In a single year, 11 million metric tons of new plastic enters our ocean with estimates of that number potentially tripling by 2040. Of those numbers 5 million metric tons are plastic films and another 0.7 million metric tons are microplastics, staggering numbers that speak to the urgency that we must take action to mitigate this issue, especially in urban centers in coastal communities.
Building a pathway of leadership and professional opportunities for young ocean conservation leaders is key to eliminating plastic pollution in order to restore the ocean to health and abundance. EarthEcho has partnered with SC Johnson to build a network of youth to become Marine Plastics Ambassadors—a force for ocean restoration. This year 30 young leaders (ages 16-22 in the Great Lakes and Southeast regions of the US) will participate in a dynamic program designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to combat marine plastics pollution.
Through a combination of virtual seminars, hands-on advocacy training, and direct engagement with policy makers, these ambassadors will lead impactful campaigns and entrepreneurial ventures aimed at reducing plastic waste in local communities. By empowering these young leaders to take action, EarthEcho and SC Johnson are creating a powerful network of change-makers who will champion innovative solutions, influence policy decisions, and inspire others to protect and restore the health of our oceans.
If you have any questions, please contact EarthEcho’s Marine Plastics Program Manager, Sam Athey at sam@earthecho.org. Thank you for your support!
Interested in taking action to end plastic pollution? Check out our marine plastics campaigns and get involved today!
Youth representatives from the Children and Youth Major Group to the UN Environment Programme urge global leaders to adopt a strong, legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution that addresses the full life cycle of plastics, health impacts, and time-bound commitments. They emphasize that meaningful, ongoing youth participation is essential to achieving intergenerational equity and lasting environmental change.
Attending the Water Conference at the United Nations was one of the most enlightening experiences I’ve had as a 16-year-old water advocate. It showed me how diplomatic relations play out and how water conservation brings countries together over a shared essential resource.
My Project CLEAR Chicago focused on reducing the amount of plastic that is used at Chicago public beaches by families and spreading awareness about the impact single use plastic has on our local environment.
Experts have made it clear that urgent action is needed to curb our consumption of plastics. Find everything you need to know about the Global Plastics treaty, the #Youth4PlasticJustice movement, and how you can get involved!
As an EarthEcho Marine Plastics Ambassador, I’ve had the opportunity of turning my passion for the Great Lakes into a real, impactful difference. Being an ambassador has been more than a title; it has been an experience of learning, leadership, and inspiring others to care deeply about the plastic pollution crisis that is threatening our waters and the world we all share and admire.
What is the Marine Plastics Ambassador program?
EarthEcho has partnered with SC Johnson to build a network of youth to become Marine Plastics Ambassadors—a force for ocean restoration through the elimination of marine debris. In 2025, this program will empower and engage 30 young changemakers (ages 16-22) from across the U.S. with the skills and resources to execute plastics pollution mitigation campaigns or projects. Ambassadors will gain knowledge on marine plastics, materials innovation, and advocacy, and will receive funding, training, and hands-on experience to address plastic pollution in their local communities.
Who can participate in the Marine Plastics Ambassador program?
The 2025 Marine Plastics Ambassador program is open to youth ages 16 to 22 (at the time of application) that reside within the Great Lakes region of the US or Southeast region of the US. The Great Lakes region includes the U.S. states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The Southeast region includes the U.S. states of North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.
How do I submit an application?
Submit your application here. Applications are due by March 30, 2024 at 11:59pm EASTERN.
Can I be a Marine Plastics Ambassador if I am not located in the Great Lakes or Southeast region?
The Marine Plastics Ambassador program currently does not operate outside the Great Lakes and Southeast regions. However, you can join our GenSea network to learn about more EarthEcho opportunities in your region and be notified when the Marine Plastics Ambassador program expands.
What are the key dates for the program?
Applications for the EarthEcho 2025 Marine Plastics Ambassadors program are due by March 30th, 2025, at 11:59pm EASTERN. Ambassadors will kick off with a virtual event during Earth Week (April 24th at 6pm ET), followed by six weeks of twice-weekly virtual seminars on marine plastics and campaign building (Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm ET from the week of May 5th through the week of June 9th). Ambassadors who attend all 12 hours of the seminars will receive a $500 stipend. They will then submit a proposal by June 13th for up to $1,000 in funding for a policy campaign or entrepreneurial venture to reduce marine plastics. In late July, ambassadors will participate in a 5-day advocacy workshop in Washington, DC, and begin executing their campaigns or ventures by June 30th, with continued support through October.
What are other ways I can connect with EarthEcho International?
Be sure to connect with us via social media on Facebook, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, and Instagram to learn the latest about our work and opportunities for young conservation leaders. Be sure to join GenSea for the latest updates and opportunities from EarthEcho for young ocean leaders!
Still have questions? Please direct additional questions to sam@earthecho.org.
Submit your application for the 2025 Marine Plastics Ambassadors program here. Applications are due by March 30, 2024 at 11:59pm EASTERN.
We’re proud to work with this outstanding group of young advocates and community leaders working to end plastic pollution in their communities.
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