Beth Langley

What’s the work that you do?

I’m a PhD student researching carbon storage in Arctic marine sediments. With the Arctic warming up to 4 times faster than global averages, I’m interested in how increased temperatures may affect carbon storage in marine sediments. Recently, my work has involved participating in a research cruise sailing in and around the West coast fjords of Greenland where I collected seafloor sediments to investigate rates of carbon remineralisation and which microbes are responsible for carbon breakdown. This research will help us explore the future potential capacity of these sediments to act as efficient carbon sinks in a changing world.

What keeps you going?

The Arctic is a breathtakingly beautiful corner of our world, yet it is facing increasing pressures from human activity. I am driven to work in these regions to witness and experience this untamed beauty whilst there is still time. My first trip to the Arctic was awe-inspiring, leaving a mark of inspiration that propels my ongoing dedication to work in these areas. I want to be part of the crucial endeavour to protect and conserve these vulnerable landscapes.

What’s your message to the world?

Step out and explore the wonders of our extraordinary planet. Seek to understand it, respect it, and unite in the collective effort to safeguard our precious world.