On 5th June, 2018, Prime Minister Theresa May awarded Emily the Points of Light award, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Emily receives this award for her work tackling ocean plastic through scientific research and her encouragement of women and girls to become more involved in science.
In a personal letter to Emily, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Your pioneering work is doing so much to increase the visibility of both the need for action against plastic waste in our seas, and the important role women can play in taking on this major conservation challenge. The scientific research being undertaken by your inspirational all-female team of volunteers crewing the eXXpedition voyages is making a significant contribution to tackling this pressing global issue.”
The Points of Light award is awarded each day to an individual to recognise their achievements and, this week, to coincide with World Oceans Day all the award winners will be those making a real difference in ocean conservation. Emily is the UK's 919th 'Point of Light'. You can read more about Emily's Point of Light award here or discover more about Points of Light here.