What was the journey to Antarctica like and what was your consideration for the carbon generated to get there?

MT: Getting to Antarctica involves travelling to the other side of the world, taking one of the longest flights imaginable: about 36 hours long. As an environmentalist, I know that the journey’s high carbon output seems counter-intuitive. It was tempting to write it off and buy carbon offsets, but I felt the gravity of responsibility even more acutely. This is why I’m making sure that I create more carbon-positive impacts from the expedition. I don’t take the cost lightly.

Read more: Robert Swan and his son Barney on embracing adventure, fighting climate change and braving polar expeditions

What did you know about Antarctica before the expedition?

MT: I knew the climate crisis had its most severe impact on the region. I was prepared for my emotions to be overwhelmed and my heart to be shattered.

The polls indicated that the impact of the climate crisis had been especially severe in this area, with the South Pole warming three times faster than the rest of the world. I knew seeing it in person would be worse than I imagined.

Climate change is incremental, with small additions every single day that are usually invisible. We are so far removed from the South Pole that it’s easy to forget about the issue. I knew that seeing it up close would be a heart-wrenching experience, but I was also determined to use that heartbreak to fuel my advocacy efforts.

What were your objectives for the expedition and how did you achieve them?

MT: During the expedition, we discussed and established resolutions and strategies to implement back in our home countries to empower every person, community and country to reduce and offset carbon emissions. The goal is to achieve global net zero by 2035 and bring transformative change.

My task is to help produce a feature documentary and organise an exhibition showcasing wildlife photography and other research we conducted in Antarctica.

In the next few months, I will be creating content, starting a podcast and engaging with other Malaysians and stakeholders to learn more about the interconnectedness between Antarctica, the ocean, climate, and health.

Read more: We can still save Malaysian reefs, says marine biologist Alvin Chelliah

What was your biggest takeaway from the expedition, and what would you like to share with others who haven’t had the chance to see the climate impact on Antarctica?

MT: Raising awareness alone is not enough—it must be followed by action. This expedition could easily have taken place without any lasting impact. Taking action and adding value to the situation is important; using our skills and networks to achieve something. If we simply complain about the situation without taking action, we are complicit in the problem.

My message to everyone is to find roles where you can positively impact the environment. Be a mediator, look for potential opportunities and act on them. Every changemaker started at the same point. Don’t wait for someone to tell you what to do because we all have the potential to create change.

Malaysia may be a relatively small country, but we can contribute to climate action. It is important to have a mutual understanding of how we are connected to the global impacts that reach even the most remote parts of the world.

See more honourees from the Sustainability category on the Gen.T List 2022.

NOW READ

The entrepreneur who is inspiring others to live a waste-free life

Why startups need to take ESG seriously, according to two venture capitalists

How Singapore designers are using ChatGPT, 3D-printing and sustainable materials at Milan Design Week