Every year millions of tons of trash end up in the ocean. By 2050 there could be more plastic than fish in the sea. Therefore, the European Union, the United Nations and the Smurfs are teaming up. For clean oceans and clean beaches.

EU and UN offices all across the world will organise beach cleanup events together with local organisations, schools, etc.

We invite you all to participate! No matter how young or old, or wherever you are, your help can make our ocean healthier.

Partners

European Union

The EU is spearheading global efforts to reduce and avoid plastic pollution, including marine litter. Next to ambitious reuse and recycling targets, EU policy will help reduce single use plastics and microplastics as well as waste from lost fishing gear. The EU also has an envelope of € 350 million earmarked for R&D in this area. Other measures include fishing for litter campaigns, compensating fishermen for cleaning up the ocean.

Through its worldwide network of EU delegations (“embassies”) as well as the representations in EU member states, the EU now reaches out to citizens worldwide, creating awareness about the issue and encouraging people to take care of our blue planet.

United Nations

In 2015, 193 world leaders adopted the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 14 ‘life below water’. By 2025, all UN member states pledge to prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.  A global network of 59 United Nations Information Centres are teaming up with the EU to reach out to youth, local partners and all citizens so that everybody can play its part in respecting the environment and cherishing our oceans.

Smurfs

Three apples high, The Smurfs began life in 1958 as comic book characters created by Pierre Culliford, better known under his pseudonym, Peyo.  

For more than 60 years, the Smurfs have communicated universal values such as solidarity, courage, tolerance, work, respect for nature and the environment. These values transcend age, gender and cultures. It is thus quite natural that the Smurfs are involved in the cleaning of oceans and beaches.