NOVARA One Planet, a pioneering climate change research vessel, has set sail from Oban, two years after the project’s inception on the west coast of Scotland.
The Novara project aims to address coastal erosion and climate adaptation in coastal communities. Through their experience in climate action, the Novara team will engage in community-based research, education, and adaptation planning, helping communities take action, secure funding and further the conversation around climate change.
Focusing their efforts on educating and raising awareness of the issues of coastal erosion, Novara will be sailing to some of the world’s most remote coastlines to document the state of climate-compounded coastal hazard risk.
The project is led by Dr Nigel Jollands and Veronica Lysaght. Originally from New Zealand, the couple has been working on climate finance and leadership coaching for the past 30 years.
Dr Nigel Jollands has worked extensively on climate change research, action, and policy throughout his career, having administered climate and environmental action plans for numerous cities.
The project will also allow Veronica Lysaght, founder of ‘Leading with Humanity’ to ensure she continues to assist those who are making a change in the world.
Working alongside keen sailors and climate researchers across their journey, the Novara One Planet project will allow the couple the opportunity to combine their two passions, sailing and the environment. Having set sail on this expedition the pair are now seeking to make a positive impact on the communities they visit.
Dr Nigel Jollands said: “The mission of Novara is to help and support coastal communities address climate adaptation through adjusting to their changes in climate, whether that be dealing with flooding issues, sea level rise or changes in precipitation levels. Raising awareness and facilitating access to funding are our aims of the project.”
The Novara vessel is a high-latitude expedition yacht custom-built to be self-sufficient for months at a time. Designed by Dykstra naval architects and built by KM yacht builders in 1977, she is an aluminium hulled Bestevaer 60c. Constructed by Damon Roberts of Magma she was designed as an ice breaker vessel with a unique aero rig. New solar panels have now been installed on the bimini and coach roof.
Having visited Campbelltown and Oban, the Novara team are now en route North to Lerwick for the Shetland Climate Festival where they will hold a workshop on June 10th ‘Next Steps for a Climate Safe Shetland’.
ENDS
Notes for editors:
For further information:
Caroline Jones
07787424485
caroline@grm.agency
Fergus McKilligin
07960657317
fergus@grm.agency
For expedition information contact directly:
Veronica Lysaght
07757939940
veronica.lysaght@gmail.com
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