Clean Waves on the Road Expedition

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The problem of marine pollution and its influence on public health motivated Odontoprev, Sea Shepherd Brazil, and the Oceanographic Institute of USP to carry out this unprecedented expedition along the Brazilian coast, engaging universities, society, and volunteers to map waste, promote environmental education, and drive innovative public policies.

Environmental education and innovative public policies are driving coastal transformation.

Methodology

The expedition involved approximately 60 volunteers and visited 306 beaches, covering more than 11,000 km of the Brazilian coast by bus. The project had three stages: planning (defining routes, partners, and methodology), execution (waste collection, microplastic analysis, and community engagement), and dissemination (technical report, documentary, and presentations at events). It involved Odontoprev, Sea Shepherd Brazil, and the Oceanographic Institute of USP, in addition to volunteers and local communities, using academic and scientific methodologies and audiovisual recording.

The expedition covered 306 beaches and more than 11,000 km of the Brazilian coast.

Results

The expedition analyzed 306 beaches in 21 municipalities and revealed that 100% of Brazilian beaches contain waste. 72,000 macro-waste items were analyzed, including 91% of which were plastics, and 61% of these were single-use items. In total, 172 clean-up campaigns were carried out with local communities, collecting 2.5 tons of waste. 57 volunteers participated, and 39 recycling cooperatives were impacted. The biggest challenges were logistical and related to remote access. The scientific report will be distributed to universities and environmental agencies, promoting public policies, research, and educational initiatives.

72,000 large-scale waste items collected, 91% plastics, 61% single-use items.

Supporting Material

Ícone link externo Clean Waves on the Road Ícone link externo Waste on the Brazilian Coast
Infrastructure
AGRICULTURE ENERGY FOREST Industry LIVESTOCK