We are all tasked with protecting the ocean and all bodies of water – regardless of whether we live on the coast or further inland. Even plastic that is thrown away on inland riverbanks can eventually make its way into the sea. And the harm that this causes to animals and their food sources is a cross-border problem. Starting as “The Plastic Pirates – This is where the sea starts!” the collection campaigns took place for the first time in Germany in 2016 as part of the Science Year 2016*17 – Seas and Oceans. Now young people from many countries in Europe are taking part and form the Plastic Pirates – because avoiding plastic waste and researching the causes and relationships are tasks that we in Europe can best tackle together. We all – as citizens of Europe – are called upon to use our curiosity and our dedication to support scientists and researchers.
Have we managed to spark your curiosity?
If you and your class or youth group are interested in organising a pilot collection campaign, we will be happy to provide you with the necessary knowledge and materials to carry it out independently in your country.
We will gladly enter into dialogue with the responsible ministry for a nationwide participation of your country in the initiative (plastic-pirates@dlr.de). We will inform you about the next steps and the key conditions for participation.