After an extensive trial phase with a U-shaped tube system, The Ocean Cleanup has finally begun to sweep the ocean clean, under the charismatic leadership of Boyan Slat. This all took place under an intense media spotlight. Everything seems to be going according to plan so far. They arrived at the Great Pacific Garbage Patch on 16 October, after just a two-week voyage from San Francisco, where the system will be tested ‘for real’. Furthermore, we are pleased to announce that a patent has since been granted to The Ocean Cleanup. V.O. took care of this as the knowledge partner and sponsor. This patent is particularly important because it gives The Ocean Cleanup the opportunity to continue deploying their technology without any obstacles. Without a patent, they would run a greater risk of entering IP waters belonging to third parties, to keep with the marine terminology, and all the accompanying legal barriers. To be continued.
