The Ocean Cleanup group is a non-profit organization founded by Dutch inventor Boyan Slat with an emphasis on keeping plastic out of the ocean. The Interceptor, giant trash-collecting robots, are placed strategically at the world’s most polluted rivers to keep the plastic from flowing into the ocean. All the interceptors are equipped with solar panels and rainwater collectors to remain completely off the grid and self-sustaining allowing it to collect plastic continuously, the plastic is then emptied into one of six floating dumpsters, which when filled are pulled onto the shore to be emptied and its contents recycled. The Ocean Cleanup offers sunglasses for purchase made completely out of recycled plastic pulled from the ocean with 100% of proceeds going back to keeping plastic out of the ocean. Ultimately, leading to less toxic pollutants in the food chain and a healthier environment for nearly 700 marine species.
This seems to be a viable solution to our plastic pollution problem even though like many startups it began on a small scale. With this innovation alongside proper funding we can make sure our ecosystems don't pay a special price for our way of life.