Creative Upcycling of Ocean Waste

Additionally, another report by the World Economic Forum reveals that research shows reusing just 10% of plastic products would reduce the amount of plastic waste reaching the ocean by 50%.

Below are a few organisations and brands, some of which are working collaboratively, to combat ocean pollution through sustainable upcycling. These efforts represent a growing commitment to sustainability and innovation, turning a serious environmental problem into creative solutions.

TIDE OCEAN SA

Tide Ocean SA, originally associated with the Swiss Watchmaking Industry through its parent company, Braloba Group, discovered a new avenue in sustainability. This journey began when the founder Thomas Schori investigated the possibility of using ocean plastic for watch straps, only to find that not many had ventured into this area before.

He further researched to understand the damage caused by ocean plastic and to turn it into a high-quality raw material. This new material, referred to as #tide ocean material, was developed with the Swiss University of Applied Sciences.

Tide Ocean SA is proud to declare that their #tide ocean material contains zero percent virgin plastic. Moreover, their unique upcycling process is responsible for up to 80% less CO2 emissions than the production of traditional plastics. Tide Ocean SA's mission is to encourage companies to replace their existing plastic with #tide ocean material, promoting a sustainable future.

        

In a recent partnership, Seacliff Beauty has joined hands exclusively with #tide to create ocean plastic packaging, an innovative initiative in the realm of beauty products. This collaboration aims to breathe new life into plastic waste by introducing high-quality packaging made from ocean bound plastic.

BRACENET

Bracenet, based in Hamburg, Germany, specialises in crafting upcycled bracelets from ocean ghost nets. The name "Bracenet" is a fusion of "bracelet" and "net." Through their innovative approach, Bracenets transforms old, used fishing nets into stylish accessories, like bracelets, underlining their mission: “Save the Seas. Wear a Net.”

        

Their aim is not only to create fashionable items but also to raise awareness about the serious issue of marine pollution. They report that an additional million tons of these discarded nets, which continue to endanger marine animals, end up in the oceans each year. As part of their commitment to environmental responsibility, Bracenets has donated 200,000 Euros, recovered 773 tons of ghost nets, and upcycled 190 kilometers of nets so far.

PARLEY FOR THE OCEANS

Parley for the Oceans is a global environmental organisation that unites creators to raise awareness about ocean pollution and collaborates on projects to prevent its destruction. One notable collaboration is Adidas x Parley, in which they have worked together to identify immediate solutions and invest in research and development.

       

This collaboration led to the creation of the world's first supply chain for upcycled marine waste, producing products like Adidas' concept shoe made from upcycled plastic. Launched in 2015, the partnership between Parley and Adidas continues to thrive, making significant impacts and mobilising millions in the fight against ocean plastic pollution.

OCEAN SOLE

Ocean Sole, a registered non-profit in Kenya, aims to clean polluted beaches and provide employment opportunities to artisans within vulnerable communities. They hand-collect discarded flip-flops and transform them into unique, upcycled art.

        

The organisation's unique approach involves collecting discarded flip-flops from the coast of Kenya and converting them into vibrant, exquisite, one-of-a-kind art pieces. By turning waste into art, Ocean Sole raises awareness about ocean pollution and provides an innovative solution to marine debris.

Upcycling ocean waste into new products is an innovative and vital approach to reducing environmental harm. Transforming harmful debris into valuable resources contributes to sustainability and ocean health, addressing a serious and growing problem.