous poverty and inequality, it's tempting to adopt the ostrich position. A minority, have chosen the harder route of facing the issues head on, analysing the roots of the problems, and seeking durable solutions.

In this spirit, we applaud the spirit of Julian Sayarer who will be setting off from Rouen Cathedral in France on 10th June 2009 in an attempt to set a new world record for circumnavigating the world. His route is here - do wish him well and offer him your support if he comes to your neighbourhood. Julian wants to draw attention to a small number of organisations which he feels are tackling the core issues. This is what he says:

"This ride is not for charity, with it I hope to raise an awareness rather than funds. These organisations work to promote a healthier and fairer society, but differ from many charities in that they do not aim to support any obvious victim, rather, their work looks to better the society that we all inhabit together. Without the sentimental impact enjoyed by other charitable causes, much of their campaigning and hard work risks going unnoticed."

Our friends at the new economics foundation are listed. So is the Campaign for Real Ale. We are proud that the Tax Justice Network has been selected.

We have invited Julian to blog his thoughts and observations along the route. And, of course, we wish him a following wind and every success with his epic journey.