"Three-fifty is the goal!"

[mount_oregano]

The safe level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is 350 parts per million. More than that and we get climate change: http://www.350.org/about/science. Right now, we're at 390 parts per million. It's time not just to stop, but to go backwards.

On October 24, more than 5200 events in 181 countries marked that goal as part of the 350 Day of Action. Here in Madrid, three organizations — Emisióncero (Zero Emissions), The Climate Project Spain, and Democrats Abroad Spain — jointly organized a Carrera ContraCO2rriente/March Backwards in downtown Madrid.

Participants marched backwards 350 meters down Fuencarral Street, a pedestrian area and an example of sustainable city living. Children happily led the way.

Adults followed more slowly.

"¡Tres ciencuenta es la meta!"

The backwards march entertained Saturday shoppers and tourists, and attracted media attention.

At the end, marchers gathered beneath the centuries-old olive tree at the Mercado de Fuencarral, and everyone received a olive sapling.

— Sue Burke