The EIA identified potential impacts on marine life, birds, vessels, and protected areas. Although conducted voluntarily, the assessment adheres to the 1999 International Association for Impact Assessment Principles of Environmental Impact Assessment Best Practices. The findings indicate that 29 impact factors were considered, with all but one categorized as “Low” or “Negligible” risks, even before mitigation measures. The single “Medium” risk involved the potential attraction of sea turtles to the cleanup system or ingestion of plastics due to their concentration near the floating screen.
Mitigation measures have been defined for all identified impacts, and The Ocean Cleanup plans extensive on-site monitoring during the first year of deployment to ensure the system’s environmental safety. Despite not being legally required, this EIA follows significant engagement with regulators, experts, and stakeholders, demonstrating The Ocean Cleanup’s commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility.
The organization also encourages public engagement, inviting questions and comments via email and offering regular updates through their newsletter.
SOURCE: theoceancleanup