We already know many of the tactics and solutions we need to solve the plastic pollution crisis, but they require testing in real-world scenarios before they can scale.
Our 'Clean Blue' projects help turn our theory of systems change into action – delivering practical, on-the-ground demonstrations of circular economy solutions.
We've run Clean Blue projects in Greece, the Maldives and Indonesia, where our local team works with partners to drive new policy, invest in the circular economy and embed a cultural shift in how communities make, use and dispose of plastic.
How it works
Investigate
Identify waste streams and leakage.
To solve a problem, we must first understand it. By building a complete picture of an island’s plastic ecosystem, we can identify the best levers for change and create the right foundations to monitor progress, measure impact and reinforce action.
For example, we explore how local people perceive plastic, how it ‘flows’ around a community, and which items are found where. We gather baseline data on marine, social and waste factors, and use Plastic Drawdown to provide further insight and identify key policy recommendations.
Intervene
Incubate and accelerate solutions.
Real solutions to plastic pollution don’t exist in isolation. By partnering with local stakeholders, we deliver creative, joined-up interventions that remove problem plastics from the economy and prevent plastic from becoming waste.
For example, we invest in local entrepreneurs to pilot new systems that phase out single-use plastics. We also connect with local waste management organisations to demonstrate new systems or optimise existing ones.
Influence
Replicate and scale best practice.
A successful solution is one that can scale. By testing and demonstrating the impact of our interventions, we help them attract support, inform government policy and rapidly scale.
For example, we invest in initiatives with the greatest potential, nurture their growth, track their impact and celebrate success. By shining a light on our impact, we can pinpoint effective policies and build confidence in implementing them. We also invest in education interventions to embed long-lasting change.
A successful solution is one that can scale. By testing and demonstrating the impact of our interventions, we help them attract support, inform government policy and rapidly scale.
For example, we invest in initiatives with the greatest potential, nurture their growth, track their impact and celebrate success. By shining a light on our impact, we can pinpoint effective policies and build confidence in implementing them. We also invest in education interventions to embed long-lasting change.
“Clean Blue Alliance is an exciting collaborative solution-led approach that engages top down and bottom up, combining research, policy, innovation and community action. The Municipality of Paros are proud partners on a journey with Common Seas to eliminate plastic waste from source to sea.”
Markos Koveos
Mayor of Paros Island
