Edges of Earth

By the time we got to Chetumal, we’d been through the ringer—salt-crusted, bug-bitten, sunburned, and barely rested from back-to-back dives. But when we arrived at the ECOSUR Research Center to meet the team studying Taam Ja’, the world’s deepest blue hole, our excitement overpowered our exhaustion. A few months earlier, we had come across a paper written by Dr. Juan Carlos Alcérreca-Huerta, detailing this newly confirmed 425-meter-deep blue hole. Sitting across the border in Belize, we knew we had to reroute our expedition to see this discovery ourselves. To get here, we worked with Juan Carlos, Jesús Poot-Villa (the fisherman who first identified the hole), and a whole crew of researchers eager to uncover its secrets. Only hours after arriving in Chetumal, we had taken our own dives in the blue hole, dropping down to 45.5 meters—knowing only six people had been here before. Juan Carlos and a powerhouse team, including Dr. óscar F. Reyes-Mendoza, Dra. Laura Carrillo, and MSc Laura María Flórez-Franco, have identified unique shifts in temperature and salinity within the hole, hinting at a possible connection to the Caribbean Sea. The way Taam Ja’ behaves—hidden under Chetumal Bay’s rough, murky waters and yet calm and spring-like at its depths—presents a geological mystery. With salinity and temperature readings revealing dynamic layers, this discovery could rewrite what we know about the geological behavior of the Yucatan Peninsula. For the ECOSUR team, Taam Ja’ is a pivotal, career-defining project. Thank you to the entire team who welcomed us and allowed us to be some of the first people in the world to dive Taam Ja’—Jesús Artemio Poot-Villa, Dr. Juan Carlos Alcérreca-Huerta, Dra. Laura Carrillo, Dra. Teresa álvarez-Legorreta, Dr. óscar F. Reyes-Mendoza, Dr. Joan A. Sánchez-Sánchez, MSc Laura María Flórez-Franco, and MSc Johnny Valdés. Read the story here: https://lnkd.in/gEeS_emH #deepestbluehole #chentumal #mexico #yucatanpeninsula #deepdive #divemexico #discovery #bluehole #ECOSUR #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth

It's easy to think we’ve discovered all there is to know about Earth. With our planet mapped by satellites and almost every detail visible online, the age of exploration can feel like a thing of the past. But that’s far from true. With just 20% of the ocean explored, there are still countless wonders waiting to be uncovered. One of the most recent? The discovery of the world’s deepest blue hole in Chetumal Bay, Mexico! When we heard about this finding by local fishermen and researchers, we were shocked—it was practically hiding in plain sight, so close to the mainland. Curiosity led us to contact Dr. Juan Carlos Alcérreca Huerta, the scientist behind the study, and to our surprise, there was almost zero coverage on this epic discovery. Why had it gone undetected for so long? We dove into this question with Dr. Alcérreca and the ECOSUR team and learned that the conditions of Chetumal Bay—a mix of rough, murky waters—kept this hidden gem from view. Even the most advanced drones couldn’t spot it from above. Visit STORIES in bio and head to MEXICO to read about our experience diving the world’s deepest blue hole. #deepestbluehole #chentumal #mexico #yucatanpeninsula #deepdive #divemexico #discovery #bluehole #ECOSUR #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth #wearessi #divessi #ssi

We did something cool. Really cool. We went to Chetumal, Mexico—a place very much off the grid on the Yucatan Peninsula—and dove what is now recorded as the deepest blue hole in the entire world. It beats China’s Dragon Hole, which previously held the title of the world’s deepest blue hole at 301 meters. But for us, we were lucky enough to be some of the first people on the planet to dive down into this unknown portal to see what sits at around the 50 meter mark. Not to mention, we were the second and third women on the planet to dive here. What was down there? You’ll have to read all about our expedition to Taam Ja’, the blue hole that is 425 meters below sea level and likely much, much deeper … Visit STORIES in bio and head to MEXICO. #deepestbluehole #chentumal #mexico #yucatanpeninsula #deepdive #divemexico #discovery #bluehole #ECOSUR #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth

Our time on Turneffe Atoll, living onsite at Calabash Caye Field Station, was legendary, thanks to two incredible teams: ERI and TASA, each committed to protecting this unique marine ecosystem in critical, yet different ways. With the Environmental Research Institute (ERI), we got a hands-on look at the science side of conservation. ERI’s team invited us to dive alongside them, showing us their SCTLD (stony coral tissue loss disease) treatment process, which involves meticulously applying antibiotics to infected coral—a painstaking but vital effort to slow the disease. ERI’s mission extends beyond disease management; they’re involved in coral spawning research, reef restoration, and studying genetic connectivity in marine species to help develop sustainable practices for Belize’s reefs. Meanwhile, TASA (Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association) took us into the heart of Turneffe’s conservation enforcement. Their rangers patrol the atoll, monitoring fishing activities, ensuring compliance with strict marine zoning laws, and educating locals about sustainable practices. Working closely with community members, TASA balances conservation with socioeconomic needs, particularly around fishing, which is necessary to local livelihoods. Their enforcement zones preserve the atoll’s biodiversity while allowing communities to benefit sustainably from its resources. ERI and TASA demonstrate the power of combining science, enforcement, and community involvement to protect Turneffe Atoll as well as Belizean culture and heritage as well. To read more about our partnerships while on the atoll, visit STORIES in bio and head to BELIZE! #belize #scubadiving #diver #scuba #turneffeatoll #atoll #barrierreef #greatbarrierreeffoundation #resilientreef #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth #coralreefs #coral #protectourreefs #MPAs #marineprotectedarea #tasa #ERI #belizeuniversity

Throughout our time at the Calabash Caye Field Station, there was a woman on the frontlines of climate change, instrumental in the fight against SCTLD: Bonnie Young. She’s a passionate researcher with the Environmental Research Institute (ERI) who has dedicated years to studying Belize's reefs, and works side by side with local rangers to tackle the devastation of this “underwater pandemic.” Her knowledge and commitment were evident each day as she led the team through painstaking fieldwork to treat infected corals, document the spread, and understand the broader impact on marine life. Bonnie is guiding new coral restoration and resilience projects to help these reefs recover in the long term. This includes coral spawning studies, genetic analysis of marine species, and collaborative work with local fishermen and dive guides to create a sustainable, community-driven conservation model. Bonnie and the ERI team are all about creating a collective mission that goes beyond science alone. Their work, especially in the face of challenges like SCTLD, acts as one of those progress stories that shows what’s possible when dedicated people unite to protect what they love. Although SCTLD has taken tight grip of Belize’s coral here, this team isn’t ready to give up hope for a restored future! Want to read more about Bonnie’s coral work? We thought so! Visit the STORIES link in bio and head to BELIZE. #belize #scubadiving #diver #scuba #turneffeatoll #atoll #barrierreef #greatbarrierreeffoundation #resilientreef #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth #coralreefs #coral #protectourreefs #MPAs #marineprotectedarea #ERI #belizeuniversity

Meet Valdemar Andrade, the man who’s been leading TASA (Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association) for the past eight years. After twelve months of exploration, we’ve encountered few people who merge their love for their country, passion for conservation, and business acumen the way Valdemar does. We dove into the challenges of building resilience at Turneffe—economic and ecological alike. Valdemar spoke with refreshing honesty about their progress: “Turneffe is getting better—more coral cover, less algae, stronger fish populations. But we are far from optimal.” His approach to seeing measurable change? Break down big issues like the climate crisis into specific, actionable steps, always backed by data and set up like a business plan. And he’s unafraid to turn down funding if it doesn’t meet his standards of impact. “If you can prove your impact, you’ll get the support you need,” he told us—a sentiment that captures his entire approach. Conservation, business, and science must go hand-in-hand to create lasting change, and Valdemar’s vision for Belize’s “insurance for the future” is exactly what inspires us to keep doing what we do. To read more about Valdemar’s life-long work in conservation, visit the STORIES link in bio and head to BELIZE. #belize #scubadiving #diver #scuba #turneffeatoll #atoll #barrierreef #greatbarrierreeffoundation #resilientreef #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth #coralreefs #coral #protectourreefs #MPAs #marineprotectedarea #tasa

Ever heard of Turneffe Atoll? Sitting about 33 miles off Belize’s coast, it’s the largest atoll in the western hemisphere and a true stronghold for biodiversity. Covered in mangroves, expansive seagrass beds, lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s a vital sanctuary for Belize’s marine ecosystem. As a remote marine reserve, Turneffe is home to manatees, dolphins, nesting sea turtles, and countless fish species, making it one of Belize’s richest areas for marine life. Designated a protected area in 2012, Turneffe represents the final piece in Belize’s conservation network—a stunning, resilient ecosystem designed to thrive against a backdrop of climate change. Our time here showed us just how deeply Belize values its ocean heritage. Turneffe’s protective mangroves, thriving seagrass beds, and coral systems—now in recovery after the devastation of stony coral tissue loss disease—are testaments to the impact of focused conservation. Collaborating with: Great Barrier Reef Foundation, Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association #belize #scubadiving #diver #scuba #turneffeatoll #atoll #barrierreef #greatbarrierreeffoundation #resilientreef #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth #coralreefs #coral #protectourreefs #MPAs #marineprotectedarea #tasa

During the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Edges of Earth Expedition, collaboration with the High-Level Climate Champions, collectively showcased an intimate and compelling look at what a year and a half of living alongside communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis truly looks like. #COP29 serves as a pivotal moment to accelerate global action against climate change, and this feature sought to inspire deeper commitment and collaboration as we move into 2025. The collective team highlights untold stories of resilience and innovation from some of the most remote and vulnerable places on the planet—where the effects of the climate crisis are felt every single day. From scientists and conservationists to indigenous leaders, divers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and young activists, the people captured in this journey are forging hope in the face of extraordinary challenges. These are the individuals who refuse to back down, working tirelessly to protect our shared future through solutions that address marine conservation, ocean-based renewable energy, aquatic food systems, shipping, and coastal tourism. Through their vision and action, we’re reminded that progress is possible. As the High Level Climate Champion’s Ocean Breakthroughs initiative acts as a guiding light, the Edges of Earth team is in the field documenting the importance of collaboration, financial investment, capacity-building, and inclusion of all voices in the fight for climate resilience. Watch our short feature here! #climatechange #climateaction #resilientplanet #collaboration #sustainability #oceanconservation #oceanbreaktrhoughs #ocean cc: Marla Tomorug, Adam Moore, Cyrielle Lam & Kristina Rodriguez

Here’s a little dive story you don’t hear every day: a quest to boil eggs underwater in a volcanic lake! The plan was simple (in theory): head to Lake Atitlán in the heart of Guatemala, find geothermal vents hot enough to cook eggs, and let nature do the rest. - Step 1: Prep for altitude diving - Because Lake Atitlán sits over 1,500 meters above sea level, we had to get altitude certified. This type of dive is a whole different ball game and requires extra planning and adjustments. - Step 2: Select our "ingredients” - We grabbed a few eggs, drew little faces on each for personality, gave them some names, a pep talk about their future, and suited up in our best vintage dive gear to set the mood for our wild mission. - Step 3: Locate the heat - Our target: Agua Caliente, a dive site known for its volcanic hot spots. At around 18 meters deep, we could actually feel the geothermal heat radiating up through the silty lakebed. - Step 4: The cooking - Carefully placing each egg on a hot vent, we let the volcanic heat do its thing. While a full boil would require a 24-hour cooking time (according to locals). - Step 5: The Taste Test - Back on land, we finished cooking the eggs. Each bite had a subtle hint of earthy minerals from the lake’s volcanic vents, leaving that special taste lasting in our mouths! Want to try and make your own hard-boiled eggs on a volcanic vent in the middle of Central America? You can! Read all about getting to Lake Atitlán by visiting the STORIES link in bio and head to GUATEMALA to check out our story in DRIFT Travel. #guatemala #scubadiving #volcano #lakeatitlán #consciousexploration #edges #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth

Guatemala is a place where adventure and cultural immersion go hand in hand, and for us, it was Lake Atitlán that drew us in. Known as Central America’s deepest lake, this spectacular “bowl” of water is ringed by towering volcanoes and eleven villages steeped in Mayan heritage. Beyond its scenic beauty, Lake Atitlán offers rare, off-the-beaten-path diving experiences that come with unique challenges and rewards. Our first stop was the legendary backpacker haven, La Iguana Perdida, nestled in the village of Santa Cruz. Since 1995, this hostel has been connecting travelers to each other and to the natural beauty of the lake. Taking a break from documenting conservation projects, we came to Lake Atitlán for two specific reasons: first, to learn altitude diving, and second, to try our hand at something a bit more unusual—boiling eggs underwater. Yes, you read that right. Diving in Lake Atitlán is a one-of-a-kind experience, especially with its volcanic hot vents. Once a quirky local tradition, egg-boiling underwater hadn’t been done in a long time, until our arrival. Rediscovering and reviving this forgotten ritual with our new friends made it one of our favorite dive memories yet, and a reminder that not all epic dives mean encountering megafauana or pristine reefs. Many times, the best dives have you looking a little bit closer to the smaller, sometimes unnoticed things. You must be wondering, how did we boil those eggs underwater!? Read all about it by visiting the STORIES section in our website and head to GUATEMALA. #guatemala #scubadiving #lakeatitlán #consciousexploration #climatebetter #climateexpedition #globalexpedition #protectwhatyoulove #edgesofearth