The Expedition Journals

Looking after yourself and looking after the planet should not be two distinct pursuits. The products we choose to purchase for our daily lives and adventures have a direct impact on us – when we use them; but their manufacture has a notable impact on the environment, before they even make it into our hands. Just as you would hopefully consider purchasing recycled clothing or sustainably sourced fabrics, I believe you should also consider nature in the cosmetics that you purchase to fill your bathroom cupboards and kit bags. NATRUE is the non-profit organisation behind the acclaimed international certification standard for natural and organic cosmetics: it sets strict criteria for third-party certification of natural and organic beauty products — to distinguish truly natural cosmetics from the myriad of nature-inspired products on the market, and to help consumers navigate through the 'greenwash' that is all too common in cosmetics.  So, what are the benefits of natural cosmeti...

Adventures that feature a warm cup of coffee are the best. Whether it is sat on a beach as the sun rises on the horizon, cutting through the waves as you sail out into the deep blue ocean, or peering out from your tent at a mountain-top camp; a cup of tea or coffee is a treat, a comfort, and a kick-starter to make any adventure moment. The 16 oz Tumbler and 12 oz Coffee Mug from Hydro Flask have become my go-to choices for holding my morning brew; these sustainable insulated capsules are made from durable pro-grade stainless steel, and are durable enough for even the toughest outdoor adventures. Both the Tumbler and Coffee Mug use Hydro Flask's TempShield™ double-walled vacuum insulation technology—to keep your coffee hot for up to six hours. Both have a fantastic feel in your hand, and both come with insulated press-in lids. Whether you want to slow down and take in the view, or get going and take your drink with you on the move; this cup and tumbler will keep your favourite h...

The above photo was taken on the #KayakRTI —if you look closely, you will see a drogue net streaming out behind the support boat—a side project to the 90 kilometre sea kayaking challenge was to gain a greater understanding of the pollution in the waters around the Isle of Wight; as well as create content that promoted a 'zero waste' attitude to outdoor adventure and life. We went fishing for plastic… The sea pollution sampling project on the Round the Isle of Wight Kayak was the start of a notable change in my personal mentality towards waste and recycling. I have long been an advocate of recycling and reusing materials, and making the sustainable choice; but researching and then seeing the extent of pollution in my local waters, and knowing also of the level of roadside and landfill waste, motivated a conscious personal decision to adopt a 'Zero Waste' mentality to expeditions and life in general. Zero Waste for me, means minimising wherever and whenever possib...