About POP
Advancing a World Free of Plastic Pollution.
About the Plastic Ocean Project
Plastic Ocean Project is a youth‑led 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Wilmington, North Carolina, dedicated to confronting the plastic‑pollution crisis through a blend of science, creativity, education, and community action. Their mission is to develop science‑based solutions to plastic pollution and to encourage individuals, businesses, and communities to make choices that safeguard both environmental and human health. At the heart of POP is the vision of “a world free of plastic pollution,” underpinned by core values such as inclusion, collaboration, transparency, scientific innovation, artistic creativity, and sustainability.
• Since its launch of the Trees4Trash program in 2019, POP has removed over 37,000 pounds of trash from natural areas.
• In conjunction with that trash‑removal, POP has planted over 2,000 trees — in line with their commitment to plant one tree for every 25 pounds removed.
Research
POP conducts research to understand the scale, sources, and impacts of plastic — especially microplastics — in oceans, waterways, sediment, and ecosystems. They use tools like micro‑FTIR, ATR, and solar simulators to analyze plastic particles, their composition, degradation, and ecological interactions. These efforts include educational components, with students gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteer sampling, and coursework, helping foster the next generation of environmental researchers.
Programs & Outreach
POP runs programs that turn scientific insight into real-world action. Their Ocean Friendly Establishments (OFE) program helps businesses reduce single-use plastics, while Trees4Trash links cleanups to ecological restoration by planting one tree for every 25 lbs of trash collected. POP also offers educational workshops, DIY sustainability activities, plastic-to-art projects, and community presentations to make science accessible. They further support grassroots action through local “POP clubs,” empowering volunteers to lead initiatives aligned with POP’s mission.
Events & Public Engagement
POP hosts events that blend advocacy, creativity, and community to promote ocean health and plastic‑pollution awareness. Signature events include the annual Trash’n Fash’n Show, where participants design outfits from recycled materials, and the For the Ocean Gala, a fundraising celebration of accomplishments. POP also runs the Ocean Advocacy Workshop (OAW), bringing together students, researchers, and activists to learn about ocean issues and become informed stewards. Through these events, POP channels science, art, and community action to drive meaningful change.