The Response
Our Organization
The Clean Oceans Project (TCOP) is a 501c3 non-profit created to develop efficient and effective methods of eliminating plastic from the ocean.
Our Plan
TCOP’s multi-phase approach involves research, education and direct action integrated into a cohesive long-term plan.
Training shoreline surveyors creates local awareness and promotes ocean stewardship. Our survey “kit” provides tools and instructions for students globally to gather relevant data and share their knowledge of the impacts of plastic pollution. Trainees may be selected for future offshore expeditions.
To measure progress we monitor plastic debris deposition rates at isolated shore stations which is far more accurate than oceanic sampling. Teams can clean specific shorelines and even entire islands to a microscopic standard temporarily removing the threat to the environment and resetting the baseline.
Disposal
TCOP will utilize plastic-to-fuel conversion systems on board collection vessels to transform plastic into diesel fuel eliminating the need to dispose of the waste in a landfill and providing fuel for collection operations. TCOP will share these technologies with local residents enabling them to convert an insidious pollution problem into a valuable resource. This financial incentive will motivate local residents to clean their shorelines and steward their plastic waste stream in the future.
Long Term Commitments
TCOP is committed to a comprehensive global approach to plastic pollution.
We are committed to research and technical innovation to facilitate an accurate awareness of plastics pollution.
TCOP is committed to sharing information on plastic pollution or innovative technology to enhance operational solutions for increasingly efficient plastic waste management.
TCOP is committed to replicating our project model and cleanup efforts in the other gyres.
Support and Funding
TCOP seeks support from corporate and philanthropic entities to provide operational funding and logistical support.
Our Message
The survival of our species depends on the health of our oceans and they are in a rapid state of decline. Oceans play a critical role in maintaining our climate by storing solar heat and carbon, and provide food, recreation, and inspiration. The time has come for us to restore the health of our oceans.
No single solution will eliminate plastic pollution and each effort should be supportive of the next. Complacency is the enemy. Although there are different ideas for response everyone agrees there is a problem.
Let us work together as an ocean community wherever possible.