Christine Figgener, PhD
Christine Figgener is a German marine conservation biologist, author, science communicator, and ocean advocate, recognised for her work in sea turtle conservation and the fight against plastic pollution.
"As a sea turtle biologist, I have seen the pain and suffering that plastic pollution is causing to our marine wildlife over more than 15 years. Already-endangered sea turtles ingest plastic, lose flippers and other body parts because of plastic – and often die a slow and painful death as a result.
While this is not the only threat sea turtles face, it is a threat that results from our human lifestyles, conveniences, and individual actions, just as much as from our consumption-centred economy. Our plastic pollution crisis is a global problem – a problem that often seems overwhelming – a problem that cannot be solved by one person, but only collectively.
Naturally, it was a great honour to be named an Ambassador for World Cleanup Day, giving my face to the global effort of mobilising and inspiring people to do their part. It’s also a great honour to go out on World Cleanup Day and repair some of the already existing damage, and be a role model for a plastic-free lifestyle and conscious consumption beyond that single day."
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