Editorial photo #13951841 Environmental Issue

Gironde: Human Chain To Protect The Ciron Valley

A placard reads 'Forest, Yes thanks' as more than 1,000 people gather in the village of Bernos-Beaulac, Gironde, France, on July 4, 2026, to form a human chain. The event is 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. 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 of the project express concerns about the potential impact on this unique environment. (Photo by Alain Pitton/NurPhoto)