5 September 2024

Applications for Leaderbox Blue citizen science project launched by local marine environmentalist Monty Halls 

Sponsor and official clothing partner of Dartmouth Royal Regatta Sailing Week, Henri-Lloyd, is supporting renowned marine environmentalist and broadcaster Monty Halls in his call out for local groups, schools, organisations and individuals to put forward ideas for marine conservation and research projects to be carried out in the South Hams area.

Working closely with Monty, who lives in Dartmouth, Henri-Lloyd is one of the first companies to sponsor his Leaderbox Blue project, a scheme which enables anyone – individually or as part of a group – to get actively engaged in a marine conservation project as part of his drive to increase citizen science research in the marine world.  

Working on the premise that people derive much more from physically engaging with marine conservation, Leaderbox Blue enables citizen scientists to get involved with hands-on projects. Leaderbox Blue aims to launch more than 1,000 community marine conservation projects nationally and internationally within five years.  

A kit contained within a rugged fully waterproof case, Leaderbox Blue contains all the elements required for projects which cover key areas – Beach Clean, Habitat Restoration, Biodiversity Survey and Awareness Campaign.  The system comprises a support network with website and group forums, help-line and e-learning facilities, and all the equipment required to carry out the chosen project is contained within the box.  This includes activity and data cards, handouts, system paperwork, quick start guide, risk assessments and insurance documentation.  The box also contains the data forms, collection equipment, radios, gloves, and first aid kit.   

Amy Hawke, Store Manager of the Henri-Lloyd store in Dartmouth says the company is encouraging anyone who has an idea for a marine conservation project to apply for the Leaderbox Blue in store.  Applications will be assessed by Monty Halls who will choose the winning entry.

Amy says, “Anyone can apply, from individuals to families, or groups such as wild swimming groups, sailing or rowing clubs, charities and trusts, schools, teams and communities.  Whether it’s setting up a beach clean, pledging to remove waste and plastic from the coastline, monitoring wildlife or promoting and publicising an existing project, the Leaderbox Blue enables activation of a marine conservation project and makes many more people contribute in a meaningful way to citizen science projects and help protect and preserve the natural marine environment that we enjoy here in Dartmouth.” 

Applications can be made online here: https://www.montyhalls.co.uk/contact-us

For more information about Leaderbox Blue watch this short reel here: https://vimeo.com/244977187