Plastic Odyssey is embarking on a new phase in its mission to combat plastic pollution, leveraging eight years of experience and a robust global network. The focus is now on large-scale missions to restore biodiversity in 50 UNESCO priority sites affected by plastic waste.
Launch of Plastic Odyssey Fund
As part of this expansion, Plastic Odyssey has launched the Plastic Odyssey Fund, co-founded by Simon Bernard, Alexandre Dechelotte, and Fabien Lamaison.
Scaling Cleanups: Biodiversity Hotspots Restoration Missions
Building on its 2024 Proof of Concept mission on Henderson Island, Plastic Odyssey is launching large-scale Biodiversity Hotspots Restoration Missions at 50 remote UNESCO Marine Heritage Sites, where plastic waste concentrations can be 400 times higher than the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
These initiatives will employ advanced extraction methods and mobile recycling units, making cleanups cost-effective at $10 per kilogram—ten times more efficient than traditional methods. Each mission will utilize a sail-powered fleet to operate within delicate ecosystems, transforming collected waste into durable products through mini-recycling facilities in coastal communities.
Fundraising Campaign
To support these efforts, Plastic Odyssey is initiating a $30 million fundraising campaign over the next six years. The funds will focus on restoring marine biodiversity and protecting coastal ecosystems while simultaneously creating a sustainable model for cleanup and recycling. Volunteer opportunities will also be available to involve the community.
Several events are planned for 2025 to celebrate this milestone, including the Yachting Luncheon at the St. Francis Yacht Club and “The Ocean Night: Navigating a Plastic-Free Future” at 9Zero in San Francisco, featuring a panel moderated by Janelle Kellman, a Candidate for Lt. Governor of California. Additional events in major cities, including New York and Seattle, will further engage the ocean community, while the latest Plastic Odyssey documentary will screen nationwide to inspire action against plastic pollution.
