Imagine a world where our oceans are free from plastic pollution. That’s the vision of The Ocean Cleanup, a non-profit organization dedicated to removing plastic from the seas and stopping it at its source. What started as one teenager’s idea has now become one of the most ambitious environmental projects in history.

In 2013, an 18-year-old named Boyan Slat was diving in Greece when he noticed more plastic than fish. Instead of ignoring the problem, he developed a plan to clean the oceans using floating barriers that capture plastic while allowing water to pass through. This idea led to the creation of The Ocean Cleanup, which has now grown into a global movement.

Since its launch, The Ocean Cleanup has removed over 10,000 metric tons of plastic from the ocean, making significant progress in the fight against pollution. Their biggest focus has been the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a floating island of trash twice the size of Texas. Using innovative technology, they have already cleaned up large portions of this waste. 

Beyond ocean cleanups, the organization has also tackled the problem at its source. They introduced Interceptor™, a system designed to stop plastic in rivers before it reaches the ocean. These devices are now operating in rivers around the world, preventing thousands of tons of plastic waste from entering the seas each year.

The Ocean Cleanup aims to remove 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040. With continuous improvements in technology and support from volunteers and donors, they are turning what once seemed impossible into reality. Their work is a reminder that one idea, backed by determination and innovation, can change the world.