Boyan Slat is a Dutch entrepreneur and environmental advocate best known for founding The Ocean Cleanup, an organization committed to eliminating plastic pollution from the world’s oceans. His mission centers on developing innovative technologies designed to efficiently collect plastic debris, particularly from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
The Ocean Cleanup’s primary device uses a passive collection system that harnesses ocean currents to concentrate and trap floating plastic waste. Slat’s initiatives have led to the removal of over 39.6 million pounds of plastic (equivalent to over 18 million kilograms), contributing significantly to the goal of eliminating 90% of ocean plastic by 2040.
In 2024, The Ocean Cleanup celebrated its 100th extraction, highlighting the effectiveness of its latest technology, System 03. Slat’s work has earned him many accolades, including the United Nations Champions of the Earth award, solidifying his role as a key figure in the fight against ocean pollution.
