Jack Lee, Sailing for the Sea
Jack Lee
Are all Montrealers so cool? First, we featured Ryan Stotland, cycling the world to help fight climate change. Now, we introduce his equally cool Montreal friend Jack, who's taking on a similar eco-mission—only on a sailboat and for the oceans.
A seafarer from a very young age, Jack wished to turn his passion for the great big blue into financial support for a cause he cares deeply for, the Marine Conservation Society of London. As of April, Jack started his sail around the circumference of Great Britain, starting in London under the historic Tower Bridge—passing through the Irish Sea to the top of Scotland. Before he comes back full circle, ending his journey in July, follow Jacks adventure (warning: envy might sink in once you see his close-ups with dolphins) on his blog and consider pledging a donation!
Planet Green: How did you get into this line of work?
Jack Lee: Day dreaming…
PG: What was your "a-ha" moment?
JL: When I found the Marine Conservation Society and knew I wanted to get involved.
PG: Who is your green hero?
JL: Captain Planet.
PG: What is your ultimate green goal?
JL: Clean our seas and educate people on the damage being done--i.e. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is six times the size of Great Britain and growing…
PG: What is your motivation?
JL: The diverse and beautiful wildlife in the sea—wild dolphins are so cool!
PG: What is most important to you, ecologically speaking?
JL: Protecting marine wildlife and cleaning our beaches to preserve their natural beauty.
PG: What is the most challenging part of your job?
JL: Getting on deck when the winds are howling and the rains are beating down.
PG: What is the most rewarding?
JL: Combining something I love with a great cause.
PG: Of the people you have worked with, who impresses you most?
JL: My good friend Ryan Stotland (www.12000km.org).
PG: What green thing do you do everyday?
JL: Sail.
PG: What do you wish you could do?
JL: Make a difference and have a say.
PG: What is your biggest eco-sin?
JL: Using the inboard motor when the winds are dead.
PG: If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
JL: The way we treat our oceans and the misconceptions about the impact it is having.
PG: What is your best green advice?
JL: If you see some rubbish, pick it up! You'll feel good about it and so will your Karma.
Change Makers is series of interviews with people famous and obscure who are creating a more sustainable world through their work. Meet more Change Makers here.
