Operation Clean Waves

​Sea Shepherd’s Operation Clean Waves is a direct-action campaign dedicated to addressing ocean pollution, preserving reef health, and ensuring clean water in isolated island nations. Marine debris, particularly plastics, poses a monumental environmental threat, endangering marine life such as birds, sharks, turtles, and marine mammals through drowning, entanglement, or starvation following ingestion.

Marine debris encompasses any persistent, manufactured, or processed solid material discarded, disposed of, or abandoned in marine and coastal environments. This includes consumer items like glass or plastic bottles, cans, bags, balloons, rubber, metal, fiberglass, and cigarettes, as well as fishing gear such as lines, ropes, hooks, and buoys lost or intentionally discarded at sea. ​

In 2018, Sea Shepherd’s research vessel, the R/V Martin Sheen, embarked on a mission to the remote island nation of Kiribati to launch Operation Clean Waves. This campaign addressed plastic pollution, the health of tropical reefs, and clean water challenges. ​

Operation Clean Waves emphasizes community involvement and education. By collaborating with local citizens and other NGOs, Sea Shepherd developed plastic reduction and recycling programs on South Pacific islands like Kiribati. The program collects, sorts, and ships plastics from Fanning Island to Honolulu for proper recycling.

Individuals can support Operation Clean Waves by:

• Participating in Local Clean-Ups: Join beach or waterway clean-up events organized by Sea Shepherd groups worldwide. ​

• Supporting the Campaign: Contribute to Operation Clean Waves by making a donation to assist in removing marine debris from isolated islands and the high seas. ​

• Making Sustainable Choices: Use reusable items like bottles, mugs, and cloth shopping bags to reduce plastic waste. ​

Through Operation Clean Waves, Sea Shepherd continues its commitment to preserving marine ecosystems by tackling plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices.​