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INSPIRATIONS
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Join and
become an OceanLover
too!
Are you a photographer, poet, storyteller, diver, activist or scientist with a passion for the oceans?
Representing youth, academia, business, NGO, science and entrepreneurs our judges bring a unique blend of passion for sustainability and a commitment to positive change.
Join and
become an OceanLover
too!
Are you a photographer, poet, storyteller, diver, activist or scientist with a passion for the oceans?
Representing youth, academia, business, NGO, science and entrepreneurs our judges bring a unique blend of passion for sustainability and a commitment to positive change.
inspirational stories:
Some of yours inspirational stories.
william kamkwamba
When William was only 14 years old his village Masitala in Malawi was facing a great famine due to a drought. He badly wanted to study but unfortunately due to the crop failures his parents could not afford his school tuition and thus he continued to do self study. He found a book in the library called Using Energy which taught him what he needed to know about wind power. With the knowledge of this book and modifying this knowledge to fit his need, he built an electricity-producing windmill from spare parts and scrap. The first windmill he built powered four lights and two radios in his family home. This had already put him on the radar and made him one of the four recipients of the 2010 GO Ingenuity Award. This is a yearly award granted by the non-profit organization GO Campaign to inventors, artists, and entrepreneurs with difficult and underprivileged youth. After William won this award he was invited to attend TEDGlobal on a fellowship. Onstage, Kamkwamba talked about his invention and shared his dreams: to build a larger windmill to help with irrigation for his entire village, and to go back to school. He achieved his dream, saving his family and the entire village from starvation. Subsequent projects have included clean water, malaria prevention, solar power and lighting for the six homes in his family compound; a deep-water well with a solar-powered pump for clean water; and a drip irrigation system. Kamkwamba himself returned to school, and is now attending the African Leadership Academy, a new pan-African prep school outside Johannesburg, South Africa.
Scott Munguía, Biofase
Scott Munguía, a Mexican chemical technician, had a dream to tackle the world's plastic problem by finding a new way to create biodegradable plastics. His technology enables the production of bioplastics, using waste from the food industry, more specifically, the avocado seed. He was a 25 year old chemical technology student when he started testing which seeds would be the most successful for making bioplastics. After thorough research, he concluded that the avocado seed was the most suitable for his plans. By utilizing discarded avocado seeds, a byproduct from the food industry, the company not only reduces agricultural waste, but also provides a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. He continued to work on his idea for 1,5 years, perfecting his innovative idea. Currently Scott has started his own company called Biofase which has grown to 14 employees who produce roughly 130 tonne of avocado-plastics per month. From these bioplastics the company mainly manufactures straws and cutlery, also made from 100% reusable and sustainable sources. Biofase actively contributes to reforestation efforts, planting trees to offset their environmental impact. Biofase reflects the transformative power of innovation and determination, proving that even the avocado can provide seeds of positive change for our planet.
UNICEF, Plastic building blocks
In a groundbreaking initiative, UNICEF isspearheading a project that converts plastic waste into durable building blocks. This innovative approach not only tackles environmental issues associated with plastic, but also addresses the critical need for infrastructure in underserved communities. By repurposing discarded plastic, UNICEF is not only fostering sustainability, but also fostering positive change in communities worldwide. Charlene Kouame, a 27-year-old mother, works with UNICEF on this project. She sells her collected plastic to the new recycling factory in Youpougon, Ivory Coast just outside the city of Abidjan. Charlene is very pleased that she now has a reliable customer thanks to the construction of the new factory. "I started collecting plastic to clean up the environment inmy own community. There was plastic everywhere. Then it became my job. Now that we can ask for a fair price, it provides financial security for my family. I dream of becoming a businesswoman, buying plastic waste from other collectors."
Mojca Zupan, PlanetCareFounder & CEO
Mojca is PlanetCare's founder, CEO and the heartand soul of the company. Her passion for a cleaner environment doesn't let herstop for a minute. She used to be a corporate lawyer, but she changed her career after seeing a photoexhibition with her kids on marine litter. Being a mother of three, she seesthe responsibilities of leaving behind a sustainable world for futuregenerations. With this goal in mind, the PlanetCare filters were born.Since 2017 PlanetCare has developed its firstintegrated microfiber filter for washing machines, the first external add-onfilter, and its first commercial filter. The PlanetCare washing machine filteris the first and only solution that stops 90% of microfibers and takes care ofthe whole cycle for a completely closed loop. Each filter comes with reusable cartridges that you simply replace once they're full of microfibers and send them back to the company so they can be refurbished for future use. PlanetCare engages in educational initiatives, raising awareness about the impact of microfiber pollution and empowering individuals to make environmentally conscious choices.
Angad Daryani, Praan
Angad Daryani grew up in Mumbai, he suffered from Asthma and his inability to breathe only worsoned due to extreme airpollution. This fueled his ambition to tackle the problem and create asolution. Angad Daryani's innovation, "Praan," stands as a revolutionary solution in the battle against air pollution and represents the positive impact of innovation. Praan embodies a commitment to cleaner air and environmental responsibility. Driven by a passion for sustainability and technological innovation, Praan has become a symbol of hope and empowerment for communities facing air quality challenges. Beyond addressing the problem at hand, Praan fosters a sense of individual empowerment, encouraging users to take control of their immediate environment. Angad envisions a future where Praan becomes a household name, synonymous with a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Praan serves as an inspiration, urging society to embrace innovation for the greater good.
ReefSystems
In the heart of marine conservation efforts, ReefSystems stands as a beacon of hope and innovation. Founded by visionary oceanographer Dr. Isabella Rodriguez, the organization has become a driving force in restoring and protecting coral reefs worldwide. Dr. Rodriguez, fueled by a passion for the ocean and a commitment to environmental stewardship, established ReefSystems with the mission to reverse the decline of coral reefs and promote sustainable practices. The organization's journey began with small, dedicated teams of marine biologists and conservationists working tirelessly to understand the complex ecosystems of coral reefs. What sets ReefSystems apart is its groundbreaking approach to conservation. They've pioneered coral reef restoration techniques, developing artificial reefs that mimic the natural habitats crucial for marine life. These structures not only provide a lifeline for struggling ecosystems but also serve as platforms for ongoing research and education. Through community engagement and partnerships with local governments, ReefSystems has successfully implemented conservation initiatives across the globe. Their projects not only restore the health of coral reefs but also empower coastal communities to become stewards of their marine environment. As the organization continues to grow, Dr. Rodriguez envisions a future where coral reefs thrive, teeming with biodiversity and life. ReefSystems stands as a testament to the profound impact that dedicated individuals and innovative solutions can have on the preservation of our planet's most preciousecosystems, inspiring a wave of change for generations to come.
SEA Water
Founded by visionary entrepreneur Mia Pate, SEA Water is an organization that turns Ocean water into fresh drinking water. Mia's journeybegan with a commitment to tackle plastic pollution and provide a solution to the global water crisis. SEA Water uses desalination to turn seawater intopure, drinkable water, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles. The result is a crisp and sustainable canned drink that not only hydrates but also preserves our oceans. The company actively engages in coastal clean-up initiatives, fostering a sense of community and environmental stewardship. Mia envisions a future where SEA Water becomes synonymous with responsible hydration, inspiring a shift towards sustainable choices in the beverage industry. SEA Water is not just a drink; it's a commitment to a healthier planet. Mia Patel's visionary approach exemplifies how business innovation canbe a force for positive change towards a more sustainable world.
