
German yachtsman Boris Herrmann has once again finished the Vendée Globe, the solo, non-stop, around-the-world sailing race, aboard his IMOCA 60 yacht, Malizia – Seaexplorer. Beyond the pursuit of sailing excellence, Herrmann’s mission is deeply intertwined with environmental advocacy, encapsulated in his rallying cry: “Climate Action Now!”.
Since 2018, under the “A Race We Must Win – Climate Action Now!” campaign, Herrmann has seamlessly integrated sailing, science, and education. His vessel is equipped with a state-of-the-art laboratory, OceanPack™ RACE®, that collects invaluable oceanographic data in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology, GEOMAR, and AWI. This initiative not only underscores the critical role oceans play in regulating our climate but also emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change.
This advanced equipment continuously measures essential parameters, including sea surface temperature, salinity, and carbon dioxide levels, even in the most remote ocean regions. The data collected offers scientists a deeper understanding of ocean health and its influence on global climate systems. In addition to Boris Hermann’s racing yacht, 3 other teams also have the SubCtech system on board: Holcim, Oliver Heer and Newrest!
In the NDR documentary “Boris Herrmann – Segeln am Limit: Boris Herrmann – Das Rennen,”, viewers gain insight into the oceanographic aspects of Herrmann’s voyage, particularly the deployment and functionality of the OceanPack™ RACE® system during the Vendée Globe. This segment highlights how Herrmann’s commitment transcends competitive sailing, positioning him at the forefront of climate action through tangible scientific contributions.
Herrmann’s dedication serves as a compelling reminder of the symbiotic relationship between human endeavors and environmental stewardship. His efforts not only advance the sport of sailing but also champion the imperative cause of climate action, inspiring individuals and organizations worldwide to engage in sustainable practices and support scientific research.
For a closer look at Boris Herrmann’s journey and his integration of scientific research in sailing, you can watch the NDR documentary here: