Our expeditions do more than build resilience—they inspire action for our planet. By embracing eco-friendly travel, zero-waste practices, and hands-on conservation, cadets and reservists gain firsthand insight into climate change and environmental protection. These adventures foster leadership, deepen appreciation for nature, and spark lasting commitment to preserving our world’s precious resources. The evidence from our Outcome Measurement survey reports a 83% positive impact on fighting climate change.
Ulysses Trust Outcome Measurement Survey 2024
This is a summary of the 56 comments we received in the 2024 post expedition survey regarding the impact of the expedition on climate change. The information was provided by the expedition leaders and Commanding Officers of units that took part in expeditions supported by The Ulysses Trust.
Fighting climate change
Did the organisers demonstrate influence on staff, suppliers, participants and communities throughout the planning and delivery of the expedition and activities, to support environmental protection, and improvement/regeneration of the environment where possible.
83% Positive – 10% (9) Major positive impact | 35% (32) Positive impact | 38% (34) Modest positive impact | 17% (16) No impact
Sustainable Transportation Choices
- Preference for Low-Impact Travel: Many expeditions prioritized eco-friendly transport, opting for shared minibuses, trains, coaches, and public transport over flights, even when this resulted in longer journeys.
- Carpooling and Shared Vehicles: Participants frequently shared transport to reduce emissions, with some expeditions utilizing white fleet vehicles delivered locally instead of school minibuses, cutting down CO₂ emissions.
- Active and Human-Powered Travel: Several expeditions integrated environmentally friendly modes of movement, such as cycling, hiking, sailing (wind-powered), and ski-touring without lifts, emphasizing minimal carbon footprints.
Environmental Education and Awareness
- Environmental Briefings: Cadets received pre-expedition briefings on environmental responsibility, including the importance of reducing waste, conserving energy, and respecting natural habitats.
- Integration into Leadership Courses: The environment was a core theme in instructor leadership courses, fostering environmental stewardship among future leaders.
- Local Learning Experiences: Expeditions incorporated local guides and educational discussions on climate change impacts, biodiversity, and environmental conservation, increasing participants’ awareness of global environmental challenges.
Waste Reduction and Resource Management
- Zero Waste and Recycling Initiatives: Many teams practiced “leave no trace” principles, actively recycling, minimizing food waste, and avoiding single-use plastics. Some expeditions engaged in activities like litter picking and beach cleaning, removing significant amounts of plastic waste.
- Eco-Conscious Living: Participants minimized energy and water usage by sharing accommodations, using communal showers, and consuming locally sourced food to support sustainable practices.
Direct Environmental Impact and Conservation Efforts
- Hands-On Conservation Activities: Some expeditions involved cadets directly in environmental projects, such as woodland regeneration, river pollution awareness programs, and studying microplastics in the Himalayas.
- Carbon Footprint Reduction: Where flights were necessary, efforts were made to offset emissions or reduce their environmental impact, like using modern aircraft with lower emissions and choosing local service providers to minimize the need for imported equipment.
Climate Change Awareness and Impact Observations
- Firsthand Climate Impact Insights: Expeditions exposed cadets to visible signs of climate change, including glacial calving, extreme weather events, and changing snow conditions, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues.
- Cultural and Global Perspectives: Interactions with local communities highlighted the real-world effects of climate change on different cultures and environments, broadening cadets’ global environmental consciousness.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
- Consideration of Equipment and Materials: Teams discussed the environmental impact of expedition gear, focusing on sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices.
- Regulatory Compliance: Expeditions adhered to environmental guidelines, such as MARPOL regulations for maritime activities and national park rules, ensuring responsible conduct in protected areas.
Reflections and Personal Growth
- Deepened Environmental Appreciation: Cadets frequently expressed a newfound respect for nature, with reflections highlighting increased awareness of the importance of environmental preservation for future generations.
- Long-Term Impact: The expeditions instilled lasting values of environmental stewardship, encouraging participants to carry these lessons forward in their personal and professional lives.