Mission Spiritus, a bold and ambitious campaign dedicated to advancing environmental research and inspiring the next generation of stewards, is excited to announce its upcoming Oman Expedition, taking place from 4th to 26th January 2025. Led by renowned polar explorer and Mission Spiritus founder Alan Chambers MBE, this expedition marks the second of seven planned science-focused missions following the success of the Antarctica Expedition (November 2023 – January 2024).
A Call for Global Action
Mission Spiritus is a bold and ambitious initiative comprising seven major science-focused expeditions to gather micro and nanoplastic samples from some of the world’s most remote locations. Through adventure, research, and education, the campaign seeks to catalyse global efforts to protect and restore ecosystems essential for human and planetary health. Its objectives include:
- Advancing research into the presence and impact of micro and nanoplastics in remote regions.
- Studying human resilience and adaptability in extreme environments.
- Inspiring millions of children to plant and protect forests, creating a legacy of environmental preservation.
About the Oman Expedition
The Oman Expedition will see the team traverse 679 miles of the vast and unforgiving Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert on Earth. Over 26 days, the team will endure temperatures exceeding 40°C, fierce sandstorms reaching speeds of 50mph, and rugged terrain that will test their endurance and resilience. Travel methods will include 4×4 vehicles, camels, on foot, and even a hot air balloon, showcasing the innovative approach of the mission.
Key Goals of the Oman Expedition
- Scientific Research: Collect 52 sand samples to conduct the most comprehensive study of micro and nanoplastics in this remote desert region.
- Human Performance: Study how humans adapt and perform under extreme conditions, contributing to research on resilience and endurance.
- Environmental Awareness: Inspire action to protect and restore natural ecosystems by demonstrating the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of safeguarding our planet.
Building on the Success of Antarctica
The Oman Expedition follows the Antarctica Expedition, where Mission Spiritus successfully gathered snow samples and advanced critical research in one of the planet’s harshest environments. These missions are part of a larger effort to address the pervasive presence of microplastics, which have been discovered in even the most remote corners of Earth.
A Collaborative Effort with Columbia University
Mission Spiritus Oman is conducted in partnership with the Columbia Climate School’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, a global leader in environmental research. This collaboration underscores the campaign’s commitment to advancing critical scientific insights into the distribution of micro and nanoplastics, one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Interviews and Press Opportunities
Alan Chambers MBE will be available for interviews upon his return to the UK at the end of January 2025. Journalists are invited to discuss the Oman Expedition, its scientific findings, and the broader goals of Mission Spiritus. Alan’s insights into navigating extreme environments and the urgent need for environmental action provide an opportunity for impactful storytelling.
Until 2nd January 2025, media enquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Billy Perham
Operations Manager
billy@missionspiritus.com
+44 (0) 7809 138219
From 3rd January 2025, media enquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Karim Salama
Marketing & Comms Partner
karim.salama@e-innovate.co.uk
+44 (0) 7952 512774
