Hey all!

I've been honoured to be part of the student-led project 'Sail Against Plastic', seeking to carry out vital baseline studies on marine plastic and noise pollution around Svalbard. We'll be publicising what we find not just through academic papers but through a high quality documentary film, childrens' educational storybook and other media.

To reach this ambitious target we've been crowdfunding, partnering with corporate sponsors and holding fundraising events. I'm massively indebted and grateful to friends and family who have supported us this far, however we're unfortunately falling short on this, and we've got to lay down some costs ahead of the voyage coming up on the 23rd of June. This is a fantastic opportunity for me to contribute to a project as a Scientific Officer, trying to give a damn about what we're doing to our surroundings and really make a difference. To show commitment and see this through I've had a small idea...

To cover the cost of my flights (~£450) I'll be shaving my long beloved beard, possibly the proudest achievement thus far of my adult life. Those who know me best, and perhaps even slightly, know how much of a loss this will be. If you've got any pennies to spare, please would you consider if you'd be able to help me out a little- and finally see me baby faced? The time and place for the great shave is yet to be confirmed (approx. June 1st), but I'd be delighted to have your company there in return for your help. For a twist, the highest bidder on donation gets to shave me.

Cheers guys, find more info about our project here: https://crowd.science/campaigns/sail-plastic-collaborative-sailing-expedition-investigating-unveiling-invisible-pollution-arctic-ocean/#description

P.S. The moustache stays.