--- title: 4ocean Charitable Foundation --- [Skip to content](https://4oceanfoundation.org/about#main-content) [![Copy of 4O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1)](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Copy%20of%204O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1).png?width=6758&height=2291&name=Copy%20of%204O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1).png) ![Copy of 4O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1)](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Copy%20of%204O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1).png?width=6758&height=2291&name=Copy%20of%204O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1).png)](https://4oceanfoundation.org/4ocean-charatible-foundation) - [OUR MISSION](https://4oceanfoundation.org/mission) - [OUR IMPACT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/our-impact) - [ABOUT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/about) Show submenu for ABOUT - [Impact Partners](https://4oceanfoundation.org/impact-partners) - [CONTACT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/contact) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [OUR MISSION](https://4oceanfoundation.org/mission) - [OUR IMPACT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/our-impact) - [ABOUT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/about) Show submenu for ABOUT - [Impact Partners](https://4oceanfoundation.org/impact-partners) - [CONTACT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/contact) - [DONATE NOW](https://4oceanfoundation.org/donate) Open search Close search [DONATE NOW](https://4oceanfoundation.org/donate) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. # ABOUT US Founded by ocean advocates, powered by world-class executive and board leadership ## **Meet The Team** ![jack](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/jack.webp?width=200&height=200&name=jack.webp "jack") ### Jack Lighton Executive Director A self-described thalassophile, Jack’s fascination with the ocean and marine life began at an early age - and has shaped his life’s work in ocean conservation. As Executive Director, Jack partners with the Board, donors, foundations, and corporations to advance the Foundation’s mission and significantly scale its impact on ocean-bound plastic pollution. His goal: to transform how the Foundation drives measurable change for our planet’s most important environmental resource - the ocean. Previously, Jack served as CEO of SeaLegacy, leading global marine protection efforts through award-winning advocacy campaigns. He also spent nearly a decade as President & CEO of Loggerhead Marinelife Center, where he helped elevate the organization into one of Florida’s premier ocean conservation institutions. Earlier in his career, Jack held leadership roles in global management consulting with Harris Interactive–Nielsen and J.D. Power & Associates, guiding international teams across North America, Europe, and Asia. Jack is based in Palm Beach County, Florida, and serves on several nonprofit boards including Discover The Palm Beaches (Executive Committee) and Friends of Manatee Lagoon (Founding Board Member). Outside of work, he’s an animal rescue advocate who enjoys exploring the U.S. in his family’s motor coach - affectionately named Karl. Read more ![Christina](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Christina.png?width=179&height=195&name=Christina.png "Christina") ### Christina Wang Chief Operating and People Officer [mailto:christina.wang@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:christina.wang@4oceanfoundation.org)[mailto:christina.wang@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:christina.wang@4oceanfoundation.org) Although her career did not follow her initial love of marine biology, Christina nevertheless found herself in a joyful career of supporting people and organizations that focus on caretaking the world that we live in. A professional with over 20 years of experience in startups and non-profits, Christina has worked in a variety of roles, as head of people, finance, and operations. Additionally, she works as an executive and leadership coach to founders and c-suite teams, bringing extensive people development expertise to growing organizations. As the Director of Elevation Pillar for Peak Advisory Consulting, Christina co-creates growth-oriented, people-centered workplaces with her clients in the technology, healthcare, consumer products, hospitality and education sectors. She serves on the Board of Advisors for the Boston Ballet, an internationally acclaimed dance and education institution. Christina holds a Master's in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Economics from Wellesley College. She is based in Boston, MA and delights in international travel, cooking, and playing with her pup. Read more ![Craig@2x](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Craig@2x.png?width=179&height=195&name=Craig@2x.png "Craig@2x") ### [Craig Stewart Chief Financial Officer](https://www.linkedin.com/in/melindagrenz/)[mailto:craig.stewart@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:craig.stewart@4oceanfoundation.org) An accomplished accounting and finance professional with 25 years of experience in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and regulatory compliance. Skilled at analyzing complex financial data to drive strategic decision-making and enhance operational efficiency. Proven ability to manage end-to-end accounting processes, including general ledger management, cost analysis, tax planning, and audit coordination. Adept at working in both corporate and nonprofit environments, with a strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and regulatory requirements, and providing strategic insights to executive leadership. Highlights include: Expertise in managing general ledger integrity, consolidations, and financial statement preparation. Knowledgeable in Treasury management, fixed income accounting (including U.S. Treasuries, T-Bills, and corporate bonds), and investment rollforward schedules. Strong background in internal controls, process improvement, and financial systems implementation (e.g., ERP, accounting software). Effective communicator, able to translate financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders. Collaborative leader with a track record of mentoring teams and supporting cross-functional initiatives. Technical skills: Advanced Excel, financial modeling, QuickBooks, Deltek Costpoint Read more ![melinda](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/melinda.webp?width=200&height=200&name=melinda.webp "melinda") ### Melinda Grenz Associate Director of Development Melinda is the Associate Director of Development at 4ocean Foundation, where she leads philanthropic partnerships and communication initiatives that advance the organization’s mission to end plastic pollution. Born and raised in South Florida, Melinda developed an early and lasting connection to the ocean, shaping both her career and personal commitment to environmental conservation. A graduate of the University of Central Florida, she brings more than 15 years of experience across science education and communication, nonprofit advancement, and program development at leading science centers, aquariums, and global conservation organizations. Her work centers on building and scaling impactful programs, advancing strategic fundraising initiatives, and developing cross-sector partnerships that align diverse stakeholders around shared goals. At 4ocean Foundation, Melinda focuses on growing a global community of supporters while strengthening direct impact in the Indo-Pacific and South Florida, home to the Foundation’s headquarters. She is a Leadership West Palm Beach graduate, an active community advocate, and a proud mother of two who inspire her commitment to a healthier ocean for future generations. Read more ![Bryan](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Bryan.png?width=178&height=195&name=Bryan.png "Bryan") ### Bryan Kowalsky Creative Producer & Project Manager [mailto:bryan.kowalsky@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:bryan.kowalsky@4oceanfoundation.org)[mailto:bryan.kowalsky@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:bryan.kowalsky@4oceanfoundation.org) A passionate storyteller, Bryan is dedicated to creating content that inspires, engages, and leaves a lasting impression on audiences. At 4ocean Foundation, Bryan is energized to continue applying his skills in creative production to work that amplifies solutions for the ocean. Bryan collaborates with the crews in the field to document the cleanup process and develops innovative concepts for showcasing these efforts to diverse audiences. Tailoring this storytelling to ensure engagement and resonance across various platforms is Bryan’s mission for impacting audiences and driving change. Growing up in Ontario, Canada Bryan spent his youth roping his friends into participating in his short films and music videos. After completing his BA in Communications and Visual Media from the University of Toronto and Sheridan College, he spent 15 years in the narrative film space in Toronto. Bryan’s previous role as creative producer and film editor at SeaLegacy brought him into the conservation space and aligned his personal mission with his creative work. As one of the fortunate creatives whose hobbies became a career, you can find Bryan working on personal video and photography projects in his spare time. He and his wife are passionate creators with a plant-based food blog who aim to inspire small actionable changes that can impact our climate for the better. Read more ![Chad](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Chad.png?width=178&height=195&name=Chad.png "Chad") ### Chad Glendenin Chief Technology Advisor [mailto:chad.glendenin@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:chad.glendenin@4oceanfoundation.org)[mailto:chad.glendenin@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:chad.glendenin@4oceanfoundation.org) An experienced technologist, Chad has worked in industries such as finance, ed-tech, and healthcare, and in roles spanning software engineering, project management, cybersecurity, and cloud systems. He dabbled in physical oceanography and simulating the ocean circulation while in graduate school but discovered that he was better suited to the technology side. Chad received his bachelors degree from Yale and his masters degree from the University of Chicago and currently lives near Dallas, Texas with his wife and an English bulldog named Petunia. Read more ## **Board of Directors** ![Alex Schulze - Board of Directors](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/alex%20(1).webp?width=150&height=150&name=alex%20(1).webp "Alex Schulze - Board of Directors") Alex Schulze Alex Schulze is the CEO and Co-Founder of 4ocean. With a business background and a strong dedication to sustainability, Alex has focused his career on innovative solutions to the ocean plastic crisis. Under his leadership, 4ocean not only removes plastic and trash from our ocean and coastlines but also educates and engages individuals, communities, and businesses about plastic pollution, empowering them to make a difference. The company has become a recognized brand in ocean conservation and sustainability, collaborating with various organizations and businesses worldwide. Outside of his work, Alex enjoys surfing, diving, and spending time with his family. He is also a frequent speaker on ocean conservation and the importance of using business as a force for good. Read more ![Mark Pathy - Board of Directors](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/mark.webp?width=150&height=150&name=mark.webp "Mark Pathy - Board of Directors") Mark Pathy Mark Pathy is an accomplished business leader who currently holds the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman at Mavrik, an investment firm based in Montreal. Mavrik Corp is renowned for its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and responsible investing. Additionally, Pathy serves as the Chairman of the Board at Stingray Group Inc., a publicly-traded company that specializes in music, media, and technology and is headquartered in Montreal. Before founding Mavrik, Pathy served as the President and CEO of Fednav International Ltd., a prominent international dry bulk shipping company. He also held the role of co-CEO at Fednav Limited, the parent company of Fednav International Ltd., and continues to contribute as a member of the group's Board of Directors. Pathy's educational background includes an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Toronto in 1993 and a Master's in Business Administration from INSEAD in 1998. In addition to his successful business career, Pathy is dedicated to philanthropy. He serves on the Board of the Pathy Family Foundation and plays an active role in the Montreal Children's Hospital Foundation, where he serves on the Board and Executive Committee. Furthermore, he is the Chairman of the Board for Dans la Rue, an organization that provides support to at-risk and homeless youth in Montreal, Canada. Pathy achieved a notable milestone as the second Canadian civilian and the 11th Canadian overall to travel into orbit. He embarked on this extraordinary journey as a private astronaut on Axiom Space's Ax-1 mission to the International Space Station in April 2022. During his time in space, Pathy conducted health science research, technology demonstrations, environmental impact observations, and engaged in educational outreach, showcasing his dedication to exploration and knowledge advancement. Read more ![Shawn Zabartany - Board of Directors](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/shawn.webp?width=150&height=150&name=shawn.webp "Shawn Zabartany - Board of Directors") Shawn Zarbatany Shawn Zarbatany is a hospitality entrepreneur and seasoned developer with a passion for creating world-class resort and culinary experiences. As President and CEO of Zardev Inc., he has led the transformation of Quebec’s iconic Estérel Resort through over $150 million in redevelopment, earning top honors from Tourism Quebec and Wine Spectator. He previously launched and sold Kurban Tour and Travel USA, a destination management company based in Miami. Educated at the renowned Lausanne Hotel School and Lassalle College, Shawn is also an avid pilot, boater, and wine enthusiast. He serves on the boards of the Neuro Efficiency Foundation and 4ocean Foundation, and is a former Director of Make-A-Wish Quebec. Read more ## A Global Crisis Requires Global Solutions **4ocean Foundation** was established as a separate entity from the 4ocean Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), our for-profit counterpart. This strategic move was made to expand our impact on ocean conservation by accessing diverse streams of capital and resources. Our foundation focuses exclusively on **partnering with captains and crews to clean plastic and trash from our ocean** and **creating educational campaigns that expand awareness.** By operating as a registered 501(c)(3) organization, we ensure that all contributions are 100% tax deductible, directly funding our mission to clean and preserve the marine environment. Though 4ocean Foundation and 4ocean PBC are separately managed organizations, each share a common bond and vision to accelerate the cleanup of plastic pollution. [DONATE TODAY](https://4oceanfoundation.org/donate) [![4ocean logo](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20logo.webp?width=300&height=82&name=4ocean%20logo.webp "4ocean logo")](http:///) **Charitable Foundation** Board of Directors **Funding** Grants Donations Philantrophy **100% Invested** **Public Benefit Company** Executive Leadership **Funding** Products Partnerships **Global Ocean Cleanup** ![4ocean trash removed icon white](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20trash%20removed%20icon%20white.webp?width=100&height=79&name=4ocean%20trash%20removed%20icon%20white.webp "4ocean trash removed icon white") **Ocean Cleanups**   ![4ocean trash removed icon white](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20trash%20removed%20icon%20white.webp?width=100&height=79&name=4ocean%20trash%20removed%20icon%20white.webp "4ocean trash removed icon white") **Awareness**   ![4ocean trash removed icon white](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20trash%20removed%20icon%20white.webp?width=100&height=79&name=4ocean%20trash%20removed%20icon%20white.webp "4ocean trash removed icon white") **Restored Ecosystems**   ### Just how much is 41 million lbs of trash? ## **1,970,000,000 Water Bottles** ### You could cover Central Park 7.5x [HELP MAKE IT 10X](https://4oceanfoundation.org/donate) ![4ocean foundation central park](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation%20central%20park.webp?width=500&height=464&name=4ocean%20foundation%20central%20park.webp "4ocean foundation central park") ![blended](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/blended.png?width=800&height=524&name=blended.png "blended") ## Recent Cleanups - ![4ocean foundation-bali-1](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-bali-1.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-bali-1.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-bali-2](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-bali-2.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-bali-2.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-bali-3](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-bali-3.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-bali-3.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-guatamala-1](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-1.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-1.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-guatamala-2](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-2.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-2.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-guatamala-3](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-3.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-3.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-guatamala-5](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-5.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-guatamala-5.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-osbourne reef-1](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-osbourne%20reef-1.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-osbourne%20reef-1.webp) - ![4ocean foundation-osbourne reef-2](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation-osbourne%20reef-2.webp?width=1000&height=1000&name=4ocean%20foundation-osbourne%20reef-2.webp) ## Tiny Plastics. Massive Danger.  Every minute, microplastics flood our oceans, silently infiltrating the bodies of marine life, poisoning ecosystems, and even making their way into our food and water. What we can't see is hurting everything we love about the ocean. The time to act isn’t tomorrow. It’s now. [DONATE TODAY](https://4oceanfoundation.org/donate) ![4ocean foundation baby sea turtle](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hubfs/4ocean%20foundation%20baby%20sea%20turtle.webp "4ocean foundation baby sea turtle") ## Your Support Makes A Difference Together, we can create a world free from ocean plastic. Pounds Dollars 10lbs 25lbs 50lbs Donate Monthly One-time Donation [DONATE TODAY](https://4oceanfoundation.org/donate) 4ocean Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. (EIN 88-2694307) Donations and contributions are tax-deductable as allowed by law. For more payment information click **HERE**   ## **Our Work** - Expand Existing Cleanup Markets - Create New Cleanup Markets - Create and Distribute Educational Campaigns ## Expand Existing Cleanup Markets 4ocean Foundation is on a mission to end the ocean plastic crisis by removing plastic waste directly from the world’s ocean, rivers, and coastlines. Through hands-on cleanups, sustainable partnerships, and global outreach, we work every day to restore the health of our blue planet and protect the ecosystems that depend on it.   ##### **[SEE SOME OF OUR PROGRESS >](https://4oceanfoundation.org/4ocean-charatible-foundation-0)** ![4ocean team removing plastic from the ocean](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hubfs/end%20ocean%20plastic%20crisis.webp) ## Create New Cleanup Markets Plastic pollution and microplastics are one of the greatest health threats facing our ocean and every living being on our planet. At 4ocean Foundation, we are committed to raising awareness about the devastating impacts plastics have on marine life, coastal communities, and global food systems. By sharing science-based knowledge and real-world stories, we’re helping people understand the urgency of the crisis - and what’s at stake if we don’t act. This story can have a happier ending - we are a proven ocean cleanup team - join us today, help fuel a healthier future for everyone. ##### **[SEE SOME OF OUR PROGRESS >](https://4oceanfoundation.org/4ocean-charatible-foundation-0)** ![educate](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hubfs/educate.webp) ## Create and Distribute Educational Campaigns 4ocean Foundation strives to raise global awareness about the urgent threat of ocean plastic pollution. By sharing educational materials, 4ocean Foundation highlights the critical need for immediate human intervention to protect marine ecosystems and human health. Our campaigns inspire collective action and sustainable practices to prevent plastic pollution from becoming an irreversible crisis.​   ##### **[SEE SOME OF OUR PROGRESS >](https://4oceanfoundation.org/4ocean-charatible-foundation-0)** ![Untitled design (3)](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Untitled%20design%20(3).png?width=2000&name=Untitled%20design%20(3).png) ## A Global Crisis Requires Global Solutions 4ocean Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We ensure that all contributions are 100% tax deductible, directly funding our mission to clean and preserve the marine environment. Our Foundation focuses exclusively on partnering with local captains and crews to clean plastic and trash from our ocean and creating educational campaigns that expand awareness. 4ocean Foundation was established as a separate entity from the 4ocean Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), our for-profit counterpart. This strategic move was made to expand our impact on ocean conservation by accessing diverse streams of capital and philanthropy. ## **Our Commitment to Global Goals** At 4ocean Foundation, we proudly align our mission with the [United Nations Sustainable Development Goals -](https://www.globalgoals.org/)specifically SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, **SDG 13: Climate Action,** and **SDG 14: Life Below Water**. Through large-scale cleanup operations, education, and advocacy, we are actively working to mitigate the devastating impact of plastic pollution. Together, we're building a cleaner, more sustainable future for our planet. [![E_SDG goals_icons-individual-rgb-12](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/E_SDG%20goals_icons-individual-rgb-12.png?width=275&height=275&name=E_SDG%20goals_icons-individual-rgb-12.png "E_SDG goals_icons-individual-rgb-12")](https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/12-responsible-consumption-and-production/) Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. [Learn More](https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/12-responsible-consumption-and-production/) [![E_SDG goals_icons-individual-rgb-13](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/E_SDG%20goals_icons-individual-rgb-13.png?width=275&height=275&name=E_SDG%20goals_icons-individual-rgb-13.png "E_SDG goals_icons-individual-rgb-13")](https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/13-climate-action/) Take Urgent Action to Combat Climate Change and its Impacts [Learn More](https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/13-climate-action/) [![E_SDG goals_icons-individual-rgb-14](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/E_SDG%20goals_icons-individual-rgb-14.png?width=275&height=275&name=E_SDG%20goals_icons-individual-rgb-14.png "E_SDG goals_icons-individual-rgb-14")](https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/14-life-below-water/) Conserve and sustainably use the ocean, sea and marine resources for sustainable development. [Learn More](https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/14-life-below-water/) ## **Financial Transparency** We are proud to be independently audited on an annual basis by [BDO](https://www.bdo.com/), an internationally recognized global audit firm.  In partnership with BDO, 4ocean Foundation ensures transparency, accountability, and the highest standards of financial stewardship. ## Frequently Asked Questions Understanding the Mission, the Model, and How You Can Get Involved ### ABOUT 4OCEAN ### What is 4ocean? 4ocean is a mission-driven organization made up of two distinct but aligned entities: - **4ocean PBC** (Public Benefit, Certified B-Corporation): A for-profit company that funds ocean cleanup through product sales and corporate partnerships. - **4ocean Charitable Foundation**: A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that funds ocean cleanup and educational campaigns through donor-funded programs, and philanthropic support. Together, these two entities work in tandem to tackle the global ocean plastic crisis. ### WHAT 4OCEAN FOUNDATION DOES ### What is 4ocean Foundation? 4ocean Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to scale the impact of 4ocean’s mission through philanthropic support. It exists to unlock new streams of funding that cannot be accessed through product sales alone. ### What kind of work does the Foundation fund? - Expanding cleanup operations in existing and new high-impact zones - Supporting local communities impacted by plastic pollution - Launching education, advocacy, and outreach initiatives ### WHAT 4OCEAN PUBLIC BENEFIT CORPORATION (PBC) DOES ### What is 4ocean PBC? 4ocean PBC is a for-profit public benefit and certified B corporation. It operates as a self-sustaining business that funds cleanup operations through corporate partnerships and the sale of products - like bracelets, apparel, and sustainable alternatives /reusable gear. ### How does it fund cleanup? Every item sold helps fund the direct removal of plastic and trash from the ocean, rivers, and coastlines. For example, each 4ocean bracelet sold pulls one pound of trash from marine environments. How can businesses or consumers support 4ocean PBC? - Purchase 4ocean products online or through retail partners - Businesses can launch co-branded merchandise or campaigns that raise awareness - Promote conscious consumerism and share the mission with others   ### OCEAN PLASTIC & CLEANUP ### What is Ocean Plastic? Ocean plastic includes any plastic waste that has entered the ocean or is on the verge of entering it - especially waste found in rivers, coastal environments, and mangrove ecosystems. ### Ocean vs. Oceans: What’s the Difference? In the conservation sector, scientists and environmental leaders use “Ocean” in the singular because all the world’s waters are connected, forming one global ocean system. This reflects the scientific reality that protecting one region ultimately benefits the entire ocean. ### Why collect plastic on land? An estimated 80% of ocean plastic starts on land. Intercepting it before it reaches the water is one of the most effective ways to stop the crisis at its source. ### Where does 4ocean Foundation operate cleanups? Our largest operations are in Indonesia - specifically Bali - where plastic outflow is among the highest in the world. Some U.S.-based strike missions and local cleanups are also coordinated through Foundation-led initiatives. ### How is the plastic sorted and recycled? Collected waste is separated into recyclables and non-recyclables: - **Recyclables:** PET, HDPE, LDPE, PP - **Non-recyclables:** Mixed, composite, and PVC plastics used for energy recovery through thermal recycling partners like Indocement ### What happens to plastic that can’t be recycled? Materials that cannot be reused are converted into energy with proper environmental oversight and recovery certificates to ensure traceability and accountability.   ### GET INVOLVED ### How can I support the mission? **For donors and community collaborators (Foundation):** - Make a [tax-deductible donation](https://www.4oceanfoundation.org/donate) - Fund a cleanup zone or education program - Corporate CSR (Non-marketing Philanthropic Initiatives) - Introduce us to a grantmaker or family foundation **For consumers and businesses (PBC):** - Visit [4ocean.com](http://4ocean.com/) to learn more about products and how to support the mission - Corporate Partnership Program (Marketing Initiatives) - Spread awareness through social media Email development@4oceanfoundation.org to discuss giving opportunities ### Contacts **Donations and philanthropy:** Please reach [Development@4oceanfoundation.org](mailto:Development@4oceanfoundation.org)  *Please note: 4ocean Foundation operates as a separate organization and does not manage or participate in 4ocean product sales or B2B partnerships. For inquiries related to those areas, please use the contact information provided below.*   **4ocean Product or order inquiries:** Please [Click here](https://www.4ocean.com/pages/contact-4ocean)   **4ocean Corporate Partnerships:** Please reach [Partnerships@4ocean.com ](mailto:Partnerships@4ocean.com) [![Copy of 4O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1)](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Copy%20of%204O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1).png?width=6758&height=2291&name=Copy%20of%204O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1).png "Copy of 4O_Foundation_Logo_Stacked_White(1)")](https://4oceanfoundation.com) Stay connected with our latest initiatives by following, liking, and sharing our journey on social media. Every click helps amplify our unified mission to protect and restore our ocean - thank you for being part of the movement! - [OUR MISSION](https://4oceanfoundation.org/mission) - [OUR IMPACT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/our-impact) - [ABOUT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/about) - [Impact Partners](https://4oceanfoundation.org/impact-partners) - [CONTACT](https://4oceanfoundation.org/contact) [![1ftp_EnvironmentalPartner_Vertical_White](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/1ftp_EnvironmentalPartner_Vertical_White.png?width=75&height=98&name=1ftp_EnvironmentalPartner_Vertical_White.png "1ftp_EnvironmentalPartner_Vertical_White")](https://onepercentfortheplanet.org) [![Alex Schulze - 4ocean Charitable Foundation](https://4oceanfoundation.org/hs-fs/hubfs/alex.webp?width=65&height=70&name=alex.webp "Alex Schulze - 4ocean Charitable Foundation")](https://4oceanfoundation.com/about) **A MESSAGE FROM OUR CO-FOUNDER** Thank you so much for supporting our critical mission. Without people like you, we would not be able to remove millions of pounds of plastic from our ocean, rivers, and coastlines. We have a lot of work to do, but we are not going to stop until the ocean is clean. Together, we can end the ocean plastic crisis. Yewww!!! - Alex Schulze Copyright ©2025 4ocean Charitable Foundation. All rights reserved. - Terms of use - Privacy policy