Covering 330 nautical miles (611 km), he battled through the mass of plastic waste – an area more than six times the size of the UK. By establishing a world record in his 80-day long expedition, Ben not only showcased the dire state of our oceans but also inspired others to make changes in their daily lives, such as shunning single-use plastics and opting for alternative materials.

But this went beyond the physical challenge; besides raising awareness of ocean pollution, Ben’s mission was to gather crucial data to help develop a better understanding of the issue at hand. His team has taken on 11 scientific research projects in total, assisting numerous institutions in their study of microplastics and how currents shift debris.

As a marathon swimmer, Guinness World record holder, author, speaker, and entrepreneur, Ben has made it his passion to champion the ocean for his children and for future generations. Learn more on Ben’s website and follow him on Instagram.