Due to its popularity last summer, The World Naked Bike Ride took place again this year. The UK protest featured people wearing nothing but their bicycles (OK, some wore body paint and wigs) in a large-scale visual protest against global car dependency. Participation doubled from that of last year's events! Now in its third year, the naked cycling initiative draws awareness to the environmental benefits of cycling.
"We had twice as many people as last year, and the atmosphere has been fantastic," said Duncan Blinkhorn, who helped co-ordinate the event.
And yes, you better believe it, people were fully naked, even upon approval of Sussex Police.
"In June 2008, in cities around the world, people will be riding bikes naked to celebrate cycling and the human body," the summary of the above YouTube video explains. "The World Naked Bike Ride demonstrates the vulnerability of cyclists on the road and is a protest against car culture."
With gas prices skyrocketing this year, over 500 people were willing to hop aboard to pedal for the cause. Next week's even in London should bring in even more participants!
World Naked Bike Rides
Participation Doubles
Trend Themes
1. Naked Activism - A trend of using nudity as a form of protest to draw attention to social or environmental causes, creating disruptive opportunities for companies to support and promote these movements
2. Alternative Transportation - A trend of using bicycles and other forms of non-motorized transportation as a way to reduce the negative environmental impacts of car dependency, creating disruptive opportunities for companies to innovate in the transportation and mobility industry
3. Increased Environmental Consciousness - A trend of people becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their actions and seeking out ways to reduce their carbon footprint, creating disruptive opportunities for companies to offer eco-friendly products and services
Industry Implications
1. Sustainable Transportation - An industry that focuses on providing eco-friendly transportation solutions for consumers and businesses which can take advantage of the growing trend towards non-motorized forms of transportation
2. Sustainable Fashion and Beauty - An industry that focuses on creating environmentally-friendly fashion and beauty products to meet the increased demand for sustainable and ethical products
3. Sustainable Tourism - An industry that focuses on providing eco-friendly and socially responsible travel options to meet the growing demand for sustainable tourism experiences