Orascom Development has formed a partnership with The Arctic Challenge, which is launching a record-breaking 1,500 km rowing expedition across the Arctic Ocean.
Throughout their journey, The Arctic Challenge’s team will conduct vital scientific experiments, collecting critical data on the impact of climate change on this ecosystem, it was shared.
Orascom Development is an Official Partner of The Arctic Challenge, which is also backed by the UN Environment Program ‘Clean Seas’ initiative.
The Arctic Challenge team’s specially designed vessel, the “Ocean Guardian,” is an eight-metre boat without an engine, motor or sail and is equipped with solar panels for navigation and a desalination machine that will supply essential drinking water.
The UAE-based team is set to row non-stop from Tromsø, Norway, to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, traversing the “Devil’s Dance Floor,” during a voyage that is expected to take 20-25 days.
Omar El Hamamsy, Group CEO of Orascom Development, commented: “As a champion of change, we support pioneering initiatives, like The Arctic Challenge, that inspire the next generation of community leaders and push boundaries to contribute to a more sustainable future for all.”
Speaking on the expedition, Toby Gregory, leader of The Arctic Challenge and founder of The Plastic Pledge, said: “By rowing in the warmer months of the summer, we can raise awareness about the changes in climate that have made it possible for us to be the first to row to the Arctic Iceshelf at 80 degrees latitude. This highlights how much the ice is retreating due to the changes in our planet’s climate.”
Beyond the expedition, The Arctic Challenge, in collaboration with Orascom Development, will focus on expanding its educational outreach program.
The initiative aims to connect with students globally through guest lectures, events, and interactive learning materials, inspiring the next generation of scientists, explorers, and environmental leaders.
Over the past two years, the team, through The Plastic Pledge, has engaged with over 200,000 students across over 60 schools and universities in the GCC.
Together with Orascom Development, the team aims to inspire one million students to connect with the project and highlight the importance of the global community.