Great Pacific Garbage Patch Facts

The Ocean Cleanup, a Dutch non-profit, has reached a milestone by removing 220 tons of floating debris from the Pacific Garbage Patch. This organization is the only one actively cleaning this area, using a 1.5-mile-long solar-powered barrier. The Pacific Garbage Patch, located between California and Hawaii, accumulates waste due to subtropical gyre currents. It contains various debris, including plastics and electronics, with an estimated 6 million tons of waste. Founder Bojan Slat aims to clear the patch in 10 years using new technology, though waste processing remains a challenge. Some recycled plastics are turned into sunglasses to fund further cleanup efforts.

What recent milestone did the Ocean Cleanup organization achieve?

• Partnered with the United Nations

• Expanded operations to the Atlantic Ocean

• Developed a new solar-powered system

• Collected 220 tons of floating garbage

What is the length of the floating barrier used by the Ocean Cleanup organization?

• 1.5 miles

• 2.5 miles

• 2 miles

• 1 mile

Where does the Great Pacific Garbage Patch extend from and to?

• From Hawaii to Japan

• From California to Alaska

• From California to Hawaii

• From Alaska to Japan

Approximately how much waste is estimated to be in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch?

• 6 million tons

• 10 million tons

• 3 million tons

• 1 million tons

What product does the Ocean Cleanup organization currently make from recycled plastic?

• Bags

• Shoes

• Sunglasses

• Water bottles