We know that the impact of the oceans on the life of the planet is absolutely transformative: they provide much of the Earth’s oxygen, regulate the climate, are a source of food, create jobs and contribute to the global economy, facilitate transportation and trade, promote scientific development, are a source of energy, and affect human health (how many of us have felt the need to go see the sea and smell the salty air?).
We also know that the oceans are becoming poorer and that the quantity and quality of water are no longer the same, making it an increasingly scarce resource due to overexploitation. This makes it all the more fascinating to see how Entrepreneurs worldwide continue to find innovative and creative ways to use water, turning it into a force for the conservation of the oceans and the flora and fauna they sustain, whether directly or indirectly.
Water thus becomes a source of inspiration for many Impact Projects. Therefore, we asked our Entrepreneurs to share their experiences and explain how their work contributes to the conservation of the oceans and the life they support and promote. These are four projects that focus on the circular economy, fighting waste, reusing materials, and protecting marine life. They also recognize the importance of bringing communities and institutions into the conversation, educating, training, and including them, inviting them to do their part, and making this mission common to everyone who lives on the planet and benefits, once again, directly or indirectly, from the oceans.
On this World Oceans Day, get to know their mission better:
“Celebrating Earth Day with Circular Ocean: Pioneering Sustainability from Sea to Shore
As we approach Earth Day on June 8th, we at Circular Ocean are reminded of the incredible impact that innovative and sustainable practices can have on our planet. Circular Ocean, a proud recipient of support from Casa do Impacto, is dedicated to addressing the critical issue of marine pollution by transforming discarded fishing nets into a sustainable raw material that can replace virgin plastic.
- > The Problem: Marine Pollution and Its Impact
The ocean, which cover over 70% of our planet, is essential to life on Earth. Yet, it faces unprecedented threats from pollution, particularly from plastics. Discarded fishing nets contribute significantly to this problem. These nets not only pollute the ocean but also pose a severe threat to marine life, entangling and killing countless sea creatures, and emitting high levels of CO2 in current methods of disposal – burning.
- > Our Solution: Circular Economy and Innovation
Circular Ocean aims to turn this problem into a solution through our innovative recycling process. By collaborating with the fishing community, we collect discarded nets and transform them into a new sustainable raw material. This material can replace virgin plastic in various applications, reducing the demand for new plastic production and helping to mitigate the environmental impact.
Our project goes beyond environmental benefits; it also has a significant social impact. By working closely with local fishermen, we raise awareness about the importance of sustainable practices and provide financial incentives for their participation. This collaborative approach not only helps in reducing marine pollution but also strengthens the community’s commitment to protecting the oceans.
- > Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
Circular Ocean is driven by a vision of a world where waste is minimized, and resources are used efficiently. Our work aligns with the global movement towards a circular economy, where products are reused, repaired, and recycled rather than discarded. By doing so, we contribute to a future where the health of our oceans is restored, and marine life thrives.”
Mafalda de Freitas, Director
“Harnessing the Transformative Power of the Oceans for a Better Future
As we mark this special date, it’s important to recognise the transformative power of oceans in creating a positive impact on our world. At the heart of our work is a commitment to harnessing this power to address pressing social and environmental challenges. Our project is more than just an initiative; it’s a movement towards sustainability and resilience. We are inspired by the vast potential of our oceans to not only sustain life but to drive meaningful change. By focusing on the health of our marine environments, we aim to safeguard the intricate balance of ecosystems that countless species, including humans, rely on. This work is crucial in combating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring that our natural resources are preserved for generations to come.
One of the most rewarding aspects of our journey has been the collaborative spirit it has fostered. We’ve joined hands with communities, organizations, and individuals who share our vision of a sustainable future. Together, we are building solutions that are not only innovative but also inclusive, ensuring that everyone has a stake in the health and prosperity of our oceans.
As we reflect on our progress, we are filled with hope and determination. The environmental impact of our project is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a common purpose. Each step we take brings us closer to a world where thriving oceans are a reality, benefiting both nature and humanity.
In sharing our story, we aim to inspire others to recognize the immense potential that lies in our water and ocean resources. Let us celebrate the creative and innovative ways we can build a sustainable future, one that honors and protects the invaluable gift of our planet’s waters.
Together, we can create a legacy of positive impact, ensuring a healthier, more vibrant world for all.”
Andrew Ryan, Co-Founder and CEO | Alessandra Sellini and, Co-Founder, CSO e CTO
“Ghost Network: Transforming Ocean Waste into Sustainable Solutions
Did you know that an estimated 640,000 tons of nets and other commercial fishing gear are dumped or lost in the sea every year? This abandoned, lost, and discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), commonly known as ghost nets, pose a severe threat to marine wildlife, indiscriminately catching ang killing animals for decades, contributing to the decline of biodiversity in our oceans. Addressing this issue is critical for ocean conservation and the health of marine ecosystems.
Sea Shepherd Global, renowned for its direct-action campaigns against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, has launched the Ghost Network project to tackle the problem. This innovative B2B platform is designed to partner with businesses to repurpose or recycle collected fishing gear, turning waste into valuable resources and supporting a circular economy.
The Five Commandments of the Ghost Network:
- 100% Repurposing: Ensuring all collected fishing gear is repurposed or recycled.
- No Exclusion of Materials: Accepting all types of materials for repurposing or recycling.
- Traceable through Blockchain: Using blockchain technology for transparent and accountable supply chain tracking.
- Part Proceeds to Sea Shepherd: Contributing a portion of the proceeds to support Sea Shepherd’s conservation efforts.
- Mandatory Sustainable PLM: Implementing sustainable practices throughout the product lifecycle.
Since its creation by Sea Shepherd Partnerships Manager Christopher Storey in Setubal, Portugal, the Ghost Network continues to grow. The next steps involve scaling operations to more ports across Portugal. A new partnership with the Port of Lisbon includes setting up a shipping container at the port to store collected fishing gear.
Collaborations with local businesses are key to the project’s success, transforming the collected nets into useful products. One of the latest partnerships involves Sea2see, a company known for creating eyewear from marine plastic waste. Their Sea2see x Sea Shepherd capsule collection will be sold exclusively in Optivisao stores throughout Portugal, with part of the proceeds benefiting Sea Shepherd’s marine conservation efforts.
For those interested in supporting or partnering with the Ghost Network, more information is available on the Ghost Network website.”
Christopher Storey, Partnerships Manager
- > SEATHEFUTURE:
“Investing in the Ocean is Investing in Our Future
SeaTheFuture: The Crucial Role of All Stakeholders in the Preservation and Regeneration of the Ocean
It is no understatement to say the ocean is the reason we can live on earth. Over millions of years, it changed the planet’s atmosphere making it habitable for humans; and it gives us so much every day, from essentials such as a food source and climate regulation to the simple pleasures of life like snorkeling or surfing. For years, our rhythm and lifestyle has brought several threats to the ocean such as pollution, overfishing and habitat destruction, slowly taking from the ocean its ability to give. Now it’s time to change the tides – it’s time to give back to the ocean.
SeaTheFuture was born from a need for the world to unite and fight for the wellbeing and protection of our ocean. Be it for the preservation of biodiversity, our economy or of our future generations. Unfortunately, the climate crisis is overwhelming, and this stops many people from taking action in a critical time where everyone needs to take part. However, we also recognize that most people are not equipped with the knowledge or time to understand which projects to support.
With SeaTheFuture we hope to counter this climate anxiety and inaction in by simplifying the process for everyone. Our team takes the time to study the projects and uses a certified selection process to bring onboard projects that are doing incredible, results-driven work in ocean conservation. These initiatives work with different species and habitats around the world with different areas of focus such as community work, research and innovation and policy change. Our platform provides people with a concrete space to come together, collectively fund and follow projects which are making a real impact to our oceans.
Still, SeaTheFuture is more than a platform. We are a movement where people can see the power of collective action.
We’re here to change the tide- it’s time to give back to the ocean. Join us!”
Assunção Loureiro, Managing Director
Will you join them? This World Oceans Day seems like a great excuse!
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