Rebecca Manzi 4ocean is committed to cleaning the oceans and recently the team collected around 1,200 kg of waste, including over 1,350 cigarette butts from which they created a whale and a turtle
@4oceans
Since 2017, 4ocean has been prominent in actively and sustainably taking part in the commitment to reduce waste in the ocean, especially plastic pollution. Founded by surfers Andrew Cooper and Alex Schulze after a trip to Bali, the organization has grown to become a global force in the ocean cleanup. It funds its operations through the sale of bracelets and other merchandise, with each purchase contributing to the removal of at least 2.2 pounds of plastic from oceans and coastlines. This is part of their “One Pound Promise” program, which has removed millions of pounds of waste worldwide.
The 4ocean crew has recently gathered approximately 2,645 pounds of waste, including more than 1,350 cigarette butts—small items that can cause serious ecological damage. These seemingly harmless leftovers contain toxins like heavy metals and microplastics that contaminate water and endanger marine animals.
To illustrate the negative effects of cigarette trash on marine life, team members built a whale and a turtle using the cigarette butts they had gathered. These sculptures send an undeniable message about the importance of protecting our oceans and the life within them.
The continued struggle with marine trash
Beyond the symbolism of these sculptures, they also highlight the urgent need to raise awareness about plastic pollution and its devastating effects. The constant littering of shores with cigarette butts, bottles, bags, and other waste poses a grave threat to the environment, as non-biodegradable materials make cleanup efforts increasingly challenging.
Marine debris not only destroys the natural beauty of underwater ecosystems but also causes long-term harm to wildlife. Projects like 4ocean show that collective actions, such as recycling and reducing single-use plastics, can make a significant difference. By helping the oceans regenerate, we can offer a brighter future to marine biodiversity and ourselves.
Cigarette butts are made from cellulose acetate, a type of plastic that takes years to decompose, releasing toxic chemicals into the marine environment during the process. Microplastics from these small items are often ingested by marine wildlife, resulting in severe health issues for animals and, indirectly, for humans through the food chain.
It is estimated that every year, at least 1 million seabirds and tens of thousands of marine mammals die from ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic waste. This environmental disaster impacts not only the marine ecosystem but also coastal communities, tourism, and fisheries—ultimately affecting the overall quality of life.
how we can all make a difference
Adopting sustainable habits, reducing single-use plastics, and participating in beach cleanup projects can significantly improve the state of our oceans. Together, we can create cleaner oceans and a healthier planet for future generations.
