Editorial photo #13951829 Environmental Issue

Gironde: Human Chain To Protect The Ciron Valley

People hold placards reading 'LGV no Thanks' and 'Forest Yes Thanks' in Bernos-Beaulac, France, on July 4, 2026. More than 1,000 people gather in the village 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, located in the 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, the national railway company of France, plans to construct the LNSO high-speed train line between Bordeaux and Toulouse, which would involve dividing the valley with three high-speed railways and 17 viaducts. Local opponents express concern about the potential impact on this distinctive environment. (Photo by Alain Pitton/NurPhoto)