The Ocean Cleanup
Updated: December 04, 2025
Founder Boyan Slat
Country: Netherlands | Funding: $35.4M (+)
Website: https://www.theoceancleanup.com
The Ocean Cleanup is an international nonprofit project developing and implementing ocean plastic removal technologies. The company conducts expeditions to plastic accumulations in oceans and rivers (particularly to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch) and collects the plastic using its technology. Using computer modeling, the company predicts the locations of plastic hotspots and deploys cleanup systems - a massive net hold by multiple vessels - in these areas. Once filled with plastic, the containers are returned to shore for recycling and the production of sustainable products. The company has also developed a multi-layer research trawl, allowing for simultaneous exploration of 11 water layers at a depth of five meters below sea level.
Website: https://www.theoceancleanup.com
The Ocean Cleanup is an international nonprofit project developing and implementing ocean plastic removal technologies. The company conducts expeditions to plastic accumulations in oceans and rivers (particularly to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch) and collects the plastic using its technology. Using computer modeling, the company predicts the locations of plastic hotspots and deploys cleanup systems - a massive net hold by multiple vessels - in these areas. Once filled with plastic, the containers are returned to shore for recycling and the production of sustainable products. The company has also developed a multi-layer research trawl, allowing for simultaneous exploration of 11 water layers at a depth of five meters below sea level.
