Lucknow resident Dhruv S, who had recently won the title of “Indian Climate Champion”, is set to embark on an arctic voyage to study more about climate change.

A Class XII student at Seth M R Jaipuria School, Dhruv will be part of an international group of high school students taking part in the “Cape Farewell Youth Expedition 2008”. He left for Canada on Saturday from where he will sail to the Arctic.

Chennai girl Shruti K N is another Indian student who has been selected for the voyage. In all, 12 students from across the globe are participating in the expedition besides 16 from Canada.

Dhruv was selected for the international project after a nationwide competition organised by the British Council. The project, designed to raise awareness about climate change, is the brainchild of British artist David Buckland.

It brings together top scientists, artists, educators and high school students from around the world on an Arctic voyage of discovery. During the trip, science projects will be developed in areas such as climatology, oceanography, geomorphology and biogeography.

Dhruv, who has even set up a climate change issue-based blog in his name, is interested in trying to discover ways to reduce the carbon footprint of an area.

“He believes that he has the strength to convert thoughts into action and can help build a sense of gratitude and affection for our environment,” said his mother Ujwala.

She added: “He is passionate about science and has participated in technology festivals and other competitions at the Regional Science Centre, where he has won debate and quiz competitions.

He has also represented his school in seminars and field visits conducted for merit scholars at the National Botanical Research Institute.”

British filmmaker Colin Izod, dancer Subathra Subramaniam and biogeographer Rebecca Zalatan of the British Council will also be a part of the expedition.