As a member of the outdoor community, I am acutely aware of the impact my activities have on the natural world. I’m far from perfect in minimising my impact, but I try to recycle, limit my driving, and use items for as long as possible before replacing them. I travel by air at least once a year for trekking or expeditions, in addition to one to two flights annually for work and family holidays. I do not foresee discontinuing air travel in the future, and I am uncertain about the overall effectiveness of carbon offsetting flights.

In line with my commitment to environmental responsibility, I have chosen to contribute to the 1% for the Planet initiative by donating 1% of the costs associated with each trek I undertake. Unfortunately, there is no mechanism in place for me to donate 1% of my writing income as a sole trader to this initiative without incurring large membership fees. Instead I have recently begun making small but regular donations to a range of conservation charities.

For the period of 2024/25, I am pleased to support the following organisations through monthly and one-time donations:

• £4.00 per month to the Woodland Trust

• £3.50 per month to the John Muir Trust

• £1.63 per month to the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust

• $10 one-time donation to Polar Bears International

• £21.70 one-time donation to 1% for the Planet for my upcoming Finland expedition.

I remain committed to these contributions and exploring further ways to support environmental causes.