What impact will your cleanup technology have on floating organisms (neuston) in the ocean?
The Environmental Impact Assessment conducted by CSA (independent third-party) for our technology estimates that impacts of System 03 on Neuston likely range from negligible to low. However, we acknowledge that it is difficult to determine what positive or negative impact will occur between our technology and floating organisms (neuston) as little is known about the interaction of these organisms with this offshore environment, plastic, and our technology. There is still much to learn, hence the need for continued research. Fortunately, our operations provide a unique platform to conduct regular and systematic research on this under-studied topic, helping us to understand our potential impact on the marine environment and providing greater insights into these organisms. We are currently investigating the seasonal dynamics of neuston and how they relate to plastic accumulation in the GPGP and beyond.
To read more about our findings, preventions, and mitigations in the System 002 campaign, you can visit this update. See also our update on research on neuston in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.