SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Jan. 17, 2025 – Azimut|Benetti Group, the world’s leading motor yacht manufacturer, has partnered with Ogyre, an innovative platform tackling ocean plastic pollution, in a significant move to protect our oceans. This collaboration marks a new era in marine conservation, combining the resources of a global industry leader with a pioneering approach to waste recovery.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Ocean Cleanup
This partnership is built on a multi-pronged strategy to address the growing crisis of plastic pollution in our oceans:
- Direct Action: The initiative will see 18,000 pounds of plastic removed from the ocean in 2025. This will be achieved by empowering local fishing communities in Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia to participate in "Fishing for Litter" activities, providing them with the necessary tools, training, and financial incentives.
- Expanding Infrastructure: A feasibility study will be launched to explore the establishment of a new marine waste collection hub in Tuscany, a region of strategic importance to Azimut|Benetti Group. This hub will further engage local fishermen, create sustainable employment opportunities, and strengthen the company's connection to the region.
Why Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia?
These three countries were selected for their symbolic relationship between humans and the marine ecosystem, and because they face unique challenges related to plastic pollution. Italy's coast borders the Mediterranean Sea, a semi-enclosed body of water particularly vulnerable to plastic accumulation. Brazil and Indonesia are grappling with heavily polluted rivers that carry vast amounts of plastic waste into the ocean, severely impacting marine life.
Empowering Fishermen as Agents of Change
Ogyre's unique model places fishermen at the heart of its efforts. By providing them with the resources and support to collect plastic waste alongside their regular fishing activities, Ogyre not only cleans up the ocean but also creates social benefits and economic opportunities for coastal communities.
Traceability and Transparency through Blockchain Technology
Ogyre utilizes blockchain technology to ensure complete traceability of the collected plastic waste. This ensures transparency and accountability throughout the process, from collection to recycling, fostering a circular and sustainable system.
A New Hub for Marine Waste Collection in Tuscany
The planned marine waste collection hub in Tuscany represents a significant step forward. Located between Livorno and Viareggio, it will actively involve local fishermen, generate sustainable economic opportunities, and contribute to the conservation of the Mediterranean Sea, a body of water facing a severe plastic pollution crisis.
Addressing a Critical Situation in the Mediterranean
According to a 2018 WWF report, the Mediterranean Sea has a microplastic density four times higher than that of the infamous "Great Pacific Garbage Patch." Plastic accounts for a staggering 95% of the waste found in the Mediterranean, both on the coastlines and in the open sea. The Tuscan coast is particularly vulnerable due to converging sea currents and the influx of plastic waste from major rivers like the Arno, Tiber, and Sarno.
Contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG1 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals2
Leadership Perspectives
Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of Azimut|Benetti Group, emphasized the company's long-standing dedication to environmental sustainability:
"For over twenty years, the Group’s commitment to greater environmental sustainability has been concrete, measurable and driven by the desire to adopt innovative solutions to make a difference 'here and now'. Ogyre has chosen the same approach. Through this partnership, we can expand our contribution, extending it from the construction of low-emission yachts to the removal of plastic waste from the seas.”
Antonio Augeri, Co-Founder and CEO of Ogyre, highlighted the collaborative nature of their approach:
“Ogyre was born with the mission of reducing marine pollution in collaboration with those who live at sea every day. The partnership with Azimut|Benetti Group allows us to expand our impact and demonstrate how the dialogue between technology, local communities and companies can really make a difference.”
Conclusion
The partnership between Azimut|Benetti Group and Ogyre marks a pivotal moment in the fight against ocean plastic pollution. By combining their expertise and resources, these two organizations are demonstrating the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change and protect our planet's precious marine ecosystems.