It was a privilege to attend a lecture by the legendary explorer Robert Swan O.B.E. in the first week of December, when he visited Dubai.

I have had the privilege of meeting him on earlier occasions as well. The first time I met him was in 2010 when EEG had invited him for a lecture. The photo with him two years ago is one I still cherish – attached below.

Robert Swan is the first man to walk to both poles . His current lecture series was about his upcoming Antarctic expedition from 28^th February to 13^th March 2013 titled IAE 2013 .

His ship, which is named 2041,  has a sail made of recycled materials . His previous expeditions were also about cleaning this vast land mass of the pollutants and litter.

His commitment to the environment could be seen from the fact that he cycled to the lecture venue from his ship which was berthed at Dubai port.

The lecture was attended by members of his earlier expeditions.

Mr Swan was very appreciative of my work and projects and also of the fact I too was at Rio+20. He told me that since I was only 12, I would have to wait for another 2 years before I could be eligible to join his expedition.

The upcoming expedition is open to youth 14 years and above .

Details of the upcoming expedition can be found at www.2041.com

There are still seats available and applications can be sent to :

expeditions@2041.com  

Telephone:  +1-530-587-2041

One can also join the ?2041 Antarctic Youth Ambassador Program? founded Gemma Borgo-Caratti and Swati Hingorani who attended the 2041 International Antarctic Expedition 2011.

So, if you are 14 + and care for the environment, write in to the above email or call .