Emma Wolstenholme, a 43-year-old rower from Burnley, is making significant progress in her unassisted journey across the Atlantic Ocean as part of the Call to Earth team. As of midday today, the crew has approximately 775 nautical miles remaining in their ambitious 3,000-mile crossing, which aims to raise awareness about climate action and marine conservation.
Striving for Sustainability at Sea
Wolstenholme, who attended St Hilda’s RC Girls’ School and Nelson and Colne College, previously gained recognition in March 2023 for setting a world record as part of an all-female crew rowing around Great Britain. This latest challenge sees her and her team rowing in shifts around the clock, relying solely on solar power to navigate the unforgiving Atlantic waters.
The crew follows a demanding routine that involves two hours of rowing followed by an hour of rest during the day. At night, they take solo watches, rowing for one hour and resting for two. Despite the harsh conditions—facing wind gusts between 20 to 30 knots and encountering marine life such as dolphins and a six-foot blue shark—morale remains high among the team. They recently undertook a dramatic rescue of a turtle caught in a fishing net, showcasing their commitment to marine conservation.
“Being surrounded by water every day highlights just how valuable a sustainable approach to its use really is,” Wolstenholme stated, emphasizing the importance of responsible water management.
Empowering Action for Climate Change
As the crew continues their journey, they remain mindful of their environmental impact, accounting for every piece of plastic and waste generated. The boat is equipped with solar panels that power critical systems, including a water maker that converts seawater into fresh drinking water, allowing the team to sustain themselves on this challenging expedition.
The Atlantic row is supported by Water Plus, a business water retailer, which partners with Call to Earth to promote sustainable practices and solutions to reduce carbon emissions. Wolstenholme expressed the urgency of addressing climate change, stating, “Our mission sees us amplify this message with Water Plus, to inspire and increase actions on sustainable practices.”
Wolstenholme is joined on this mission by Stacey Rivers, a STEM Ambassador, and John Hammond, a former air force pilot. As they navigate towards Antigua, they anticipate stronger winds and plan to adjust their course as conditions permit. The team is not only striving to complete the grueling row but also raising funds for marine conservation and climate initiatives along the way.
With their journey reflecting both personal resolve and a commitment to global issues, the Call to Earth crew illustrates the power of individual action in the face of climate challenges.
