Bronx Teen Joins Plastic Ocean Project on Research Voyage to North Atlantic

Bronx Teen Joins Plastic Ocean Project on Research Voyage to North Atlantic Rocking the Boat Apprentice, Ethan Cruz Sets Sail on Microplastics Discovery Mission, April 2

WILMINGTON, NC- (March 25, 2024) – Plastic Ocean Project (POP), a nonprofit organization committed to addressing plastic pollution issues, has nominated 18-year-old Bronx-native Ethan Cruz to participate in a pioneering environmental study to collect microplastic samples in the North Atlantic Gyre near Bermuda. Cruz will depart on April 2 and embark on a 7-day voyage aboard the research vessel Atlantic Explorer joining a crew of 5 other researchers including POP’s founder Bonnie Monteleone. The goal of this expedition is to quantify the distribution of microplastics in the North Atlantic Subtropical gyre and provide the next generation with firsthand experience observing the extent of plastic pollution, aiming to promote essential changes to address it.

Cruz’s participation will contribute to his own research as he compares the findings from the North Atlantic with those he observed in the Bronx River, furthering the understanding of plastic particle distribution in freshwater and ocean water. Cruz will also be assisting in the Oceanic FLUX Project, one of the longest running open-ocean research projects conducted by Rut Pedrosa, PhD.

Cruz, who serves as a Global Ambassador for the Plastic Ocean Project, has been lauded for his commitment and activism in environmental causes. Additionally, Cruz is an apprentice enrolled in the environmental science program at Rocking the Boat, a nonprofit organization based in Bronx, New York, dedicated to providing hands-on experiences in boat building, environmental science, and maritime education.

“Growing up in the Bronx, I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to contribute to such groundbreaking environmental research,” said Ethan Cruz. “Being nominated for this pioneering study feels surreal, but it’s a proof of the power of youth activism and the importance of hands-on education. Through programs like Plastic Ocean Project and Rocking the Boat, I’ve learned the value of taking action and making a difference in our environment. I’m grateful for this experience and eager to see how my findings will impact future conservation efforts.”

“Ethan’s commitment to environmental stewardship and his exemplary research skills make him an invaluable asset to our team,” said Bonnie Monteleone, Founder, Plastic Ocean Project. “As our youngest ocean team explorer, we are thrilled to support him in expanding his knowledge base and making a meaningful impact in the field of environmental science.”

As the principal investigator of the water quality project, Cruz has been focusing on investigating pollution resulting from combined sewage overflow (CSO) at multiple locations along the Bronx River. His research has included weekly sampling of the river to test for enterococcus levels and other water quality parameters. Cruz is particularly interested in investigating a suspected leak at one of the sites, which discharges raw sewage even in the absence of rain events.

In addition to his water quality project, Cruz is involved in various other initiatives, including monitoring air quality, shorebirds, urban coyotes, and microplastics. He also contributes to the seaweed farm at the mouth of the Bronx River and participates in wetland restoration projects along the riverbank.

“We are incredibly proud of Ethan and his work as an environmental apprentice. Aside from his clear commitment to protecting the environment, Ethan is one of the hardest working people I know,” said                               Lily Mleczko, Director of Environmental Science and Justice. “He is the first to pull in a seaweed line or heave a heavy bucket when needed, and he is always eager to learn and master a new skill. We know he will excel on the expedition and are so excited that he gets to experience this whole new world of opportunity. We can’t wait to hear the stories and lessons from the sea that he will inevitably bring back and share with his fellow apprentices and our younger students upon his return.”

Monteleone is a seasoned advocate for environmental causes, having traversed nearly 10,000 nautical miles across four of the five global oceanic gyres over three years to investigate plastic pollution. Armed with her firsthand experiences of a plastic ocean and her captivating artwork, she has embarked on a global journey to educate individuals about the dangers of marine debris. Over the past decade, Bonnie’s efforts have inspired thousands of people worldwide to join the fight against plastic pollution and make a positive impact on our oceans.

About Plastic Ocean Project
Plastic Ocean Project is a 501(c)3 non-profit based out of Wilmington, North Carolina. Its mission is to attain science-based solutions to the plastic pollution crisis that inspire all to make informed choices to improve human and environmental health.

About ‘Rocking the Boat’
‘Rocking the Boat’ is a nonprofit organization in [City, State] dedicated to empowering young people through hands-on experiences in boat building, environmental science, and maritime education. Since [Year of Establishment], ‘Rocking the Boat’ has provided transformative opportunities for youth to develop leadership skills, foster environmental stewardship, and pursue academic and career success.