Sea pollution is a serious issue that exists in our oceans today, so bad that it is now its own ecosystem and is created mostly through human shoreline activities. A team of two Australians; Andrew Turton and Pete Ceglinski want to clean the world’s ocean one bin at a time. First, they wanted to create a system similar to an automated pool cleaner for marinas, harbors, ports, rivers, and lakes. The design of the bin is made up of 70 to 100 percent recycled polyththylene plastic and automatically collects rubbish, fuel, detergents and other debris from the surrounding water; essentially becoming a trash can for the ocean. The bin itself floats by docks of marinas, harbors yacht clubs, and other similar aquatic locations. Seabin started with these areas specifically because of debris that easily collect in these areas due to heavy boat traffic and prevailing winds; and in comparison are often calm waters as opposed to the storminess of the open ocean.

The floating bins are connected via pipes to a shore-based water pump that pulls water through the bin. Water flows through the container, where a natural fiber bag is used to collect the debris that is present in the water. After the waste is filtered out, the water flows through the pump system where it can be cleaned even further using a water/oil separator. After processing, the water then is pumped back into the ocean. The Seabin works 24/7, collecting debris in the bag and holding it near the bin when it is full. The best part about this design is the size simply because it only requires ONE operator to scoop the floating debris and change the bag without assistance.

As of right now the Seabin has raised more than$240,000 dollars to push further projects after a successful prototype in Mallorca, Spain. Although the price of one bin ranges close to $4,00 dollars no fish are harmed and debris is cleaned. Hopefully we can get Seabin to exist in the rivers of New York City.

Mattie Love

http://www.treehugger.com/sustainable-product- design/seabin-floating- invention-filters-plastic-pollution- out-water.html