WHY OUR ADVENTURE HAS TO BE A SUSTAINABLE ONE
- coastalcommanders
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
When we decided to take on an ocean rowing expedition, we knew it would push us to the edge physically and mentally. But we also knew one thing from the start: we didn’t want to achieve this goal at the planet’s expense.
As commercial pilots, we’re not blind to the environmental impact of aviation. While the industry is making strides with more efficient aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels, we wanted our next personal adventure to take full responsibility for its environmental footprint. If we’re going to inspire others, we have to lead by example.
This is our chance to prove that high-performance endurance and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Here’s how we’re making this a sustainable adventure from start to finish.
A Solar-Powered Crossing
Our ocean rowing boat is fully solar-powered.
Solar panels provide energy for navigation, communications, and water desalination. No engine, no fuel — just clean, self-sufficient power for 3,000 miles.

Minimal Waste, Maximum Awareness
Every piece of equipment and provisioning item has been selected to minimise waste.
We’ll avoid single-use plastics wherever possible, and we’re committed to bringing back everything we take with us. Nothing goes overboard — not even biodegradable items.
Reuse, Repurpose, Give Back
After the race, our boat and equipment won’t go to waste.
Much of the kit will be reused, repurposed, or sold — and the proceeds donated to our partner cancer charities. It’s one more way we’re extending the positive impact of this journey.
Low-Impact Provisioning
We’re sourcing food and packaging with sustainability in mind — prioritising low-waste, plant-based options that fuel us efficiently and responsibly.
All waste is stored onboard and brought home for proper disposal.

Offsetting What We Can’t Avoid
We can’t row to the start line — the boat needs to be shipped, and we’ll fly to and from the race. These unavoidable emissions add up to under 12 tonnes of CO₂.
To counter this, we’ve partnered with Forest Carbon, supporting certified woodland creation projects in the UK.
These projects are verified under the Woodland Carbon Code, ensuring they deliver real, long-term carbon removal while restoring native habitats and biodiversity.
No Greenwashing — Just Responsibility
We’re not claiming to be perfect. But we’re taking real, measurable steps to reduce our impact and lead by example.
This expedition is about more than the miles we row — it’s about the values we carry with us across the ocean.
If you're a brand or individual who shares those values, we'd love to connect.
This is a sustainable adventure, from launch to landfall.
Comments