The Ocean Cleanup Research Expedition
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, located between Hawaii and California, is large – twice the size of Texas. At The Ocean Cleanup we want to map the patch to study plastic pollution, and we need your help to do it.
In summer 2025, we are seeking keen sailors and seafarers who have a passion for ocean conservation and who want to take part in Citizen Science.
HOW TO HELP
AUTOMATIC DEBRIS IMAGING SYSTEM: ADIS
We use our highly innovative AI camera, Automatic Debris Imaging System (ADIS) to monitor and map the distribution of plastic debris in the oceans. Simply install a camera at the highest possible point on your vessel (usually the mast) facing the ocean surface. ADIS will make the rest; by taking photos of plastics afloat at sea and send these data back to The Ocean Cleanup HQ.
GHOST-NET HUNTER: GPS TRACKERS
Using GPS tracking buoys, you can help us tag lost or abandoned fishing gear and ghost-nets. This helps us track and model where these large items are afloat and shows us where we should target our cleanup efforts. As a Ghost-net Hunter, your mission is to attach our GPS trackers to abandoned fishing gear found at sea and release them back again.
OTHER WAYS TO HELP
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Complete a marine debris survey
Help us collect data about marine debris. It’s easy and can be done from almost anywhere using the The Ocean Cleanup Survey App. Contribute to our mission by providing us with valuable insight from your location.
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Observe marine life
Over 900 species are impacted by plastic pollution, of which over 100 are endangered. Marine life often mistake plastic for food or get entangled in discarded fishing gear. If you sight any wildlife on your voyage, send us a photo and GPS location.
JOIN the Research Expedition
If you cross the Great Pacific Garbage Patch this summer, follow the link and let us know how you want to help us map plastic pollution