What Will They Eat? How Will They Stay Warm?
From angry polar bears to Arctic chill, adventurers talk shop.
March 31, 2008 — -- During the next two months, explorer Will Steger and six young adventurers are traveling across Ellesmere Island, following in the footsteps of other legendary polar explorers. The team will visit ice shelves that have all but disappeared because of climate change. The group is now training. Members of the group will regularly file reports from their 1,400-mile journey. Four members of the group -- Toby Thorleifsson, Ben Horton, Eric McNair-Landry and Sam Branson -- answered questions before their departure.
ABC News: What about this expedition is so important to take off months from your life to do it?
Thorleifsson: This expedition is important because it highlights and brings attention to the most important issue of our time. In addition we represent the generation that will face the consequences of global warming and be the ultimate leaders in solving this problem. Compared to the magnitude of what we are facing, four months is really not enough -- but it is what I can do.
Horton: It won't be long until expeditions to the Arctic like this won't be possible anymore. To be a part of it is not only important for present generations, but for the generations who follow us that may not get a chance to experience it like we did.
Branson: Not only is it going to be a great experience -- being out on an expedition, exploring a place few people have -- it will help to educate younger generations about the effect global warming is having on the area and what that could mean for them at home.
McNair-Landry: This is my life. I take time off in between expeditions.
ABC News: What are you most nervous about? What are you most excited about?
Thorleifsson: I am actually most nervous about the flight to Resolute. I have never liked flying. The cold is OK -- it is more uncomfortable than something to be nervous about. I am most excited about the nature and wildlife. What I have seen of Arctic nature and wildlife so far in my life has been grand and breathtaking. It is literally like going to a different planet.
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