Editorial photo #13951825 Environmental Issue

Gironde: Human Chain To Protect The Ciron Valley

People place a banner on a hedge as more than 1,000 individuals gather in the village of Bernos-Beaulac, Gironde, France, on July 4, 2026. The gathering forms a human chain organized by the collectives 'LGV NINA' ('LGV not here nor elsewhere') and 'LGV Non Merci' ('LGV No thanks') to protest against the LNSO high-speed train project in the Ciron Valley. The Ciron Valley is noted by scientists for its biodiversity, featuring a beech forest that is a relic of prehistoric times and has remained unchanged for over 40,000 years. The SNCF, France's national railway company, plans to construct the LNSO high-speed train line between Bordeaux and Toulouse, which would divide the valley into four parts. Opponents of the project express concern over the potential impact on this unique ecosystem. (Photo by Alain Pitton/NurPhoto)