MDLifespan Partners with 4ocean to Tackle Plastic Pollution

In celebration of the NOAA’s Ocean Month and World Oceans Day, MDLifespan announced a new partnership with 4ocean, an organization dedicated to removing plastic waste from the world’s oceans, rivers, and coastlines. As a Certified Cleanup Partner, MDLifespan is committed to pulling 10,000 pounds of plastic from our vital ecosystems by June 2025.  

Dr. Paul Savage, founder of MDLifespan, shared his excitement, “We’ve neglected our planet, but we’re ready to change that! We’re thrilled to partner with 4ocean to remove 10,000 pounds of plastic from our oceans. A cleaner planet means better health for everyone.”  

One significant way microplastics enter our bodies is through the food we consume. Microplastics travel through the ocean and are ingested by marine wildlife, which are then eaten by humans, transferring the microplastics into our bodies. 

Toxic Plastics: A Rising Global Crisis  

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue. Since the 1950s, the world has produced an estimated 18.3 trillion pounds of plastic, with less than 10% being recycled and 79% accumulating in the environment. The World Economic Forum predicts that global plastic production will triple by 2050.  

The damage from plastic pollution is beyond the environment, posing threats to the global economy, food supply, and societal health. Ocean-based industries, such as fishing and tourism, employ billions of people and contribute trillions to the global economy. With more than 3 billion people relying on seafood as a primary source of protein, our global food supply is at risk due to increased pollution. When consumed, these tiny plastic particles, also known as microplastics, leach into body tissue and cause harmful health effects. Recent studies have linked microplastics to heart disease and infertility issues.  

Partnership Poised for Success 

Since its inception in 2017, 4ocean has been combating ocean plastic pollution. Their professional, full-time captains and crews have removed over 29 million pounds of plastic waste and other man-made debris from our oceans and coastlines.  

Ryan Dick, Brand Partnership Representative for 4ocean, believes this partnership is a perfect synergy. “We’re thrilled to team up with MDLifespan! Their mission to eliminate microplastics from the body aligns perfectly with our goal to end plastic pollution. Together, we’re a powerful force for change.”  

The theme for World Oceans Day 2024, “Waves of Change: Collective Actions for the Ocean,” emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing ocean challenges. Through this partnership, MDLifespan and 4ocean are addressing a critical environmental issue and promoting a healthier planet and population.