Azimut Benetti, the renowned Italian yacht manufacturer, has announced a collaborative effort with environmental organization Ogyre to tackle ocean plastic pollution. This ambitious project aims to remove 18,000 pounds of plastic from the ocean by 2025 and to explore the possibility of establishing a marine waste hub in Tuscany.
The initiative will engage local fishing communities in Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia—three regions severely impacted by ocean pollution due to plastic waste from contaminated rivers. The partnership not only focuses on cleaning the oceans but also on conducting a feasibility study for a marine waste collection center that could serve as a model for sustainable waste management in coastal areas.
Azimut Benetti has been at the forefront of sustainable practices in the yacht industry. The company has previously implemented measures to reduce carbon emissions across its fleet. The proposed waste collection hub would ideally be situated between Livorno and Viareggio, leveraging these areas' existing maritime infrastructure and expertise in boatbuilding.
This global initiative underscores Azimut Benetti’s commitment to preserving marine environments. By concentrating efforts in Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia, the project addresses some of the most critically affected areas. The Mediterranean, in particular, suffers from high concentrations of plastic waste due to its semi-enclosed nature and the inflow from major rivers like the Arno, Tiber, and Sarno.
Ogyre will provide the necessary support to local fishers, including equipment, training, and financial incentives. This approach not only aids in cleaning the oceans but also enhances the economic well-being of those communities, promoting a sustainable livelihood that respects and protects the marine ecosystem.
Research indicates that the Mediterranean harbors microplastic levels that are four times greater than those found in the notorious Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This startling statistic highlights the urgency and significance of the Azimut Benetti and Ogyre partnership in combating marine pollution.
For more insights into this initiative and to learn more about Azimut Benetti’s sustainability endeavors, visit their official website at azimutbenetti.com. This collaboration is a pivotal step towards a cleaner marine environment, showcasing how corporate responsibility and innovative environmental strategies can align to address global challenges.