Irish Scoresby Sound Expedition 2022 receives OCC Challenge Grant
by Daria Blackwell 27 Feb 2022 07:34 UTC
Renland - South Coast from Bear Islands © Ken Palmer
In July 2022, 'Danú of Galway' will depart from Ireland for Scoresby Sound, East Greenland, the largest fjord in the world. The team will comprise of a small group of independent adventurers aiming to sail to and climb in this remote landscape. On the way they will sample for microplastics as part of a scientific collaboration with the Trinity College Dublin's Centre for the Environment. They will monitor both salt and fresh water sources throughout their time in Scoresby Sound. This data will be used in improving global knowledge of microplastics in Arctic waters.
OCC member Peter Owens, expedition leader is a mountaineer sailor with many years' experience. He has put together a strong team that aims to be self-sufficient in Arctic terrain, with a strict policy of 'leave no trace'. A number of exploratory mountaineering objectives have chosen on Milne Land and Renland, within reach of the coast, using the yacht as a floating base.
The OCC is pleased to support this expedition and has awarded a Challenge Grant towards the voyage costs. This grant is the eighth to be made since 2019. A variety of challenging projects have been supported in that time, including unsupported, non-stop, singlehanded circumnavigations and several environmental maritime research projects. Dustin Reynolds, a double amputee adventurer who recently completed a solo circumnavigation previously received a grant to support his voyage.
The scheme has two categories; the Adventure Challenge Grant and the Conservation Challenge Grant. Prior membership of the OCC is not required in order to apply. If you, or someone known to you is planning a particularly ambitious sail-exploration or is planning a similarly ambitious maritime conservation or environmental project, consider applying for an OCC Challenge Grant.
Further details including eligibility criteria and how to apply are available on the OCC website: www.oceancruisingclub.org