Sustainability, Science & Stories: We Are Proud to Support the W.E.T. Expedition
Posted 15/04/2021
We are proud to be partnering with the Western Ecology Tour (W.E.T.), an expedition led by Andy Clark (Andy The Northern Diver), along with a team of expert divers and marine biologists.
The expedition will see the team travel from the northern reaches of Scotland, then south along the west coast to North Wales, and finally onto Pembrokeshire - diving at spectacular spots and linking up with 3 conservation projects along the way.
Their aim is to assess marine environments around the UK coast and to support the vital work that scientists are doing to protect them for future generations. The team are also hoping to support and share the stories of lesser-known conservation projects that do incredible work. The 3 projects they’re working with are Neptune’s Army of Rubbish Cleaners, Project Sea Grass and Shark & Skate Citizen Science Scotland.
Andy, is of course, extremely passionate about the cause, stating, “The UK’s marine environments are under more pressure than ever before. From the visible plastic pollution littering our beaches, to the invisible damage done by discarded fishing gear and intensive, or sometimes illegal, fishing practices that damage the seabed.
“We need a better understanding and awareness of the issues and action to protect the seas we all love and depend on.”
Throughout the expedition, the team will be living in a minimalist way, camping and cooking out in the open air. They are keen to demonstrate that such adventures can be sustainable and that trips such as these, at lesser visited dive sites, can provide an amazing UK ‘staycation’ option.
The expedition is hoping to raise over £10,000 using a mix of corporate sponsorship and crowd funding.
Andy explains, “Our aim is to donate as much money as possible to the charities on the ground and any incremental donations will help accelerate their work. In addition, we have set up a just giving page to help fellow citizen scientists, ocean advocates and supporters raise money directly to be given to the 3 projects.”
Here at Northern Diver, we are always eager to support such worthy causes to help protect the oceans and wildlife we love, and hopefully inspire others to do the same.
For more information and to keep up to date with Western Ecology Tour, check out the website here.
If you would like to donate, please visit the JustGiving page by clicking here.
