Maritimo Recycling

Beach and seabed pollution—especially plastic waste—remains a pressing challenge. A key issue is the lack of education around plastic recycling, particularly among younger generations. Many people are unaware of the potential in waste, such as transforming discarded plastic into useful products.

Creative recycling lies at the heart of this initiative. By collecting, sorting, and processing marine plastic into items like sunglasses, the team demonstrates how small-scale, locally accessible technologies can empower communities. The accompanying webshop raises ecological awareness and supports inclusion through a sustainable business model.

A dedicated team of eight people powers the project: four full-time, two part-time, and two employees from a probation office. Operating from the sea plastic recycling center, they innovate, educate through workshops, and partner with communities and stakeholders to broaden the project’s reach and effectiveness.

Simple yet scalable technologies make it possible for local communities to recycle independently. By avoiding reliance on large industrial systems, this approach fosters grassroots solutions. Workshops and public engagement activities play a crucial role in spreading awareness—especially among young people—about plastic waste and its potential.

What sets the project apart is its ability to motivate others. Communities, organizations, and individuals are inspired to replicate the approach using the openly shared knowledge and tools. By supporting localized adaptation, the initiative sparks a growing movement of practical, community-based responses to plastic pollution.