The Clean Ocean Project

There's a big problem with ocean plastic, and it seems that it's only going to get worse unless we take action. In fact, a new study from the International Energy Agency is warning that the amount of plastic in our oceans may double by 2030. We must protect our oceans, as they are a critical part of our life on earth, and to survive and prosper, we need healthy oceans. 

The ocean is the largest ecosystem on earth, and is the planet’s life support system. Oceans generate half of the oxygen we breathe and, at any given moment, they contain more than 97% of the world’s water. Living oceans absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and reduce climate change impacts. The diversity and productivity of the world’s oceans is a vital interest for humankind. Our security, our economy, and our very survival depend on it. 

The Clean Ocean Project is a non-governmental organization based on Fuerteventura founded in 2000 by Wim Geirnaert. Their main concern is to protect the oceans, waves and beaches by reducing and eventually eliminating disposable plastic use which results in pollution. Their approach is simple, they are driven by the idea that everybody is part of the problem - and the solution. Do your bit, be part of it.

Wim spent half of his life on the Canary Islands to live his dream and live by the Ocean. He came to Fuerteventura in 1993, looking for a relaxed and peaceful life, close to the shore. He had always dreamed of surfing every day and from the very first moment, he felt at home. It was love at first sight. The northshore became his playground. However he noticed that the beaches were dirty, and full of litter. Somehow the rough coastline looks indestructible but it isn’t - It’s a fragile ecosystem, and yet sadly, everybody used it as a dump. There was no respect towards nature at all, and something had to be done.

He spoke with friends and they organized the 1st Beach Cleaning in Cotillo in 2002. They met at the beach, invited friends and neighbours to join, gave them t-shirts, gloves, bags and windbreakers, and worked the whole day. The Clean Ocean Project was born. The progress they have made is outstanding. The oceans are much cleaner, and more awareness is being brought to the critical issues of ocean contamination and importance of ocean health. 

 Whether you live on the coast or far from it, whether you eat seafood or not, you and the future of all those you love depends on healthy oceans. Do your part and keep the health of our oceans in the forefront of your mind. Share the message, educate your friends and family, and reduce your use of plastics when possible.

 

A portion of proceeds from our famous white and gold oyster necklace will go towards supporting the clean ocean project!

 

Find out more here: http://www.cleanoceanproject.org/