GRIP, Internships Abroad Reef Reflections

GRIP: Business in Sydney

Descending down the ladder into the crystal clear water, the weight of my oxygen tank and scuba gear disappeared. Bubbles rose towards the surface as I inhaled deep breaths through my mouthpiece. As I oriented myself to my surroundings, it felt as if I was exploring an underwater city.

The reef’s vibrant corals create a stunning backdrop for an ecosystem brimming with marine life, from brightly colored Angelfish darting around to Nemo (a clownfish) resting peacefully in an anemone. The highlight of my dive was the close encounters with several Oceanic Whitetip Sharks and Maori Wrasse, showcasing the diversity of the reef ecosystem.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and was designated a World Heritage Site in 1981. This reef is home to the world’s largest collection of coral reefs and over 1,500 species of fish. During my experience interning abroad through the GRIP Business in Sydney program, I have had the opportunity to explore much of Australia and New Zealand’s natural ecosystems. From the Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest rainforest, to the natural beauty of Queenstown, NZ with its mountain ranges surrounding Lake Wakatipu (where the Lord of the Rings was filmed), these past 8 weeks have deepened my appreciation for our planet’s diversity and extraordinary landscapes.

These ecosystems are unique and breathtakingly beautiful, yet so fragile and susceptible to human interference. During my dives at the Great Barrier Reef, I witnessed how sections of the coral had started to bleach and turn white. Seeing the impact of climate change and rising ocean temperatures firsthand has enabled me to comprehend the urgency and importance of protecting our planet. 

My interest in sustainability, fueled by these experiences, was part of my motivation to work for Misio, a climate tech startup based in Sydney. Through my internship experience, I have been able to learn about the climate tech ecosystem in Australia and develop a stronger understanding of global sustainability initiatives. Engaging in conversations with founders and investors in this space have also provided invaluable insights. Among the discussions, a conversation with Hullbot's founder was particularly inspiring. They utilize underwater autonomous robots to clean the hulls of ships. To date, they have achieved a 55% reduction in fuel consumption for their clients, and serve as a testament to what is possible when you apply technology for positive change.

As I return home to my life and Penn, I will take back not only the wonderful memories and new experiences but a renewed commitment towards preserving the ecosystems that we call home. From the fragile marine ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef to the dynamic climate tech ecosystem of Australia, the interconnectedness of our world creates a powerful narrative – one that calls for collective action, to engage in our responsibility to preserve the place we call home.