Tell us about your passion for ocean conservation.

Kim: I am an ocean enthusiast and environmental activist who loves sharks. I try to bring sharks into every conversation about marine conservation and work hard to challenge the misconceptions about them. Living in Scotland I have never been far from the sea, so I am very aware of the impact our actions can have on the marine environment.

Why and when did you get involved?

Kim: Early 2017 I felt that I needed to do something big for ocean conservation and I was looking for a charity that combined my love of sharks and my dislike of marine debris. That is how I came across Project AWARE and Finathon. I decided to do 12 months of fundraising setting myself different challenges. So far, I have completed a 5K and a 10K, given up beer for 21 days, picked up litter on my street for seven consecutive days, and organized and participated in beach cleans. I have about six months left and plenty more challenges to come in 2018.

What has been the highlight so far?

Kim: The whole fundraising experience has been a highlight, the Project AWARE fundraising team are a great support. Out of my challenges so far it would have to be organizing a beach clean. So many people stopped to ask what we were doing and it was a great opportunity to talk marine debris with a lot of interest expressed for future beach cleans. I always like to talk about the global reach of Project AWARE and how individuals are encouraged to take direct action against marine debris.

And finally, your top three pieces of eco advice?

Kim: I'd say,

1. Don’t flush wet wipes. They are not flushable and cause all sorts of problem.

2. Use a reusable water bottle.

3. If you can, try leave the car at home and walk or take public transport to work.

You can help Kimberly reach her Finathon goals by heading to www.finathon.org/kim-cooper