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Anti-plastic pollution campaigner Joanna Ruxton named Aurora Expeditions’ conservation ambassador

IMAGE: Alastair Scarlett CRUISE_Jo_Ruxton.jpg
First ambassador Joanna Ruxton's focus is on safeguarding oceans through responsible travel
Described by Sir David Attenborough as ‘The person responsible for the plastic-free movement,' anti-plastic pollution campaigner Joanna Ruxton has been named Aurora Expeditions' first ocean conservation ambassador.

It follows the cruise line's decision to name ship Sylvia Earle and its decks after several leading female voices in the science and conservation arena. 

‘Female scientists and conservationists are leading the way in global initiatives to protect our planet,’ remarked Monique Ponfoort, CEO, Aurora Expeditions. ‘Jo’s contribution highlights the devastating impact of plastic waste found in ocean ecosystems [that] has helped to turn the tide against single-use plastics.

She went on to add, ‘Transformational and responsible travel sits alongside respect for the world that we all share. By supporting Jo’s incredible vision to safeguard the ocean, we hope to inspire our guests to contribute sustainably to the fragile relationship between man and mother nature.’ 

Educating and engaging passengers

Ocean Generation aims to eliminate human threats to the ocean within a generation. So explained Ponfoort, ‘Through her charity Ocean Generation, Jo’s goal is to inspire an inclusive global movement to restore a sustainable relationship between humanity and the ocean. This is entirely in keeping with Aurora Expeditions 30-year heritage of responsible and respectful expeditionary voyaging.’

Ruxton commented, ‘Together we hope that new ship Sylvia Earle, named after the esteemed American Oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, will be part of the “change engine” that will educate and engage audiences across the globe.’ 

Sylvia Earle houses a citizen science centre, alongside an interactive programme led by its on board expedition team.