4ocean has reached a huge milestone: it has removed over 18 million kg of plastic and waste from oceans, rivers and coasts

The fight against marine pollution has reached a new important milestone thanks to 4oceanthe organization that thanks to the commitment of its volunteers has managed to remove further 40 million pounds (18 million kg) of plastic and waste from oceans, rivers and coasts around the world.

Founded in 2017 by Alex Schulze and Andrew Cooper after a trip to Bali, the initiative has grown from a local cleanup to a global movement that operates seven days a weeksupported by a network of beyond 200 professionals.

Everyday, 4ocean removes approximately 20,000 pounds of debris (9,000 kg) from waterwaysa result made possible thanks to collaborations with companies, donors and the sale of iconic products such as bracelets made from recycled materials.

For every product sold, another 5 kilos of waste are extractedhelping to fund cleanup operations and ecological restoration projects. The organization uses innovative tools such as 4ocean TrashTrackera database that monitors the entire cycle of recovered materials, from recovery to recycling.

4ocena avoids harvesting techniques that could harm marine communities

Plastic pollution in the oceans represents one of the most critical environmental challenges, with over 440 million pounds of waste that end up in the sea every year. This situation threatens delicate ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves and marine fauna. Unlike other initiatives, 4ocean takes a responsible approach, avoiding harvesting techniques that could harm marine communities.

Among his most important projects is the River of Changein collaboration with Corona International, which has removed further 139,000 pounds of trash from the Rio Motagua in Guatemala. Plus the new one 4ocean Foundationa nonprofit launched in 2024, aims to expand cleanup operations through partnerships with NGOs, foundations and individuals.

4ocean’s commitment is not limited to the removal of plastic: the organization invests in the rehabilitation of ecosystems and supports communities affected by marine pollution. As a member of 1% For the Planetdonates at least 1% of annual sales to environmental initiatives and is verified as carbon neutral.

According to Alex Schulze, the goal achieved is just the beginning. In fact, he declared:

Thanks to our partners and supporters, we are building a circular economy for materials recovered from the oceans. Every step brings us closer to a cleaner planet and a healthier ocean.

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