In this episode of Ocean Collaborations, Jan Maisenbacher speaks with Janne van Erten from Ocean Cleanup about the organization’s efforts to combat plastic pollution in the oceans. They discuss the significant impact of the Ocean Cleanup’s initiatives, including the 30 Cities Program aimed at reducing plastic flow from rivers into the ocean. This isn’t just about cleaning one river; it’s a strategic move to tackle the world’s most polluting waterways across Asia and the Americas. By focusing on entire urban ecosystems, the goal is to eliminate up to one-third of plastic flowing into our oceans by 2030. It was inspiring to hear how local partnerships and community education are making this massive scale-up possible.Janne emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the need for a circular economy as well as the implications of the upcoming plastic treaty. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in ocean collaboration and the innovative approaches being taken to address plastic pollution.

Turning the Tide:

The energy in this conversation was truly optimistic because, for the first time, we are seeing a real shift from single projects to systemic, city-wide solutions.

🚀 Why the 30 Cities Programme is a Game Changer:

* It shifts the focus from isolated river cleanups to integrated, city-wide waste management solutions.

* It relies on deep collaboration with local NGOs and universities to ensure long-term, sustainable impact.

* It creates measurable social and environmental benefits, like restoring mangroves and creating local jobs.

We also explored the vital link between circular economy collaboration and global policy. Janne highlighted that while technology is key, we need the “social technology” of collaboration to close the loop.

♻️ Building a Circular Future Together:

* We need governments to set the rules so that sustainable business models can finally compete with “business as usual.”

* Collaboration with industry leaders, like the partnership with Kia, shows how ocean plastic can become a valuable resource.

* Success depends on building the right infrastructure today so that we aren’t just cleaning up, but preventing waste entirely.

One of my favorite parts of the episode was discussing why we need new collaborative spaces. The ocean doesn’t have one “owner,” which often leads to fragmented efforts. We need safe, radical spaces where NGOs, governments, and businesses can drop their guards and work as one team. It is time to stop working in silos and start building a diverse ecosystem of change-makers who share the same urgent mission.

Takeaways

* Ocean Cleanup prevented almost 28 million tons of trash from reaching the ocean last year.

* The 30 Cities Program aims to eliminate one third of plastics flowing into the ocean by 2030.

* Collaboration with local communities is essential for effective cleanup efforts.

* The plastic treaty is vital for establishing regulations and responsibilities for plastic management.

* Innovative circular business models are necessary for sustainable plastic use.

* Measuring impact includes environmental, social, and economic outcomes.

* Collaboration with various stakeholders enhances the effectiveness of cleanup projects.

Connect with Janne van Eerten on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janne-van-eerten-3b843b119/

Press Release of 30 cities program (June 2025): https://theoceancleanup.com/updates/the-ocean-cleanup-launches-30-cities-program/

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