Explorers Complete Arctic Expedition

25th of June 2009

15 young explorers have just returned from a 10 week Svalbard expedition with BSES Expeditions

15 Young Explorers, aged between 18-23 years old, and 7 Leaders returned on 16th June 2009 after spending 10 weeks pushing themselves to their physical and mental limits on a BSES Expeditions conservation and adventure expedition in Arctic Svalbard.

The explorers lived, camped, researched and adventured in Europe’s last true wilderness, the far flung snowy archipelago of Svalbard on the edge of the Arctic Ocean, just 600 miles from the North Pole.  Offering unrivalled opportunities for exploration and adventure, there are few roads or tracks, just range after range of high mountains and endless expanses of snow, ice, glaciers and fjords.

Students worked alongside highly qualified scientists to conduct glacial geomorphology and phenology studies, contributing to long-term projects concerning the measurement of key leading indicators of climate change.  An ornithological survey was also undertaken, gathering and collating data on some of the species indigenous to the region.

Will Taunton-Burnet, BSES Expeditions Executive Director explains further: "Svalbard is 600 miles away from the North Pole, and over 60% of the island is covered by glaciers, making it a scientists and explorers paradise.  The lucky team cross-country skied across remote and stunning landscapes, lived and camped in the Arctic wilderness, as well as working alongside qualified scientists to complete hands-on fieldwork projects with the aim of gaining a more personal appreciation for this unique environment and the issues facing it today.  

"It is only through engaging the next generation that we can hope to protect the environment in the long term. The explorers also needed to be on the look out for Polar Bears, as the Arctic is home to these endangered species."

BSES Expeditions organises challenging conservation and adventure expeditions to remote wilderness areas overseas. Opportunities exist on month-long summer expeditions for Young Explorers aged between 16 and 20, and for two- to three-month gap year expeditions for 18-23 year olds. Those over 18 and with previous expedition experience can gain leadership skills and an NVQ Level 3 through our pioneering Leadership Development Programme.

Any inspired young people keen to experience the adventure of a lifetime and brave enough to take on the challenge in 2010 should see www.bses.org.uk or the Facebook Group ‘BSES Expeditions’ for more information.

More Information:

Visit the BSES Explorers website

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