Real estate investment company Pacific American Group has donated $1 million to the 4ocean Foundation, a nonprofit that employs some 200 captains and crews to remove plastic from the ocean. The organization said it has removed more than 35 million pounds of trash–17.5 tons–thus far.
4ocean said the donation will significantly boost its global ocean cleanup operations, while also inspiring broader participation in environmental stewardship across sectors.
“Over 400 million tons of plastic are produced annually, with 8 million tons entering the ocean,” said Jack Lighton, Executive Director at 4ocean Foundation. “This crisis demands immediate and sustained response. With Pacific American Group’s support, we can expand our cleanup efforts and mobilize communities worldwide.”
More than 10 million tons of plastic enter the ocean every year. Microplastics have been found in the organs of living things, including humans. They have also been discovered to hinder photosynthesis in plants–including the ocean plants that sequester huge amounts of carbon. Ocean cleanup organizations like 4ocean pull the plastic out of the ocean before it degrades into microplastics.
“Philanthropy alone isn’t enough—we need leadership and collective action to turn the tide on ocean pollution,” said Linda Hothem, CEO of Pacific American Group. “By bringing together some of the most influential minds in this space, we hoped to chart a path toward lasting impact that went far beyond this donation.”
