Team to begin 10-year ocean study

Project inspired by Jacques Cousteau

One boat, 10 years, 100 marine reserves, 1,000 experts and seven billion hopes. These are the figures propelling the team behind a groundbreaking oceanic expedition set to launch on July 11th, when “Fleur de Passion” – a converted WW2 ship – will depart from Marseilles, beginning a decade-long international adventure.

Behind the project is the Swiss based Antinea Foundation, inspired by Jacques Cousteau - a self-labelled oceanographic technician much celebrated for his innovative marine research. With the ambition of Cousteau in mind, the “Changing Oceans” expedition aims to explore 100 of the planet’s most threatened marine regions over the following 10 years. The Foundation’s objective is three-fold: to contribute to scientific understanding, raise public awareness concerning marine protection and to include the wider public in their experience.

A multidisciplinary team will investigate pollution, renewable energy, biodiversity and pharmacology. For those back on dry land, information will be transmitted through a number of online methods - including Google Earth mapping and publishing images captured by a camera installed on a shark. The team also plans to dock at destinations along their route, to educate locals through talks and activities focused on the importance of preservation.

With 80% of life on Earth found in the sea, but less than 20% of oceans explored, the Antinea Foundation is leading the way in a much-needed effort to promote research into this valuable, yet neglected area.

For more information, visit www.antinea-foundation.org