Editorial photo #13951826 Environmental Issue

Gironde: Human Chain To Protect The Ciron Valley

People hold placards reading 'No to the LGV' and 'Yes to the forest' in Bernos-Beaulac, France, on July 4, 2026. More than 1,000 people gather to form a human chain organized by the collectives 'LGV NINA' and 'LGV Non Merci' to protest against the LNSO high-speed train project in the Ciron Valley, Gironde department. The Ciron Valley is noted by scientists for its biodiversity, featuring a beech forest that is a relic of prehistoric times. The ecosystem in this valley has remained unchanged for more than 40,000 years and is considered unique. 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 express concern about the potential impact of three high-speed railways and 17 viaducts across the Ciron Valley. (Photo by Alain Pitton/NurPhoto)