Sorting Litter in Terneuzen

CLEAR RIVERS' Litter Trap in the Gent-Terneuzen Canal is strategically located on the east side of the canal, taking advantage of prevailing wind patterns that cause debris to accumulate on that side for approximately 40 weeks per year. Our partner Heijmans diligently removes an average of 1 cubic meter of litter every two weeks, ensuring a cleaner waterway.

We have been monitoring and sorting what our Litter Trap collects. Take a look at the pictures below to get a glimpse of our sorting activity.

Among the most frequently discovered non-organic items are nurdles (plastic pellets) and hard plastic fragments. These findings emphasize the pressing need for action to protect our seas and oceans.

A heartfelt thanks to our sponsors and partners, whose support has made this impactful initiative possible! Coca-Cola Europacific Partners in the Netherlands, Heijmans & Rijkswaterstaat.

We want to invite new partners to join us in this vital mission and help us grow our impact for the well-being of people and the planet. Let's come together to protect our precious water bodies!

Project update: Ambon Plastic-Free

We are excited to share the latest progress on our Ambon plastic-free project. Thanks to the generous support of the AFAS Foundation, we have successfully installed three Litter Traps in Ambon, marking a significant step towards our goal. These Litter Traps will play a vital role in preventing waste from reaching Ambon Bay while simultaneously raising awareness about the urgent issue of plastic pollution.

Photo 1: one of CLEAR RIVERS Litter Traps in Ambon

Photo 2: Aerial view of the Litter Trap

In addition to the Litter Traps, CLEAR RIVERS actively engages with local organizations to organize regular clean-up activities, ensuring the continuous upkeep of a clean and sustainable environment. However, our commitment extends beyond cleanup efforts. We firmly believe that addressing plastic pollution requires a comprehensive approach that tackles prevention, encompassing education, awareness, and recycling.

Photo 3: Cleanup activity in Ambon

To involve future generations in solving this crisis, we have established an educational program in collaboration with local schools. Through this initiative, the CLEAR RIVERS team engages children in discussions about the consequences of plastic pollution and encourages their active participation in activities aimed at finding innovative solutions.

Photo 4, 5: CLEAR RIVERS Educational Program in Ambon

Moreover, we recognize that recycling and reusing plastics are crucial steps in preventing the collected waste from re-entering our ecosystems. In partnership with local and international allies, CLEAR RIVERS is actively working towards a circular economy that gives plastic a second life. This collaborative effort ensures that plastic waste is sustainably processed by local waste management companies, eliminating harmful practices such as dumping or burning.

Acknowledging the collective responsibility in combating plastic pollution, CLEAR RIVERS is actively collaborating with local communities and organizations to raise awareness about the urgency of the issue. In the words of our Founding Director, Ramon Knoester:

"Capturing plastic is just one part of the solution. By addressing the root causes through our education and awareness program, we strive to create lasting change. Within the next decade, our aim is to achieve a plastic-free Ambon."

We want to extend our gratitude to the AFAS Foundation, our invaluable financial supporter, who will be actively involved in the two-year initiative to make Ambon plastic-free. Gerben Eversdijk, Director of the AFAS Foundation, emphasizes the significance of addressing plastic pollution and the benefits it can bring to communities. Eversdijk highlights,

"The harmful effects of plastic litter on the environment are well-known to everyone. It is imperative that we take action. Through the implementation of Litter Traps and the educational program, we adopt a comprehensive approach that promotes community well-being, ensures a healthier environment, and benefits the local fishing industry. Furthermore, it contributes to the development of tourism and generates additional income for the local community. We are proud to support this impactful project. Our dream is to make the entire Ambon Bay plastic-free in collaboration with CLEAR RIVERS."

By working hand in hand with various partners and passionate individuals, we are making significant strides toward realizing a plastic-free Ambon. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all.

Introducing River Fashion: A Remarkable Collaboration in Sustainable Fashion and Recycling

We are delighted to announce the inspiring collaboration behind River Fashion! At CLEAR RIVERS, recycling is a core pillar, and we are thrilled about this project. River Fashion combines fibers from collected plastic with sustainable cotton, creating a beautiful blend. The buttons, made from 100% river plastic, add a unique touch.

Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to everyone involved in making this remarkable achievement in fashion and recycling possible: Hanneke Siebelink from Míramé', Saxion Hogeschool, AC Ter Kuile, Save Plastics, Agrofair, Polymer Science Park, and Veolia Nederland. Your dedication and expertise have truly made a difference.

Check out the pictures below for a glimpse of the innovative River Fashion line.