Jenna’s connection with eXXpedition goes back to 2014, when she joined our inaugural Atlantic voyage as a crew member. Since then, we’ve had the privilege of collaborating closely with her, implementing her Circularity Assessment Protocol (CAP) in various locations worldwide, including during our Maldives SHiFT project. Her Marine Debris Tracker app continues to be an essential tool, empowering people globally to log and monitor litter and marine debris.

Jenna’s expertise, innovation, and dedication make her a true force of nature in the fight against marine pollution, and we were thrilled to catch up with her and share her remarkable journey and insights with you!

Tell us a bit about yourself? 

My name is Jenna and I’m a professor of Environmental Engineering at the University of Georgia. I grew up between two worlds, a small rural town in Minnesota and the beaches of Florida, which gave me an interesting combination of experiences as a child. 

Photo Credit: Dorothy Kozlowski

When I was young, I read ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ by Madeleine L ‘Engle. There’s a part in it where the kids look at their mum and she is in her laboratory connected to their house, stirring stew over a Bunsen burner. For some reason that always stuck with me. Before that, I knew I wanted to be a scientist, but I also knew I wanted to be a mum. I wasn’t sure if I could be both because I had not seen examples of how a woman would juggle being a scientist and a mum, but that moment of the book inspired me to imagine it is possible to integrate these two roles. I am grateful every day that I get to be both a researcher and a mom to two amazing kids!

How did you become an environmental engineer? 

As a child, I did not know what an engineer did or that I could even be one, but I picked environmental engineering science as my major because I wanted to do environmental science so I figured that was close enough. I really had no idea what the engineering aspect of that was going to be. And it was much harder than I anticipated, but luckily I always loved math. Because I never intended to take engineering as a major, I call myself an ‘accidental engineer’.

“Growing up I also remember this feeling of ‘if they can do it, I can do it’.”

Growing up I also remember this feeling of ‘if they can do it, I can do it’. If someone was doing something like getting their PhD or taking a hard class and passing it, I couldn’t see a reason why I couldn’t do it too –  and it certainly never crossed my mind that I couldn’t do it because I’m a woman.

I was inspired by one of my professors to do a PHD focusing on solid waste management.

In lectures, he would discuss current events with solid waste and I was fascinated by how there was this complex human component to managing solid waste. It was more than just what I perceived as engineering, and often what I was learning in my classes – pipe and slope design, for example. I realised that many people have an ‘out of sight, out of mind’ perspective with waste. We’ve engineered amazing systems to put our waste or recycling into bins and it goes away – but there is no ‘away’ and waste is always having an impact. I kept asking questions like, how can we better understand our generation and perceptions of waste, and how can we reduce its impact?

How did your work become more ‘ocean-focused’?

At the start of my PhD, I heard about plastics ending up in the ocean through Charles Moore’s work and I immediately connected it to land. Many associated the waste with materials dumped into the ocean, but I thought instead that something must be wrong on land for our waste to be leaking out.

I approached a professor in marine science to discuss pursuing this idea… imagine this conversation in the year 2000. I was in my 20s. I prepared everything I wanted to say and how I felt compelled to dedicate my work to this. After I passionately explained all my reasons, he looked at me, took a pause, and said “nobody cares about that.” I was speechless – this was not how I imagined the conversation would go.

Honestly, he was right. Not many did care at the time, there wasn’t a specific scientific field to understand it, and the general public didn’t know much about it at the time; but I still cared. Hearing someone tell you that nobody cares about the thing you’re most passionate about was my fuel to keep going, and I am glad to say today that people not only care but are working around the world to prevent plastic pollution. 

Where did Emily come into your journey?

In the summer of 2014 my tweets lit up as Apple had released a video at the Worldwide Developer Conference featuring our app – and Emily using it!

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From then we connected and a I signed up for a future eXXpedition journey (the inaugural one was full), but a few months later just before they were about to set sail I got an email saying a last minute spot had opened up… this was it – a moment in time to take the fork in the road. It seemed like it was not meant to be since I had very young kids at home. I called up my husband to joke about being gone for 4 weeks, but to my surprise he became very serious and said quietly, “I think you should do it.” Although I doubted myself, he encouraged me to at least explore it.

I needed to check with my university. In the back of my mind I figured everyone would say ‘no’ but everyone just kept saying yes, and that this was a great opportunity to further my work! At that moment, instead of hearing ‘nobody cares’ all I could hear was people saying “Go! You should do this!”

In the commencement address I gave in 2024, I said before this moment it felt like there were red lights slowing me down, but now it felt like every light was green – and things were falling into place. The trip completely changed my life in so many ways. It was such a turning point because it was probably the hardest work I had ever done, both physically and mentally.

“8 million metric tons of plastic was leaking into the ocean every year from mismanaged waste on land.”

And then your paper was published? How was it received?

When I got back, I found out our paper was accepted and was going to be published in Science. I knew it might get some attention because we had estimated the quantity of plastics entering the ocean from land for the first time. The estimate was that 8 million metric tons of plastic was leaking into the ocean every year from mismanaged waste on land.

Nothing could fully prepare me for the press or the attention this paper got. It was on the CBS evening news the week it launched. It was covered in The New York Times, The Washington Post, NPR, and many more media channels – I lost track of how many interviews I did. Later that year, I was asked to speak at the Our Ocean event, which was hosted by John Kerry and gave a talk at a Washington, DC event hosted by the Prince of Wales. These were the first of many speaking events to present the topics in this paper.

“I learned that there may be people who warp what you’re trying to communicate, so it is important for you, as the scientist, to discuss it and take responsibility for it.”

I felt a responsibility to communicate it as the science it was, and not how it was being covered, in some cases. I learned that there may be people who warp what you’re trying to communicate, so it is important for you, as the scientist, to discuss it and take responsibility for it. The importance of this paper was that it also sparked more work and catalysed more action to address plastic pollution around the world.

What is the circularity assessment?

After the impact of our paper being published in 2015, I started being hosted by the US State Department in their Public Diplomacy Program. I was hosted by embassies in 14 different countries through 2022. In all cases, there was great discussion, and in some, even disagreement, over the paper results and I welcomed it all. Many countries had new access to resources they did not have before, were making commitments to reduce plastic pollution entering the ocean, and collecting their own data. The State Department brought me in to teach and lecture, but it was always a two-way street and I learned so much from each new country and person I spoke with. I am so grateful for those trips and that time. 

On some of these trips, after I had spoken in a community, the municipality asked what they could do. Often I had only been in their 24-48 hours, so I said that they were the experts and knowledge holders of their community and that is the information that is most important. However, I saw that they were lacking data – data to inform their decisions based upon their own culture and context. The data was what I was seeing as soon as I landed in a city with new eyes – what is for sale in the stores and how is it packaged? What do the trash cans or recycle bins look like? What is ending up on the ground? 

That’s when we came up with the Circularity Assessment Protocol, or CAP for short. It is a hub and spoke model of seven components in a community including from what comes in (in stores and is used in restaurants) to what is used and forms of packaging, to how materials are collected and managed and what leaks out of the system. Data is collected through both quantitative and qualitative methods. Policy, governance, and economics are drivers. For example, if retail plastic bags are banned (enforced) then you won’t find them offered in stores, you won’t see them in the waste stream, and you will likely see less in the environment, with less ending up in the ocean. The context in the community is very important to be able to decide if a policy is right for them (e.g., retail plastic bags are banned in Hawaii, USA).

We work collaboratively with communities to collect data and then they can use that data. Local implementation partners (LIPs) who get funds from the project work with us to collect the city data. This means community experts have input into the entire process. The data is also open and will be available to everyone on an updated Circularity Informatics Lab website coming out in 2025. We present the framework, the tools, and people use the data in the best way they see fit, and the Debris Tracker all is also a part of it. The use of CAP has grown and has been applied in 56 cities in 16 countries to date. 

Photo Credit: Malin Jacob

Have you felt a shift in people’s attitude towards plastic pollution?

Yes, 100%. It’s only been 24 years since I was told that ‘nobody cares’ and an entire scientific discipline was formalised, plastic pollution (alongside marine debris). And now the UN countries are discussing a legally binding global agreement to address plastic pollution. I find that so amazing. This leads me to the equation that I came up with for my commencement address: Persistence + Patience = Perseverance. There are always obstacles. Some, we just need to figure out how to get over it by being persistent. Some obstacles force you to pause by creating a reason not to pursue something. But if you’re persistent, you might just need to be patient first. Because we get everything almost immediately nowadays through online, delivery, on-demand shows, etc., patience feels kind of rare in our world – but I still seem to have a heavy dose of it – maybe that’s one of my superpowers.

You could also say that patience and persistence are in tension with each other. Patience is waiting, and persistence is pushing forward through whatever is in front of you. So it’s a dance between the two, but put these two together and you can persevere! 

How did the voyage impact you?

It was hugely impactful. At the start we did a beach cleanup in the Canary Islands. I saw all these fragments washing in from the ocean, every wave was a confetti of plastic. I remember thinking “the ocean is literally spitting this material out back at us.” And we must protect the ocean from this material.

When we were at sea, I would find myself gazing out at this endless pristine sea, and yet whenever the net was pulled up we often saw plastic. It was no longer just a model or numbers on a page.

Supporting women in underrepresented disciplines has always been a passion for me too and the voyage showed me the strength of women. It hasn’t been easy being a woman in engineering. When I first started at the institution I’m with, there were only two other women – but now we have 17. Now there’s five women’s offices in a row in my hallway, whereas before, there weren’t even five women in the whole college.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

When I was trying to decide if I should do my PhD, a professor said “If you can avoid your PhD, you should” At first, I had no idea what he meant… until I was working to finish my dissertation. I realised the only direction I could see in front of me was through it. I really valued that advice, and it’s something I now often share with my students. Otherwise, when things get hard, you might just jump off that path, but not if you only see one way, and that is through it. Kind of like being on the boat – once we set sail there was only one way to get to the other side of the ocean – on that boat! 

What is your superpower? 

Earlier I said patience, but I think it’s optimism in equal measure. These qualities can work in harmony together to push you in the right direction.

I also think creativity. Engineering is effectively problem-solving, which is helped so much by being creative. I do firmly believe that my creativity has allowed me to be the unique ‘accidental engineer’ that I am!

What keeps you feeling hopeful about the future of the ocean?

That there are lots of people actively working to help the ocean, and even more people who also care! I’m grateful that the legacy I’ll leave behind with my research is something that may help others to push science and solutions forward. In 24 years, we’ve gone from nearly nobody caring about plastics in the ocean, to people agreeing there is a problem and negotiating a global agreement to address it – that is a big change!

Photo Credit: Malin Jacob

If you could give one message to the world, what would it be? 

Even when things feel eternally broken, don’t sit back and ‘hope’ things will work out. Hope is good, but I would say we need optimism to get through that. Stay optimistic and you will not give up.

The post Jenna Jambeck Superpower Story appeared first on eXXpedition.

As Spring blossoms around us, it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace new beginnings, reflect on the changes we can make and live more sustainably. It’s also an ideal moment to evaluate our lifestyles and consider how perhaps one of the biggest factors can be our mindset and attitude. 

With plastic pollution being a pressing global issue, impacting our oceans, wildlife, and even our own health, it’s important that we as individuals take a closer look at what changes we can make, but often these ideas only stick if we have the right motivation and are empowered with the knowledge to make the best choices. However, small, mindful changes in our daily lives can make a substantial difference.

So this spring, let’s take a dive into finding ways to empower ourselves and our communities by learning more about our plastic consumption and explore practical steps we can take to minimise our environmental footprint. Whether it’s opting for reusable alternatives, supporting sustainable products, or making conscious choices in our daily routines, every action counts.

Join us as we delve into some different solutions for reducing plastic in our lives and discover how spring can serve as a catalyst for positive mindsets and sustainable behaviours!

#1 READY TO DITCH THE PLASTIC?

This Spring, let’s make a real difference – for ourselves and the planet.

Did you know that in the UK, more than 60% of the plastic we use ends up in landfills, incinerated, or polluting our environment and oceans? It’s a pretty daunting statistic, but it’s also a call to action! So why not challenge yourself to go fully plastic-free for an entire month?

Since 2011, the Plastic Free Foundation (Plastic Free July) has been leading the charge with Plastic Free July, offering a wealth of resources to help us all reduce our plastic footprint. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, their tips can be tailored to fit your life, making it easier than ever to cut out plastic. But this amazing event isn’t just in July – you can ditch the plastic with their support, resources and tips all year round and these habits can carry you through every month of the year.

What makes it even more rewarding is you’re not alone! When you join the movement, you become part of a global community of passionate individuals all striving for the same goal – a cleaner, greener planet. 

Let’s challenge ourselves to go plastic-free for spring – and who knows, you might just find you can keep it up for longer than a month!

#2 DOCUMENT YOUR JOURNEY

Thinking about cutting plastic out of your life? Why not document your journey and inspire others to do the same? One of the best ways to learn how to reduce plastic is by hearing how real people – like you – are doing it. The good, the bad, the ugly – and most importantly – the triumphs! These are the stories that can truly make a difference, beyond what we hear from brands or companies.

In 2017, over 467,000 tonnes of household recycling in England was rejected from recycling plants. That’s a huge amount of waste that could have been avoided if we were all more aware of what we’re throwing away and how we’re recycling. By sharing your plastic-free journey, you can help raise that awareness and encourage others to make changes too.

Whether it’s through a blog, vlog, podcast, or even a Facebook group, you have the power to create a platform where you can be real, relatable, and inspiring. And the best part? There are no rules! You can write or talk about anything that matters to you – from daily tips to big-picture ideas – whatever reflects your experience and passion.

Not only does this give you a chance to tell your story, but it also helps you engage with a like-minded community. You’ll find support, share advice, and connect with others who are on the same journey. And with free options like Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms, it’s easy to get started.

So, why not take the leap?

#3 WE CAN’T DO BETTER UNTIL WE KNOW BETTER!

Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have in the fight against plastic pollution.

But while it would be ideal to offer environmental education for free, there are often costs involved—whether it’s travel, printing materials, or other resources needed to make an educational program effective. That’s where education grants come in, providing the financial boost needed to make these important initiatives happen.

Consider this: globally, we produce over 390 million tonnes of plastic per year – that’s the weight of all humans on earth! So we think it’s pretty clear that there is an urgent need for widespread education on plastic-free living and sustainable choices. We need all the support we can get to spread awareness and grants can help do just that.

Writing a grant application isn’t just about securing funds – it’s also a valuable exercise in identifying and articulating the key benefits of your programme. This process helps you clarify your goals, refine your approach, and ensure that your efforts are making the greatest possible impact. Plus, you have the opportunity to tailor your grant request to fit the specific needs of your programme or community, making your application more compelling and effective.

In the UK, Grants Online is an incredibly valuable resource, offering the most comprehensive and up-to-date database of grant funding opportunities. With millions of pounds available each year specifically aimed at protecting the environment, it’s a resource you can’t afford to overlook. These grants can empower you to educate yourselves further and make knowledge more accessible and inspire others.

So, if you’re passionate about spreading the knowledge needed to reduce plastic use, consider applying for an education grant. It could be the key to turning your vision into reality, making a real difference in the fight against plastic pollution.

#4 THE BIGGER PICTURE

If you’re passionate about reducing plastic waste, it’s important to look at the bigger picture and stay informed about global efforts to ban single-use plastic items. 

Many countries around the world have implemented bans on items like plastic bags, straws, cutlery, and to-go food packaging in a bid to tackle the plastic crisis. While the enforcement of some of these regulations slowed down due to COVID-19, progress is still being made, and there’s a great tool to help you keep track.

Starboard’s Plastic Ban Matrix is an invaluable resource that lets you explore which single-use plastic items have been banned, when, and where around the globe. This comprehensive database allows you to see how different regions are addressing the plastic problem and can serve as a powerful educational tool.

With over 300 million tons of plastic produced annually – 50% of it for single-use purposes – it’s more important than ever to understand and support these bans. The Plastic Ban Matrix not only highlights global progress but also helps identify gaps where more work is needed. Whether you’re an educator, an advocate, or just someone who wants to make a difference, this resource can deepen your understanding and inspire action.

Staying informed about these bans is crucial in the fight against plastic pollution. The Matrix allows you to contribute to the global conversation, raise awareness, and help push for stronger regulations where they’re needed most.

#5 DISCOVER SOLUTIONS

Are you passionate about tackling marine plastic pollution but unsure where to start?  

SHiFT Workshops are designed to help individuals and groups discover their unique role in solving this global issue. These workshops offer an engaging, interactive experience that takes participants on a journey from understanding the plastic problem to exploring solutions and identifying actionable steps.

With 80% of plastic waste originating on land, it’s clear that the most effective solutions need to address the problem at its source. SHiFT Workshops are tailored to do just that, offering a deep dive into the causes of plastic pollution and the range of solutions available – from reducing single-use plastics to advocating for policy changes. Whether you’re a student, an athlete, a corporate team member, or even a government official, these workshops provide the tools and knowledge you need to make a meaningful impact!

One of the key strengths of SHiFT Workshops is their ability to help participants identify how they can leverage their own skills and passions to combat plastic pollution. Whether you’re an educator looking to inspire students, a business leader aiming to reduce your company’s environmental footprint, or an individual eager to make a difference, these workshops offer practical guidance and inspiration.

Emily (and many of our Ambassadors!) have successfully used these workshops to engage everyone from children to government ministers, making them a versatile tool in the fight against plastic pollution and accessible for a wide range of groups.

Join or run a SHiFT Workshop and become part of the solution to one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Together, we can turn off the plastic tap and protect our oceans for future generations!

#6 MAKE WAVES OF CHANGE!

Are you ready to lead your town toward a plastic-free future?

Surfers Against Sewage is spearheading the Plastic Free Community network, a movement dedicated to eliminating single-use plastics from our everyday lives. This initiative tackles the issue from all angles – starting with beach cleanups and extending to the brands and businesses that produce plastic.

In 2016 alone, the world generated 320 million tonnes of plastic, and this figure is expected to double by 2034 if we don’t take action. The Plastic Free Community network provides tailored advice for both individuals and businesses to help you make a significant impact in reducing plastic waste.

By joining this movement, you gain access to a free toolkit designed to help you create meaningful change in your community. Whether you’re looking to organise local events, partner with businesses, or educate others about the importance of reducing single-use plastics, the toolkit offers practical resources and guidance.

You’ll also become part of a network of dedicated leaders who are committed to making a difference. Connect with others in your area who are working toward the same goal, share ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that can drive real change.

Take the lead and be part of a growing community that’s determined to turn the tide on plastic pollution. Together, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable future for our towns and beyond! 

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With these just being a few examples of the many ways you can make changes to your outlook and attitude, we hope that we’ve inspired you to try something new, shift your perspective and hopefully inspire others to do the same!

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Help us have a bigger impact and share this article with your friends too.

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On the SHiFT platform, there are now hundreds of solutions available at just the click of your mouse and filters that help you refine the options down to the ones that are most appropriate for you.

We don’t need everyone to do everything, but we do need everyone to do something. What will your next SHiFT be?

We encourage you to share your actions across social media to inspire others to join you in making a difference in their own lives, communities, businesses and wider world.

#jointheshift

by eXXpedition Team

The post SHiFT Spring Blog appeared first on eXXpedition.

As the founder of Resilient Coasts Ltd, her work extends globally, where she’s recognised for her advice on innovative approaches and solutions to coastal management. We were excited to explore the waves of impact Emma’s been making since we last crossed paths.

Tell us about yourself!

I’m the founder of Resilient Coasts, a multi-disciplinary consultancy offering bespoke coastal management advice. I have three degrees covering marine biology and oceanography, and I specialise in geomorphology. As a child, I was interested in saving the planet and vegetarianism. Over the years I moved interest towards ocean and ecosystem thinking – how we continue to shape our world at scale as custodians.

My journey has been like following breadcrumbs. I’ve worked with many different NGOs, universities, organisations and consultancies on various projects over the years. I’m an interdisciplinary marine scientist and work in lots of different fields – I’m ‘a jack of all trades’ when it comes to the marine sciences! I like to look at the different pieces of the puzzle and understand it enough to translate it for others to also understand how the system works, in pieces or as a whole puzzle. 

Those puzzle pieces might be improving natural or implementing artificial defences for flooding, opening connections and flows for water or soils, or developing specific policy or legislation to support conservation or better management of a place – unpicking the complexity of issues and laying out clear strategy to improve upon a situation.

Photo Credit: Kristine Berg

What’s your superpower? 

My superpower is being able to see all problems and synthesise them. Specifically, I love being able to understand the natural systems and find ways to translate them to someone, be it governments, councils or even private firms, so that they understand it better to design a more effective, holistic integrated solution with the bigger picture in mind. 

There are often many components to man-made issues that can be improved with better connectivity in natural systems. These improvements allow nature to do what nature does best – provide us with nearly everything we need to function and survive!

Photo Credit: Rachel Lucas

Can you tell us more about Resilient Coasts Ltd? 

We’re all about the marine and coastal space – and the communities and activities in those spaces. We are typically developing solutions and advising clients on how we can manipulate the environment or reduce the risk posed by the environment for the benefit of humans and nature.

For example, recently we’ve worked on a project locally in Plymouth where we were asked to consult on a planned pontoon construction. They wanted to know what the wave heights and the sea levels would be at the site, now and in the future, and how this would impact the structure so engineers could design the structure accordingly. They seem like simple questions but you’ve got to gather a lot of information about the situation (topographic, meteorological and oceanographic) before you can build a numerical model to understand offshore waves, then propagate those waves through a model over a complex shallow seabed before they reach the site of interest – it becomes very technical quickly, and that’s before we add the complexity of climate change induced sea level rise!

We help our clients understand a site in a level of detail required for their project design, at a conceptual scale through to detailed design. We take on an advisory role and help people – governments and businesses – think through a problem and create reports to give insight to the systems involved, helping them to understand the marine space better and create resilience. This can be anything from waste water systems to decisions at the shoreline (a cable coming onshore or the world’s largest deltas) to the management of the sea space itself (marine plastics, marine protected areas or blue economy) and in most cases a large emphasis on engagement and decision-making with coastal communities.

Essentially, our work is research based, understanding systems and presenting solutions or recommendations for projects  to councils and local communities.

Photo Credit: Bonita Baker-Robins

Can you give us an example of the sort of projects you work on?

The projects I work on are all climate change-related issues such as disaster risk reduction (mostly flooding) and/or adaptation to sea level rise and erosion-subsidence issues. I focus on how those places will be impacted and what they could do to mitigate it or adapt and how we can engineer with nature. In projects involving mangrove forests, seagrass beds or coral reefs for example, I examine how to better connect systems to improve water flow or flushing and alleviate the blockages and bottlenecks that cause flooding.

Flood and erosion related projects mostly address the issue of loss of land and therefore increased risk to homes and infrastructure i.e. the sea is seemingly moving inland, flood happens more frequently and along with salinity issues for inland soils and water bodies. So, what can we do to stop people’s homes being washed away? How can we move people out of harm’s way? The answers are often practical. You are often limited by space and confined by local policy or rules. However, many solutions are politically complex and incredibly difficult to float directly with the local government or communities. We can either physically move people out of harm’s way, or do so with engineering by figuring out how to either enhance natural systems (beaches, dunes and habitats) or apply grey infrastructure – more often a combination of both is required.

Image Description: Emma during a site visit in the Caribbean. 

In these scenarios, I work with councils/governments to figure out how to logistically transition and adapt community thinking and behaviour to the reality of climate change. Addressing the change with the communities, as well as communicating the science and the reasons behind it, helps with these steps towards adapting both coastal defences and human activities.

“People are starting to recognise that these considerations and changes are needed, and the environment can’t just be tagged on as an afterthought.”

Do you sense a change in how people and businesses are receiving advice?

In some projects I’ve worked on, you can see the value of your contribution. People are starting to recognise that these considerations and changes are needed, and the environment can’t just be tagged on as an afterthought. The environmental system has to be improved and the environment made more resilient, only then can you input the infrastructure. I refer to the resilience in nature as the “building blocks for development”.

“…utilising systems that are already in nature and enhancing or restoring their capacity protects the environment, which in turn protects us.”

Image Description: Emma during a site visit in the Caribbean. 

In other words, utilising systems that are already in nature and enhancing or restoring their capacity protects the environment, which in turn protects us. Finding the harmony between solutions and re-establishing these natural systems is crucial for long-term development; and that’s where our consultancy (Resilient Coasts Ltd) works best.

When did your passion for the ocean begin?

I grew up in Gloucestershire, but my grandmother lived in Devon where there are lots of beaches. I grew up watching the water moving in rockpools, making huge sandcastles and witnessing the rapid erosion of cliffs, land falling away into the sea with the waves – it fascinated me. As a child, watching the world, you absorb everything, and those memories stuck with me.

Image Description: Emma in Koh Kong, Cambodia during a mangrove forest project.

My interest in marine biology however, began when I started diving and surfing. When I was 18, I went to the Red Sea with school and I took my advanced PADI out there. After school, I travelled and worked in dive tourism and charities and was always around water; whether surfing, diving, kayaking or sailing!

Why did you join an eXXpedition voyage?

The reason I wanted to join was to essentially alleviate my eco-anxiety, which for me was horrendous. I just wanted to have an opportunity to relieve that anxiety, live a simpler life and do something good, something practical and conservation-oriented. 

Photo Credit: Meraki Fade

One thing that was bugging me was the astonishing amount of plastic that was in the environment. It was everywhere; in cities, beaches, all over the reefs. All my travels and work internationally, it is a key indicator of poor waste management practices, and highly indicative of wider environmental issues. 

There was a lot of noise being made about ‘marine plastics’ in European countries, but it didn’t feel like the same noise was being made elsewhere, often where the problems were far greater. I knew from working in the industry that waste was not being properly managed, and the problem wasn’t necessarily being directly addressed. Personally, it was getting increasingly hard to hear the problem being essentially ‘brushed under the carpet’ and I wanted to do more proactively. I also wanted to learn more about the issues and challenges within the subject and share back my understanding and experience. So, when the opportunity to join eXXpedition popped up in my social media feed, I applied for it enthusiastically!

What surprised you most during the voyage?

That we didn’t find a lot of plastic in the South Pacific gyre, but closer to the coastlines of islands – there was more than I had expected. It did resonate with my observations from work in India and South East Asia. That was personally impactful because there is such vastness and distances to travel across  the Pacific and yet it was still washing up on remote islands. For example, on Rapa Nui, there was more plastic on the beaches than I could have imagined, especially given its offshore location and given the lack of plastic that the community uses. But that’s the point isn’t it? It’s the places in the middle of nowhere that are carrying the burden and being impacted the most. The islands ‘capture’ it because they’re almost sitting in a funnel due to oceanic processes – the sea is continuously flowing the plastic around and towards islands and dumped onto their beaches. Most plastics have been carried from distant places and nations, and we can only imagine how much plastic has sunk into the deep ocean.

“There is value in showing the impact of our decisions and behaviour in remote places because it can help us make more impactful changes inland where the problem originates.”

Photo Credit: Emily Penn

How did your experience impact your life? 

Personally, it was a confidence boost, even just from the perspective of raising the funds to join the trip! It gave me a challenge – a goal after a redundancy. That helped provide a demonstration of what I could achieve for eXXpedition, and therefore myself in a move away from employment. The experience helped me understand myself and people better, in how we communicate about the environment – whether that’s through social media, storytelling or the impact of word of mouth.

There is now so much more noise about these issues on land, and the way eXXpedition focuses on the source and behaviour change is important. There is value in showing the impact of our decisions and behaviour in remote places because it can help us make more impactful changes inland where the problem originates.

What keeps you hopeful about the future? 

There is always hope, even in the back of my eco-anxiety. I know that things will change for the better, and the mindset is shifting. You can even see in the way things are being globally financed, and that there’s a fundamental shift in awareness and attitude. People genuinely want to do more and do better.

It will take a lot more people like me working in these spaces but we’re certainly on the way. You have to play the game to some extent to be able to make the change from the inside. Individually, people want to do better and are leaning on governments to do more, and there are more people working towards a better future now. 

If you could give one message to the world, what would it be?

If we had that as a common goal, it would be to put biodiversity-loss higher on the agenda. We put a lot of focus on other issues, such as climate change and marine plastics, but they are interconnected. We need to work to relieve the pressure on biodiversity to be less vulnerable to environmental threats and hazards. And, if we continue to lose biodiversity quicker than we are changing, then we are never going to keep up with the risks posed by climate change. We are only resilient to climate change if we hold a deep and unwavering respect for our natural systems and how they serve us. 

Image Description: Emma in Koh Kong, Cambodia during a mangrove forest project.

There’s a big shift happening towards people – collating coastal communities and peoples efforts, actions and stories – and there is always hopefulness in that messaging. People are changing and searching for alternative or traditional approaches. Eyes and ears are open to old/new management techniques, less pressured or sustainable practices, and want to fund large initiatives to support our natural systems and processes.

There is hope that we are going in the right direction and we’re moving back towards nature and recognising that we are the custodians of our planet. Next we need to agree to global protection legislation and effective governance for our oceans and coastal spaces. The question always remains, will it be soon enough and/or go far enough in law for real international commitment?  

The post Emma Rendle Superpower Story appeared first on eXXpedition.

We caught up with Katrina to hear about her journey, how the Amazon voyage shaped her perspective, and her exciting plans for the future of sustainable farming.

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Katrina McQuail (she/hers). I was born in Huron County and raised on my family farm (Meeting Place Organic Farm) in Ontario, Canada. I am a first generation Canadian.

I was fortunate to travel a lot when I was younger, and that sparked a desire to know more about the wider world and what’s going on! I studied Business and Non-Profit Management, with a minor in French at a university (Earlham College) in the United States. 

I always had an interest in ocean conservation but decided to try to manage the farm and see how it went – turns out it went pretty well. I’m good for the farm, and the farm is good for me! I’m here with my husband and our 3 tiny humans, and I am farming!

My two daughters are actually named after people that I was on expedition with! My eldest is named Stella after Stella Stabbins, and then Imogen is named Imogen Robinson.

Image credit: Lisa Credit

What is your superpower? 

My biggest strength is community building, bringing people together and encouraging them to try and be the change they want to see in the world.

Where did your passion for the ocean begin?

It all started from when I was really little. I just enjoyed finding out about all of the creatures in the ocean. For my birthday, my grandmother ‘adopted’ me a whale. So for years, I had this Humpback Whale that was ‘my whale’ that I’d get newsletter updates about which I loved! My love for the ocean grew from there. Whenever I had the choice I did school projects on the ocean, I specifically remember one I did no manatees.

When I was in my early 20s travelling in Central America, I started scuba diving! That was the moment… those first breaths underwater when I was truly captivated. All I kept thinking was ‘I want more of this’ and I just had to figure out how!

Image Credit: Rachel Labbe Bellas

Why did you decide to join the voyage?

After I moved back to the farm, one of my priorities was to make sure that I didn’t stop following my passions or doing things that were important to me. I’m really lucky, my parents have always been incredibly environmentally conscious and they’ve been very supportive of my journey.

One day, a friend of mine suggested going to this movie night and it ended up being a film by Jennifer Pate, a previous crew member from the Atlantic voyage. Whilst she was talking I was so inspired, I spoke to her afterwards and just decided that’s what I wanted to do. I never thought I would actually be accepted, but I put in my application anyway

Image Credit: Stella Stabbins

What surprised you the most during the voyage?

I thought I was pretty aware of stuff but not to the depth of understanding I came away with. Just the sheer pervasiveness was shocking. 

On the farm, even now when we are digging, we find stuff that people dropped long ago! We always try to think about the impact of what we’re using on the farm and how it all breaks down. That’s why we are an organic farm!

“It’s frustrating to know that even though we are doing our bit, and we do believe wholeheartedly in our work, chemicals inevitably move through the environment – whether through the air, soil or water.” 

During the voyage I took part in bioaccumulation tests and my results made me question why we are even organic… because I had these chemicals present in my body, from my environment and possibly from surrounding farms. It’s frustrating to know that even though we are doing our bit, and we do believe wholeheartedly in our work, chemicals inevitably move through the environment – whether through the air, soil or water. 

Though that seems negative, it helped reinforce my understanding of the importance of our choices and what impact they can have. We need to be addressing this at a societal level.

I always try to be conscious of this, especially now as a parent of small children. For several years after I came back from the voyage, I did speaking engagements with local communities about the voyage and tried to spread awareness about the toxins and microplastics in our environment.

How else did the experience impact you?

As a person, it helped me on a deeper level too. Growing up I always struggled with feeling like the farm was not very interesting or exciting. However, after the voyage and being surrounded by these amazing women, I realised I could foster all my other interests, and use the farm as a means to support those things too.

Image Credit:Sarah Richardson

With my youngest now being 15 months, I’m finally able to start doing these things! On the farm I want to expand its potential and host community events and creative workshops. With the voyage in mind, my goal is to have events with a purpose! Being part of eXXpedition connected me to an amazing community and I want to build something more like that here too. 

What role do you feel organic farming has in terms of keeping our planet healthy and maintaining the balance?

With the farm, I see multiple roles. The first being modelling for other farmers and others in agriculture. When our family first started, other local farmers didn’t think they’d last long… but 50 years later, we’re still here! Our business is testament that it works, it’s viable and it keeps getting better.

We showcase that you can have a financially viable business that is good for the environment. For example, simple changes such as planting trees every year, delayed haying and pasturing, allowing nesting songbirds to fledge their babies before we cut our hay. And if you can, even venture into farming without chemicals, to help sequester carbon and support wildlife.

The other role is the direct impact we have on the environment. We have a great coastal centre here for Lake Huron. They often highlight how farming relates to the ocean; whether it’s chemical runoffs or the type of manure you use, it all ends up in our water, so we need to do our part to not contribute to that.

“Now we know better, we need to move away from the best interest of the chemical companies, and focus on what’s best for us and our planet.”

There’s a new organisation called Farmers for Climate Solutions that we’re a part of that has gained enough traction that they’ve started affecting government policy with awareness around the climate impact – which means there’s now funding to support conventional farmers who want to change. One of the hardest things for farmers to do is to change the foundation of how the farm runs, it’s very risky. But this program is designed to help farmers try alternative, more sustainable approaches. 

People who are farmers or work within the farming industry do it for the love of the land and supplying resources to their community. Organic farming is the next step in the right direction so to have this extra support to make that transition is really valuable. 

The problem is that for my parents’ generation of farmers, they came into farming being sold the post-war message of modernisation. They had all these chemicals that were made for the war that they needed a new market for. At that point we didn’t know what all of those chemicals would do in the long-term. Now we know better, we need to move away from the best interest of the chemical companies, and focus on what’s best for us and our planet.

“It’s all well and good saying ‘this is the better option for the planet’, but you need to bridge the gap in regards to the risk involved when choosing an alternative”

It’s interesting because it’s kind of the same problem as plastic pollution, just a different substance. It’s all well and good saying ‘this is the better option for the planet’, but you need to bridge the gap in regards to the risk involved when choosing an alternative; like plastic bottles versus aluminium bottles or water filtration systems.

You have to provide support to help people get from A to B without letting them fall flat on their face. As more research is published about things such as all the places that plastic is ending up where it shouldn’t be, people are starting to become more conscious of their choices on a personal level and larger scale too. So we’re hoping to see bigger changes in agriculture because it really is the foundation of our society.

Have you got any exciting projects or events coming up that you’d like to share?

My big dream is to host events and workshops on the farm! I’m hoping to do more and have them open to a wide range of people and ages. We want to work more with our coastal centre to increase awareness of plastic pollution and use found objects to make art. I would love for the farm to have art installations, partly because I love art but also because sometimes we forget just how intertwined art and nature are, so to have different pieces embedded here would serve as an inspiring reminder.

If there is anyone in the eXXpedition community who is interested, we would love to hear from you!

What keeps you hopeful about the ocean’s future?

It has got to be future generations. Watching younger folks really get ‘it’ and want to take action is so exciting to me!

There’s an awareness and knowledge growing around us, and people are finally seeking more radical change to address it!

That is what gives me hope.

“Nature will prevail, whether or not we’re a part of that is our choice.”

If you could give one message to the world, what would it be?

I know it can feel overwhelming and hopeless at times, but when we take a step back and look at everything, I feel very strongly that it’s all worth fighting for. Nature will prevail, whether or not we’re a part of that is our choice. We have to survive and move forward in a beautiful way. It will be worth the effort and there is still so much opportunity to make a change! 

The post Katrina McQuail Superpower Story appeared first on eXXpedition.

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Tell us about yourself!

I was born and raised in Costa Rica. I am a passionate, enthusiastic and empathetic person. I love the ocean and always look for experiences or adventures that bring me closer to it.

Picture Credit: Cary Somers

I moved to the Philippines about 10 years ago – which is where I started my path in uniting creativity with ocean conservation. I was based there for 4 years working with The Reef-World Foundation, as the communications manager. It gave me a lot of exposure to creating educational materials and translating science to the diving industry. I now live in England working as a Creative Consultant mostly focused on climate-ocean impacts; braving the cold seas and truly enjoying it!

Picture Description: Juliana working as a Green Fins assessor in Malapascua Island, Philippines in 2016. 

Picture Credit: The Reef-World Foundation.

What is your role now?

I am a creative consultant, which means my work overlaps between graphic design, science communication and basically anything creative that will bring people closer to the ocean!

What is your superpower? 

My creativity is my superpower, as well as trust in my own intuition. Even after graduation, I knew that there was more to graphic design than just logos! 

I love working in multidisciplinary and multicultural environments, because it gives you a greater perspective and understanding of other people’s experience in this world. I enjoy being in a collaborative working environment, it’s great for enriching your knowledge especially as a communicator, where you have to meet your audience where they are.

Picture Credit: Juliana Corrales

For me, eXXpedition was the perfect example of that – you go on a boat with a bunch of women that come from different places and backgrounds and you have this amazing opportunity to learn from everyone and their experiences.

Why did you choose to join an eXXpedition voyage?

I first heard about it before I left for the Philippines. Then in 2019, when I was back visiting family in the UK, it felt almost serendipitous because I ended up at an eXXpedition meetup. They mentioned RTW – and I knew I was ready for my next adventure! After working in marine conservation, it felt like the right time so I applied, even though I’d never been on a sailboat.

“Even on the most perfect days out at sea, in the middle of nowhere when we began sampling there was so much plastic.”

What surprised you the most during the voyage?

Everything for me started with plastic. Being on the boat was so eye-opening (and overwhelming!) to see the magnitude of the issue – especially in the gyre where people rarely sail through. Even on the most perfect days out at sea, in the middle of nowhere we found microplastics in our samples. 

Picture Credit: Cary Somers

When we arrived at Easter Island, I still remember the amount of plastic in the sand – it almost appeared to be a different colour because of how many pieces of microplastic there were.

 It was painful to go to these remote places, with communities so connected to and respectful of the sea, yet they have to deal with all this plastic from everyone else washing up on their shores. When I saw X Trillion, many years later, it brought all those feelings back to the surface.

“We can see it in our seas, in the air we breathe, in the changes in our climates.”

The pandemic started as soon as I came back home from the voyage. It startled me as a powerful analogy to our experience on the boat. We were all stuck in one space and our worlds shrunk dramatically. We have become desensitised to the world around us and the impact that our actions have on it. We have forgotten what is essential and we take for granted all the natural processes that happen day by day for us to be able to be here, now.

Our planet is our boat, and although it feels so big, it also has its limits. We can see it in our seas, in the air we breathe, in the changes in our climates. We are reaching a crucial point where nature is forcing us to stop and start observing the world around us. Earth is ‘making the unseen seen’ and it’s doing it in a very explicit way. In the same way that we could not have reached our destination alone, the global community wouldn’t have been able to get out of a pandemic without helping each other.

Picture Description: Juliana working for The Reef-World Foundation, implementing the Green Fins initiative in Costa Rica in 2021.

Picture Credit: The Reef-World Foundation.

What does it mean to be a creative consultant in the field of marine conservation?

I call it Creative Consultancy because I provide creative direction (including graphic design, science communication, creative thinking, etc.) to marine initiatives and NGOs to elevate their “public face” in a way that truly represents the value and scale of their work. I am an advocate for the importance of having a good brand and for comms – in the world of conservation – to be a priority and not a second thought. 

Science can’t just stay with the scientists because the general public needs access to this information to make informed choices. I like to think of myself as a ‘filter’, translating the information but also using creative ways to engage the audience on an emotional level. Emotional engagement is essential for effective ocean literacy that leads to behavioural change.

Are some approaches more impactful than others?

The biggest issue we have is that it can sometimes feel like you’re talking into a funnel. 

We all work with different and very specific audiences, so how do we engage the general public rather than just a few?

Picture Description: Juliana presenting at the International Marine Science Communication Conference, CommOCEAN 2024.

Picture Credit: OA Alliance.

“…to instigate a new behaviour, knowledge is not enough. We urgently need to think outside the box, collaborate and instigate action!”

The way we interact with the ocean also varies so there is not one recipe for the best approach to spreading awareness. You have to take a closer look at what brings us together, what do our audiences have in common: to me it is our emotions. 

My work with the OA Alliance is a great example of this. We work hand in hand with policy makers and scientists to take urgent climate-ocean action. Our new approach in our communications strategy is to complement our science/ policy centred messages with messages that will make the “unseen” impacts of climate-ocean change, such as ocean acidification, seen and emotionally felt through creative narrative building & storytelling.

To take it up that extra notch we’ve given our communications strategy “a lift up”, building from the fact that to instigate a new behaviour, knowledge is not enough. We urgently need to think outside the box, collaborate and instigate action!

Can you tell us about any upcoming or exciting projects you’re working on?

As I mentioned before, with the Ocean Acidification Alliance, we’ve been working on a new creative communications strategy. I am super excited to be experimenting with poetry, storytelling, films and art; to build that bridge between ocean literacy and active ocean protection. We’re implementing 2 big projects this year, stay tuned!

Picture Credit The Reef-World Foundation

Earlier this year I had the opportunity to create visuals for a campaign released in the UK – Drops in the Ocean. It showcased the beauty and diversity of coral reefs and the strong connection each person has to these vital ecosystems.

You also volunteer with the Wave Project – tell us more about this!

It’s really special to be involved with the Wave Project. They are a charity that focuses on improving young people’s mental health and wellbeing through Surf Therapy.

Image Credit: Protect Blue

We take young people who struggle with mental/ physical health challenges to help them build confidence and overcome barriers by being in the ocean. 

It’s amazing to see the impact the ocean has on them in just one session. They are transformed; and to be involved in that process is truly an honour.

What keeps you hopeful about the ocean?

Humans are capable of many things, some of which have even changed history – including the invention of plastics! We are born with an inherent connection to the world around us; we just lost it somewhere along the way. If we tap back into our potential of creating things to help our planet rather than destroy it then perhaps we can connect back and restore the world around us.

We just need to reflect and find that ‘shift’. It’s a big task, but we have the potential.

“If we tap back into our potential of creating things to help our planet rather than destroy it then perhaps we can connect back and restore the world around us.”

Picture Credit: Winne Courtene Jones

If you could give one message to the world, what would it be? 

I come back to the boat analogy I mentioned earlier. If we think of our world as being on a boat, we need to take greater care of others around us and the influence our actions have. 

Stop, take a breath. Think of all the living things that influence you being who and where you are. Be grateful and give something back. We all have a job in taking care of this “boat” that we’re sailing in. 

The post Juliana Corrales Superpower Story appeared first on eXXpedition.

Now onto her next big adventure, Larissa and her husband, Duncan Copeland, recently founded Free Range Ocean, a UK-registered not-for-profit and are on a world sailing voyage with their children Eden and Skye to use adventure sailing, citizen science and storytelling to inspire action for a healthy ocean among boating and coastal communities. We caught up with her to find out what she’s been up to! 

Can you introduce yourself?

I’m Larissa Clark, a mum of two (aged six and eight), currently living on a boat with my family while sailing around the world participating in citizen science projects. I’m a member of the Explorer’s Club, Adventure Travel Association, Bluewater Cruising Association and Ocean Cruising Club which probably gives a peek into my interests! My background in communications and my fascination with people and places means I’ve shaped a life that’s enabled me to live, work and travel in many incredible corners of the world for which I am very grateful.

My journey to the ocean was unexpected. Despite a bad experience at 18 that kept me off boats for a decade, I later ran the PR for several ocean-related human rights and environmental justice projects, including plastic pollution and illegal fishing. It piqued my interest in venturing back to the ocean and during a sabbatical I joined the voyage crew of a Dutch tall ship to sail across the Atlantic to South America. It was a real period of transformation for me and I fell in love with being at sea.

That journey inspired me to co-found Another World Adventures, a travel company connecting people with extraordinary adventure experiences. While running the company, I partnered with Emily (Penn) on eXXpedition, helping connect adventure-seeking women for the crew of eXXpedition’s first all-female transatlantic scientific voyage and all the voyages after that. This evolved into a formal role as Head of Communications at eXXpedition starting with the North Pacific mission and later Round the World. Other interesting sailing and scientific research expeditions I’ve supported include Barba’s Arctic Sense and Darwin200. And in 2022 I ran the press office for an extraordinary 7,000km non-stop relay from Glasgow (COP 26 host) to Sharm el-Sheikh (COP 27 host) carrying a climate change message from the leaders of tomorrow to the leaders of today.

There’s a point where adventure travel and research expeditions intersect and I think that’s my happy place, and it’s ultimately brought me to where I am now – living with my family on our own sailboat currently in Mexico preparing to cross the Pacific! It will take us several weeks to reach our first stop in the remote Pitcairn Islands which have an extraordinary marine reserve that’s 834,000 km² big and offers protection to some of the most pristine waters and coral reefs on earth.   

Picture Credit: @thefreerangecrew 

Today, I combine my skills in communications with my love for travel and sustainability, working with organisations in the ocean and conservation space. My life reflects my personality: a multitasker who thrives on balancing adventure, meaningful work, and family.

What’s your superpower?

Making connections! – I love joining the dots, connecting people, opportunities and experiences that lead to change. 

“The ocean can be an intimidating place – but in those moments, we are reminded of why we love the ocean, in all its forms and whatever it may bring.”

When did your passion for the ocean begin?

In a way my ocean education came quite late – if you discount the fun of jumping in waves as a kid! I’ve always been passionate about geography and conservation but I had a bad sea-going experience in Australia as a teenager, which was like a bad first date and it put me off. It took me a while to ‘go on a second date with the ocean’ if you will. I’m glad I did! It was when I started working on ocean projects in my twenties and began to better understand the complete interconnectedness of the ocean in all facets of our lives on land as well as at sea. That is when it started to become a major part of my life, and I haven’t looked back! 

Even now, I still feel like I have a lot to learn, it’s a lifelong journey. It is the most powerful force on our planet and we need to maintain a healthy dose of respect for it. The ocean can be an intimidating place – but in those moments, we are reminded of why we love the ocean, in all its forms and whatever it may bring.

What has your journey been since you left eXXpedition? 

As a family, we’ve always had this dream to set sail on a big adventure.  Whilst living in Norway we bought a Freeranger, our 50’ ocean-going sailboat. She was on the other side of the world in Fiji so in 2023 a skipper sailed her up to the West Coast of Canada with a volunteer crew while we packed up land-life and moved to Victoria, BC to meet them and get ready for a multi-year world voyage.

Picture Credit: Nikkey Dawn 

Beyond having an adventure of our own, we wanted to journey with purpose and have set up a not-for-profit organisation called Free Range Ocean which has been endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. 

Our focus is on three key areas of action. 

Firstly, contributing to, and enabling other boaters and sea-going folk to discover and participate in important ocean citizen science and community research projects around the world. To this end we have created the first global citizen science directory dedicated to ocean projects. Check it out! Find a project you can participate in or let us know if we’re missing any! 

Picture Credit: Nikkey Dawn 

Secondly, to advance knowledge and understanding of our global ocean by hosting local conservation initiatives, early-career marine researchers and storytellers on board Freeranger in the countries we visit during our world voyage to help super-charge their careers in conservation. 

And to use Freeranger as a demonstration platform for outreach and innovation, and as a testbed for innovative research-based or green-operational maritime technologies, from simple solutions to high-tech.

The end goal? To inform, inspire and enable others to have their own positive impact on our ocean with an ‘everyone, and every action counts’ philosophy.

We love to collaborate so get in touch if any of this resonates and you’d like to connect!

Picture Credit: Nikkey Dawn 

What’s the most challenging part of your journey so far?

Boats! Boats! Boats! Maintaining a safe, ocean-going vessel that you put your kids on is a huge amount of work! 

Picture Credit: @thefreerangecrew

Marry that with project work, life and homeschool and we’ve got a pretty full schedule and fitting it all in is quite a challenge but achievable! 

What about the most exciting?

Unquestionably, when I get to experience marine life. Every time, even if I get seasick or feel absolutely dreadful, if there’s a whisper of marine life of any description, the endorphins rush through my system and it is amazing and special. 

We have had a couple of very close encounters including one with three Sei whales (third biggest whale on the planet) and a blue whale (the biggest!)

Picture Credit: Nikkey Dawn 

We brought the boat to a stop because there were Humpbacks on the other side but as we turned to the other side we saw these enormous whales coming towards us, and then suddenly dropped below our boat. To be honest, it was pretty nerve-wracking, because if they actually accidentally hit the rudder it would’ve been game over for us – but it was exhilarating none the less!

“When given time, space and an ease of burden, nature has a remarkable ability to recover and thrive.”

What keeps you hopeful about the future?

Knowing the power of nature to bounce back no matter what humans seem to throw at it. When given time, space and an ease of burden, nature has a remarkable ability to recover and thrive. The combination of solving the problems that we create as humans on Earth with nature’s ability to rebound keeps me hopeful.

If you could give a message to the world, what would it be?

There’s a quote I love that I first heard when I was working almost 20 years ago with Anita Roddick (the Body Shop founder) which was “if you think you’re too small to make a difference, you’ve never been to bed with a mosquito”. 

Picture Credit: @thefreerangecrew 

When the problems seem huge and overwhelming, even the actions of the individual, no matter how seemingly small, do make a difference. Everyone should feel that their ‘part’ matters. So do something, do anything, but start today.

The post Larissa Clark Superpower Story appeared first on eXXpedition.

The experience of the voyage was the first step in Jess’ journey moving from an accomplished project manager in the major events industry to sustainability consultant. Born in the UK, her career in events gave her the opportunity to travel the world delivering large scale international events. Now settled in France, we caught up with her to see where her love of adventure, voyage experience and new perspective led her and what she has been up to since!

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Tell us a bit about yourself

Born in London I then spent my early childhood living in Germany before returning to the UK where I stayed until I finished university. Following the completion of my first master’s degree I was lucky enough to work on exciting projects which took me around the world before I settled in France.

Historically, my background lies in project managing large scale international events such as the FIFA World Cup, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Commonwealth Games, NFL, Champions League and others. In 2015, I became self-employed to give me the opportunity to broaden my experience and explore my interest in environmental issues.

We think of ocean pollution as being a contained issue, only in the ocean, but we are disconnected from the full reality of its impact on the natural environment and our own health.

What’s your superpower?

I would say my superpower, if it is a superpower – it could also be a super hindrance! Is being relentlessly determined to achieve goals that I feel strongly about – these can be professional and/or personal. It almost always requires me having to change tack multiple times and might take me years to get there…but the end goal is always in sight.

For example, when I got off the boat with the new knowledge of microplastics, my life didn’t change instantly. It took time to digest what I had learnt and start thinking more laterally about the cause and effect of climate change. We think of ocean pollution as being a contained issue, only in the ocean, but we are disconnected from the full reality of its impact on the natural environment and our own health. Gradually I started making changes in both my personal and professional life in line with this new knowledge.

How did you first hear about eXXpedition?

My friend worked for eXXpedition. Someone had dropped out of the voyage last minute and I had just finished a project so I jumped at the opportunity to join. I think I signed up one week before we left Senegal!

microplastics are literally everywhere and in everything

What was the most surprising thing you learnt during your Voyage?

That microplastics are literally everywhere and in everything. Each day of the voyage we took samples of ocean surface water to examine for microplastics. What amazed me was, as we travelled further from land with no boats or people in sight, we continued to find microplastics in the daily samples. 

For the wider context, the toxicologist onboard educated us regarding the number of microplastics in our own bodies, ingested through food, water and its packaging. It was shocking and disturbing to understand the scale of the issue. 

It was shocking and disturbing to understand the scale of the issue. 

Can you tell me a bit about your role now and how the experience has influenced your work since?

The experience and new knowledge I gained from the trip confirmed to me that I wanted to shift my career and carry out work more related to environmental issues. I therefore completed a master’s degree in Global Energy and Climate Policy which enabled this shift. I now work as a sustainability consultant for major events and on projects concerning climate change as well as sustainable food sources and plastic free products for the hospitality sector.

Image Description: Jess highlighting the work of The Last Glaciers at the World Meteorological Organisation during the launch of the International Year of Glacier Preservation.

What are you working on currently?

The United Nations has declared 2025 as The International Year of Glacier Preservation, launched on 21 January. I work with the relevant UN agencies to help build awareness of the critical role glaciers play in maintaining life. Glaciers are the life source for half the population, providing fresh water to communities and cities downstream for humans, animals and plants. They also drive a significant portion of the world’s oceanic circulation as well as reflect solar radiation from space, keeping the earth cool. Losing glaciers will disrupt the balance of the entire Earth.

For example I work with the producers of The Last Glaciers – one of the most comprehensive documentaries on glaciers, to support the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and UNESCO in communicating the science and achieving their goals for The International Year of Glacier Preservation.

Image Description: Glacier des Bossons, Chamonix in the background

What are your plans going forward?

Strategic foresight. With an increasingly uncertain future, strategic foresight and horizon scanning methods help monitor signals of change that could have implications for the environment and society. Given the level of uncertainty regarding our future and the interconnected nature of global challenges, this area of work is becoming more and more prominent in informing future planning and policy. 

Outside of work, I spend a lot of time in nature – living in Chamonix means I’m lucky as the mountains are on my doorstep. I am also a qualified yoga instructor and place a lot of importance on health and wellbeing. Going forward I’m keen to build a more sustainable lifestyle. For example, over the last year I have significantly reduced my travel and now I am focused on educating myself on a more sustainable diet – including ways to minimise my intake of microplastics!

…the younger generation who want to protect their future provide a glimmer of hope that some form of systemic change could be possible

What keeps you hopeful about the future of the ocean?

The impacts of this stage of climate change are very real. Already this year we have seen several extreme weather scenarios play out supporting the scientific predictions. This, coupled with the power of the younger generation who want to protect their future provide a glimmer of hope that some form of systemic change could be possible, however unfortunately time is not on our side.

If you could give one message to the world, what would it be?

Challenge the status quo.

We’ve grown up in a world with certain systems. However, we know these systems are not working – so my message would be to encourage people to try and look for ways to do things differently. Break the mould and make things better.

The post Jess Donald Superpower Story appeared first on eXXpedition.

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Tell us about yourself!

My name is Pallavi and I’m a designer. I express my creativity in lots of different ways and describe my work as multidisciplinary.

Throughout my career, I have worked in many different industries and each experience has led me to explore the concept of sustainability and what role creativity plays in that. I’ve always been creative and initially studied theatre design, which was really fun, but I found myself questioning the process. Art is, without doubt, of great value to the world, but we also need to think about the true cost and impact of that.

Art is, without doubt, of great value to the world, but we also need to think about the true cost and impact of that.

What is your superpower?

Creativity and adaptability. I always want to try new things and explore ways of making things.

I’ve moved across into different design industries, including set design, stop motion animation and product design. But no matter what I was making, I just kept thinking about how we should be mindful of its entire life cycle rather than the immediacy of what it was needed for.

I really loved making models and designs but we would use so many different materials like wood, metal, plastic, paper, paint and everything would end up being mixed together. Once it’s served its purpose, all these ‘contaminated’ creations can’t be recycled. This notion always really bothered me – I kept thinking there has to be a better way!

When you look at a product you have to ask yourself – how is it made? What’s the material? What process is used to make it? There are a lot of moving parts in production and you’d be surprised how hard it is to pin down these answers. Each industry that I’ve worked in that used plastic always felt careless, no one was asking these questions. For me, as a designer, those experiences really underlined where I wanted my focus to be, and to find a way to use my superpowers to get there. 

What drew me towards it was that it focused on showing you what happens at the end of the cycle and trying to find solutions, rather than just the problem.

Why did you join the voyage?

Plastic pollution has always been a big thing for me, especially when I was starting out.

I went to The Adventure Travel Show at Olympia, London and watched some of the panel discussions and speakers. During one of these, I saw Soraya Abdel-Hadi (who was an integral part of the eXXpedition team) and she talked about the work eXXpedition was doing and it grabbed my attention. I went home and did some research and kept an eye out for any opportunities.

What drew me towards it was that it focused on showing you what happens at the end of the cycle and trying to find solutions, rather than just talking about the problem.

What surprised you the most during the virtual voyage?

There were actually a couple of things…because the voyage I did was virtual, it was a slightly different experience from being out at sea… The advantage of this meant we focused on our own local areas; and I was really surprised at just how much plastic there was. I had always noticed the litter but when we started actually counting and logging it, I couldn’t believe it! It was also so interesting because everybody was based in different places around the world, so we could see what different people were logging and then the differences in that data. This just added to the realisation that no matter where you live – there is plastic.

When you throw something or anything away, it has not gone ‘away’. It’s out of sight, but not truly gone.

One of the things that sticks with me the most is that because we did the Tonga leg, I learnt about how tiny this island was – it was like a microcosm of the whole world. For example, if they throw something on one side of the island, it reappears on the other side! And for me, that hit the nail on the head, that’s how it is on a bigger scale too, across the world. When you throw something or anything away, it has not gone ‘away’. It’s out of sight, but not truly gone.

How has the experience influenced what you do now?

Since the virtual voyage, the main things I’m working on is how to be a designer without producing too many physical things; and what I do create, I create more mindfully. I’ve actually got an online clothing brand now called The Gallivanters’ Colouring Club.

It began as a colouring club where I would create drawings each month inspired by my travels around the world, and I would send them out digitally as a monthly colouring magazine to my club members. Over time it naturally transitioned into a clothing line. It’s my way of having a creative outlet and an income in a responsible way without creating masses of stock and waste. All the clothing is made from 100% organic cotton, is made to order and is shipped without any plastic packaging.

Another creative low-waste solution I’ve discovered is virtual reality painting. You can create site-specific art using a VR headset and this amazing software called Open Brush. In one hand you have the palette, and in the other you have a brush, and you can create spatial paintings. You can save the painting afterwards as a digital file or video but it’s a fantastic and innovative way to create an interactive 3D scene without waste!

Image Description: A still image captured of a virtual reality painting created by Pallavi to recreate the story of a procession of gifts arriving at the Forbidden City.

Earlier in 2024, The Science Museum had the “Zimingzhong: Clockwork Treasures from China’s Forbidden City” exhibition. I had all these ideas about how to tell the stories behind the clocks, and using the Open Brush software I created a site specific virtual reality painting to recreate the story of a procession of gifts arriving at the Forbidden City for the emperor. Suddenly the space felt like it all came to life. There’s so much potential for how we can use technology like this to make an impact but with less or no physical impact!

Can you tell us more about Inkwell Studios?

I founded Inkwell Studios as a multidisciplinary creative studio based in London, that explores new ways of producing creative work, looking at alternative, innovative methods and materials and specialises in storytelling, animation, virtual reality and 3D printing. Basically it’s inclusive of everything creative and sustainable. It can be difficult as a small business, or a freelancer, to always pick the most sustainable option but sustainability is always at the forefront of my mind so I always try to put this at the forefront of our projects.

Storytelling has the ability to reach you on a deeper, more personal level and it creates an understanding between people.

What impact can storytelling through design have in terms of topics such as sustainability?

To put it simply, I think storytelling is such a great way to learn and gain knowledge.

Storytelling has the ability to reach you on a deeper, more personal level and it creates an understanding between people, which is so valuable. If the end goal is to inspire people and create change, then helping people become more interested, curious and invested can broaden the impact you have.

What role do you think design has in helping to spread awareness of the issue of plastic pollution?

Design is everything. The whole world around us is designed, and I think we have the responsibility to improve and create more sustainable options for the public. As designers, we should be using our creativity to give people the option of choosing something that is more in alignment with their beliefs on sustainability and the environment.

Image Description: Pallavi’s sustainable clothing designs being showcased on the cat walk at The Good Clothes Show

What keeps you hopeful about the future of the ocean?

Knowing that there’s always room for progress and improvement. Sometimes I look at all the realities of what is going on and it is overwhelming. But if everyone does their bit, it can improve. The world is changing in terms of people’s attitude towards the environment, especially compared to how it was 10 years ago. That’s what keeps me hopeful, seeing that we are moving in the right direction. It’s slower than I’d like it to be, but it is moving.

If you could give one message to the world what would it be?

Always try to do better than yesterday.

The post Pallavi Davé Superpower Story appeared first on eXXpedition.

Join us as we dive into tips, recipes, and ideas for a sustainable holiday season. Whether you’re a seasoned eco-warrior or just starting your journey towards sustainability, there’s something here for everyone!

#1 A TASTY SOLUTION!

Did you know that Britain’s top supermarkets generate over 800,000 tonnes of plastic packaging waste each year? It’s a staggering figure that highlights the immense environmental impact of our everyday shopping habits. Fortunately, there’s a simple and delicious way to help reduce this waste: switch to a farm box subscription service!

Farm box subscriptions offer a fresh, sustainable alternative to traditional grocery shopping. These services deliver seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other farm-fresh produce direct to your door, and have tons of other benefits too…

1. Cutting Down on Packaging Waste

Supermarkets often rely heavily on plastic packaging to transport and display their products. Farm box subscriptions, on the other hand, prioritise minimal and eco-friendly packaging. 

2. Supporting Local Farmers

These services typically source their products from nearby farms, ensuring that you receive the freshest produce while contributing to the local economy. This not only fosters community relationships but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods over long distances!

3. Enjoying Fresh, Seasonal Produce

Farm boxes are filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables, ensuring that you enjoy produce at its peak flavour and nutritional value. Eating seasonally also means that the produce requires fewer resources to grow, making it a more sustainable choice.

4. Reducing Food Miles

The distance food travels from farm to plate is known as “food miles.” By sourcing your produce locally through a farm box subscription, you significantly reduce these food miles. This means less fuel consumption and fewer greenhouse gas emissions, helping to combat climate change.

5. Convenience and Quality

Farm box subscriptions offer the convenience of home delivery, saving you time and effort. Plus, the quality of the produce is often superior to what you might find in a supermarket, as it is picked at peak ripeness and delivered quickly. This means better taste and nutrition for you and your family.

So making the switch is a win-win situation: delicious, nutritious food that supports local farmers and helps protect our planet.

Make a difference with every bite this festive season!

#2 SUSTAINABLE STORAGE

Did you know that Britain uses over 1.2 billion metres of clingfilm each year? That’s enough to circle the globe 30 times! 

This holiday season, why not skip the plastic wrap and opt for reusable alternatives instead? By making this simple switch, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste and contribute to a healthier planet. A practical and eco-friendly solution to keeping your food fresh without the environmental guilt is beeswax wraps!

They are a fantastic alternative to clingfilm. Made from cotton fabric coated in beeswax, tree resin, and jojoba oil, these wraps are naturally antibacterial and can be moulded around food and containers using the warmth of your hands. They’re perfect for wrapping sandwiches, covering bowls, and storing fruits and vegetables. Plus, they can be washed and reused!

Feeling crafty? You can even make your own beeswax wraps at home! Here’s a simple guide to get you started!

#3 WASTE NOT, WANT NOT!

With Christmas dinner fast approaching, it’s easy for our eyes to be bigger than our bellies! As we prepare for festive feasts, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of food waste. Did you know that around 30% of household waste is made up of food scraps and organic materials? Instead of tossing it all away, why not embrace home composting? 

Home composting is the most environmentally-friendly way to deal with kitchen and garden waste. By composting, you can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, where it contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, composting transforms your food scraps into nutrient-rich compost, which can be used to fertilise your garden in the summer. This not only helps your plants thrive but also reduces the need for chemical fertilisers.

So, this holiday season, let’s make a conscious effort to minimise our waste. After enjoying your delicious Christmas dinner, collect those vegetable peels, fruit scraps, coffee grounds, and even eggshells, and start your composting journey. Your garden (and the planet) will thank you! 

Let’s make this festive season greener by turning waste into a valuable resource!

#4 CHEERS TO A PLASTIC-FREE FUTURE!

Choosing metal cans or glass bottles over plastic is a win for the environment!

Metal and glass are infinitely recyclable materials, meaning they can be reused and recycled without losing quality or purity. In contrast, plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose, during which time it releases harmful chemicals into the environment and contributes to pollution. By opting for metal and glass, you’re not only reducing plastic waste but also supporting more effective recycling processes.

This simple switch helps decrease the demand for single-use plastics, reduces plastic pollution, and keeps toxic chemicals out of our ecosystems. Plus, metal and glass often have a lower overall environmental impact compared to plastic, making them a more sustainable choice.

So, next time you’re shopping or looking for a special drink to celebrate, choose metal cans or glass bottles. Your choice makes a difference, helping to create a greener, healthier planet for us all. Cheers to making sustainable choices!

#5 MYTH BUSTING COOKING

The myth of indestructible non-stick pans has found its way into countless kitchens around the world, promising effortless cooking and easy cleanup. But there’s more to the story that every home cook should be aware of. 

Health experts and environmental advocates have long warned about the hidden dangers of non-stick cookware. Many non-stick pans are coated with Teflon, which contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and other harmful chemicals. These substances have been linked to serious health risks, including cancer, and can potentially leach into our food as the pan wears over time.

Despite their convenience, the potential health hazards associated with non-stick pans are significant. As you prepare for the festive season and cook up a storm, consider making the switch to stainless steel cookware. Stainless steel pans are durable, free from harmful chemicals, and provide a healthier option for your kitchen. They offer excellent heat conductivity, are resistant to rust and corrosion, and, unlike non-stick pans, don’t release chemicals into your food.

So, while you’re busy crafting that holiday feast, take a moment to think about the cookware you’re using. Switch to stainless steel for a healthier cooking experience and a cleaner kitchen. Your well-being – and the well-being of your loved ones – deserves nothing less.

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With these just being a few examples of the many ways you can make changes in your home this festive season, we hope that we’ve inspired you to try something new, shift your perspective and hopefully inspire others to do the same!

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Help us have a bigger impact and share this article with your friends too.

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On the SHiFT platform, there are now hundreds of solutions available at just the click of your mouse and filters that help you refine the options down to the ones that are most appropriate for you.

We don’t need everyone to do everything, but we do need everyone to do something. What will your next SHiFT be?

We encourage you to share your actions across social media to inspire others to join you in making a difference in their own lives, communities, businesses and wider world.

#jointheshift

by eXXpedition Team

The post SHiFT Winter Blog appeared first on eXXpedition.

Step into a world where style meets sustainability, and your wardrobe becomes a powerful statement for positive change. In the fast-paced realm of fashion, where trends come and go, there lies a transformative journey towards conscious choices and eco-friendly elegance. In this blog, we guide you through our top 7 solutions to help you redefine your relationship with the clothes you wear, exploring the vibrant and exciting landscape of sustainable fashion. From mindful shopping habits to embracing ethical brands, join us as we unravel the threads of change, weaving a narrative that fuses fashion with making a positive shift towards a healthier planet. 

Get ready to make a lasting impact – one outfit at a time.

#1 ASK COMPANIES ‘WHAT’S IN MY CLOTHES?’

Starting out on this journey can feel overwhelming. With many of us having accumulated drawers full of clothes over the years, you may find yourself asking ‘Where do I begin?’. A great starting point could be to start taking a look at your clothes and analysing what they’re made of.

A Dutch study in 2019 discovered that labelling in clothes often does not reflect the actual textile makeup. In fact, over 10,000 garments were tested by Circle Economy: in 41% of cases the garment composition labels did not match the composition of the garment. That’s why Fashion Revolution launched #whatsinmyclothes, a campaign to ask companies to look closer at their materials and supply chains. Not only can this help you gain insight into the composition of your clothes but you can also help gather important data by using their email template to ask manufacturers and brands #whatsinmyclothes!

Click here to find out more.

#2 TRADE IN YOUR CLOTHES

Did you know that the average garment gets worn only 5 times before it’s discarded? Now that may sound shockingly low, but if you look through your wardrobe there are probably plenty of items tucked away at the back – like that jumper you thought you’d wear or a dress that you save only for special occasions?

Instead of sending items to landfill when you stop using them, there are now tons of buy-back schemes that allow you to return clothing to the company and receive a credit for new clothing in return. These schemes are great for getting something in return but also help reduce fashion waste and increase resource use!

Read more about the advantages to this solution here.

#3 CARE AND REPAIR

At the other end of the spectrum, we all have that one pair of jeans that we just can’t let go of. But after wear and tear starts to take its toll, we may be tempted to throw it out..

Repairing something that’s seen better days, doesn’t mean we can’t afford to buy something new, it means we can’t afford something being thrown away. What used to be a badge of shame is now something to be proud of! Repairing clothes is practical, symbolic, creative and original. 

Fashion Revolution has a great Repair and Mend Guide that makes it easy to care for your favourite items – find out how you can give a second life to your clothes here.

#4 HOST A CLOTHES SWAP

Swapping an item of clothing may not seem like a radical act, but extending the use of our clothes is a powerful act in reducing their environmental impact. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter and second-hand shopper or trying exchanging clothes for the first time, host a clothes swap and invite your friends, colleagues or open it up to members of the public. It’s a great way to spread awareness of sustainable fashion and helps you connect with a local community!

Find out more here.

#5 WASH CLOTHES LESS OFTEN

It’s easy to assume that the main impact our clothes have on the planet is during manufacturing and distribution, but did you know that even the way we care for our clothes can leave its mark? Up to 25% of each garment’s carbon footprint actually comes from the way we wash and care for it day-to-day.

Washing synthetic clothing releases plastic microfibres which then get flushed into our waterways. And where do all drains lead? The Ocean. Microfibres are rapidly becoming a significant threat to the environment, and our clothes are one of the main culprits. 

There are lots of ways we can be mindful of this, but the simplest way to reduce the release is to wash your clothes less often!

Discover more about how you can reduce your clothes’ impact to the environment here.

#6 SMALL THINGS CAN HAVE A BIG IMPACT

Following on from our last tip, some of you may be wondering, what can I do to reduce my impact when I wash my clothes?

Studies are now showing that over 60% of our clothes are made out of plastic fibres, shedding up to 700,000 fibres in an average load. As more facts are coming to support the concern and the awareness around microfibres increases, as do the innovative ideas and inventions to help solve the problem. 

We now know that every time we wash synthetic clothing, tiny plastic fibres are washed down the drain and end up in our waterways. And though not 100% foolproof, new products like the Cora Ball and Guppy Bags can be used in your washing machine to catch the microfibres and significantly reduce their impact.

#7 CHOOSE WISELY

When the inevitable time comes to buy a new garment of clothing, take some extra time to research more about the brand, the materials they use and their lifecycle. 

With roughly over 60% of clothes manufactured being made out of harmful synthetic fibres, it can be a bit of a minefield out there. However there are innovative companies taking huge measures to ensure they produce the highest quality clothing whilst having the smallest impact.

Take Sheep Inc. for example. They were the world’s first carbon-negative fashion brand. It removes ten times more carbon from the atmosphere than the production process adds, through investment in biodiversity projects. Sheep Inc. create Merino wool, ZQ certified jumpers for men and women, focusing on 100% biodegradable wardrobe staples.

It just goes to show that if you look hard enough, you’ll discover lots of brands that are putting the planet first and make you feel great about the clothes you wear!

If you’re interested in learning more, click here.

With the growing awareness of the impacts of fast fashion, these are just a few examples of the many ways you can make changes in your wardrobe. We hope that we’ve inspired you to try something new, shift your perspective and hopefully inspire others to do the same!

—

Help us have a bigger impact and share this article with your friends too.

—

On the SHiFT platform, there are now hundreds of solutions available at just the click of your mouse and filters that help you refine the options down to the ones that are most appropriate for you.

We don’t need everyone to do everything, but we do need everyone to do something. What will your next SHiFT be?

We encourage you to share your actions across social media to inspire others to join you in making a difference in their own lives, communities, businesses and wider world.

#jointheshift

by eXXpedition Team

The post SHiFT Solution Spotlight – Clothes & Fashion appeared first on eXXpedition.