Dive. Clean. Eat. Repeat.
Did you know that each piece of plastic ever produced still exists on this earth today? Sadly, a lot of it ends up in our oceans, killing ecosystems and adding to climate change in the process. The plastic pollution problem is the main motivation behind the passionate leaders of beach cleanup initiative #SeaTheBiggerPicture.
Chris and Natasha Krauss, Shamier Magmoet and Juneid Petersen are avid divers, freedivers and ocean lovers. Regularly surrounded by environmentalists on their diving adventures, they began to learn more about the impact of plastic in the oceans and rivers — namely that millions of turtles, dolphins and seabirds die each year from getting entangled or ingesting human garbage. According to National Geographic, nearly 700 species of marine animals and organisms have been negatively affected by plastic waste from humans.
The four friends knew that in order to reduce the causes and consequences of plastic in our oceans, they had to create engagement with the community. Together with a devoted team of nature lovers, they now spread awareness about how to avoid ocean pollution and host ocean cleanup events under the name #SeaTheBiggerPicture in Cape Town, South Africa. The organisation's efforts are focused on education through collaborative action.
Plastic may have been convenient for us in the last decades, however, the consequences of human addiction to plastic are starting to outweigh the benefits, putting the earth at risk and threatening the survival of animal species and our own well-being.
Some alarming ocean plastic facts:
- The equivalent of one garbage truck of litter is being dumped into the sea every minute.
- Over 90% of all seabirds have plastic in their stomachs.
- The amount of plastic in the oceans could increase tenfold in the next decade if we do not act now.
How does #SeaTheBiggerPicture help?
- The organisation unites local NGOs, individuals, businesses and clubs by hosting beach cleanups events and dispose of plastic and litter at proper recycling stations. Beach cleanups are an important way to gather fresh data about the state of our oceans and types of garbage that pollutes them. By identifying the most harmful debris, environmental researchers can find ways to stop this waste from ending up the seas or on beaches.
- Brainchild of vice chairperson Shamier Magmoet, the ‘Defenders of the Blue’ community programme is geared to building relationships with children and youth and educating them about how to mitigate the effects of pollution on the environment. Through a rock pool based snorkelling course, kids learn about the diverse and fascinating marine life inhabiting the local shores.
- They host talks at schools, environmental events and markets to advocate for changes in consumption, production and disposing of plastic for individuals and corporate businesses in South Africa.
Local organisations such as #SeaTheBiggerPicture are essential to motivate the communities around them to act. Hosting collaborative events leads to a change in perception, which in turn results in lasting cultural change. They seek to change people’s behaviour toward a sense of collective responsibility for our planet.
Take action today
To find and join a beach cleanup event, follow local organisations on Instagram or Facebook and stay tuned for announcements. Most initiatives will eagerly promote their events on social media. The Ocean Conservancy also organises an international beach cleanup day each year, empowering thousands of people all over the world to unite and clean beaches near them.
If you do not live close to a beach, but are concerned about the ocean’s plastic pollution problem, consider donating to an organisation to help them educate and spread awareness. Proof of Impact will soon make it possible for you to fund units of ocean trash gathered and recycled with verifiable proof points, so you know exactly where, when and how your donation is spent.
And last but not least, you can organise your very own beach cleanup! On a sunny day, gather your friends, family, neighbours and kids and head to the beach with bags in tow. Make sure to properly dispose of your gathered litter by taking it to the designated recycling stations. And don’t forget to take a #usefulselfie to inspire those around you!
Find out more about the efforts of and how to support #SeaTheBiggerPicture on their website and watch out for events in Cape Town, South Africa on Instagram.
Proof of Impact is a proud partner of #SeaTheBiggerPicture and is making it possible for you to easily fund beach cleanups and educational events through the Impact Marketplace.
Sign up here for early access! In the meantime, stay tuned for updates on LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

