Logistics and Maritime Studies final-year student Joe Wang Hongrui took part in a fully sponsored Antarctic expedition from 5 to 18 March, and learned about the effects of climate change and how to protect the last great wilderness on Earth. The expedition is a programme organized by the environmental group 2041.

The twenty-two year old student learned about this annual activity three years ago when he attended a talk by Robert Swan, the polar explorer and founder of 2041. Since then, it had become Joe’s dream to join the expedition.

After a six-month selection process, Joe was chosen as one of the seven members of the expedition’s China team. He was also the only undergraduate student representative from Hong Kong.

After teaming up with other members from around the world, Joe started his journey in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. In addition to exploring various locations along the Antarctic Peninsula, team members also participated in personal leadership and sustainability programmes to learn the importance of preserving Antarctica.

During the 14-day journey, Joe observed that “human beings are really insignificant when facing the Nature. But we are doing things that can have great impact on the environment.” Joe is hoping that he can participate in other 2041 programmes in future and continue to work for the conservation of environment.