On December 3rd, Ocean Plastic International Matchmaking (OPIM 2024) brought together stakeholders from around the globe to tackle the pressing challenge of ocean plastic pollution.
This year’s event had a large outreach with more than 70 participants representing companies, universities, agencies and networks from more than 15 countries.
Our yeynote speakers Jes Vollertsen fra Aalborg University and Andy Booth (on behalf of Stefania Piarulli) from SINTEF shared their cutting-edge research on microplastic pollution.
As a new addition, we hosted the Innovative Ideas Accelerator Session featuring four pioneering startups presenting their groundbreaking solutions, supported by a panel of experts who provided valuable feedback to enhance their technological development and market potential.
Featured Projects:
OceanFront: The Natural Seabed initiative for alternative ocean plastic collection.
PolyGone Systems: Advanced filtration technology to capture microplastics before it reaches the oceans.
Wasser 3.0 gGmbH: A cost- and energy-efficient solution for microplastic capture and removal in WWTPs.
Re:Lab AB: Innovative technology breaking down polluted plastics into molecular components.
Also a huge thank you to our expert panel who provided valuable feedback to the start-ups:
- Benjamin Lesage from Sustainable Ocean Alliance
- Frederik Hinz Andersen from OCEAN FLAGSHIPS
- Lars Fogh Mortensen from European Environment Agency & The Club of Rome
- Markus Böhm from Planet Ocean Fund
Throughout the day, more than 40 1:1 matchmaking meetings took place, fostering connections and partnerships that will help drive future innovation and impactful solutions. Ocean plastic pollution is a global challenge, and no single organization can solve it alone. Events like OPIM 2024 prove that collaboration across borders and industries is key to turning the tide. Together, we’re creating new networks and advancing long-term solutions.
Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this year’s success!
Look out for next year’s event at www.opim.info