FAQ

How does The Ocean Cleanup align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

Back to FAQ

The Ocean Cleanup contributes to multiple SDGs by addressing plastic pollution, fostering innovation, and promoting global partnerships.

SDG 14: Life Below Water – “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.”

  • Alignment: By removing plastic pollution, The Ocean Cleanup directly improves marine ecosystem health.
  • Key Indicators:
    • 14.1.1: Reduction of floating plastic debris density.
    • 14.2.1: Support for ecosystem-based marine management through plastic removal.
    • 14.5.1: Although not directly creating Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), our efforts contribute to healthier marine ecosystems that support the goals of MPAs. By intercepting plastic in rivers before it reaches the ocean, we aim to reduce the pollution load in downstream coastal and marine environments, some of which include or border existing or planned MPAs.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.”

  • Alignment: The Ocean Cleanup drives technological advancements in plastic collection and recycling.
  • Key Indicators:
    • 9.5.2: Contribution to research and development in marine technology and environmental protection.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – “Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.”

  • Alignment: Collaboration is central to The Ocean Cleanup’s mission, with partnerships spanning governments, environmental organizations, and research institutions.
  • Key Indicators:
    • 17.6.1: Engagement in international science and technology cooperation agreements.
    • 17.17.1: Public-private partnerships supporting the cleanup effort through funding and expertise.
  • By actively addressing these SDGs, The Ocean Cleanup is not only removing plastic from oceans and rivers but also driving systemic change to prevent further pollution.