Did you know that there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050?
© IAN ROMAN/Volvo Ocean Race
That’s the grim prediction of one recent study* – and with so much at stake, the Volvo Ocean Race is partnering with United Nations Environment to draw attention to the growing problem of marine debris.
The partnership will see the Race use its storytelling platforms and global ambassadors to amplify the United Nations Environment’s #CleanSeas campaign – which aims to ‘Turn the Tide on Plastic’ pollution.
We are so excited that Volvo Ocean Race has joined this effort – together, we can turn the tide on plastic
Erik Solheim
The campaign launched in February at the Economist Ocean Summit in Bali, and aims to achieve a drastic reduction in the production and use of single-use plastic as well as a global ban on microbeads in personal care and cosmetic products.
“We launched the campaign to educate and spread awareness to the broader public audience, and really open people’s eyes to the grave threat our oceans are currently facing,” explained Lisa Svensson, Director for UN Environment’s Ocean and Marine Programmes.
© Ainhoa Sanchez/Volvo Ocean Race
“The Volvo Ocean Race brings passion and a meaningful, substantive perspective, on the health of the oceans. At UN Environment, we traditionally work with governments and member states, but joining forces with the Volvo Ocean Race gives us a partnership where we can reach beyond our typical constituency, and engage directly with the general public.”
Each Volvo Ocean 65 in the 2017-18 edition will carry the #CleanSeas slogan on its boom, and the Race will take the warning message to all 12 Host Cities on the route.
“Marine plastic pollution is a global problem that needs global solutions. Through the #CleanSeas campaign, UN Environment is bringing together countries, companies and citizens who are committed to protect our oceans. We are so excited that Volvo Ocean Race has joined this effort and hope that through this partnership we will see even more commitments. Together, we can turn the tide on plastic,” concluded Erik Solheim, Head of United Nations Environment.
*World Economic Forum report : The New Plastics Economy January 2016
