Plastic pollution in our waterways has reached alarming levels, with the equivalent of one full garbage truck of plastic trash dumped into the oceans every minute—amounting to 1,440 trucks per day and a total of 8 billion kilograms annually. 80% of this plastic originates from land, entering the marine environment through rivers, canals, and stormwater runoff. The consequences are dire: birds, sea turtles, and other marine animals ingest plastic or become entangled, often leading to their death. Furthermore, microplastics present significant health risks, not only to marine life but also to humans, as they can accumulate in the food chain and release toxic substances.

The Bubble Barrier represents a significant step forward in technology designed to combat this growing pollution crisis. This system captures plastic pollution in rivers, leveraging a bubble curtain to direct debris to a catchment system for collection. By utilizing air pumped through a perforated tube at the bottom of waterways, the Bubble Barrier creates an upward current that guides plastic waste to the surface, where it can be efficiently collected without obstructing ship or fish passage.

The Bubble Barrier offers several key benefits. It effectively captures both larger plastic debris and microplastics across the full width and depth of the waterway, making it versatile for various locations without requiring changes to existing infrastructure. This technology operates 24/7 without the need for on-site operators, allowing for remote monitoring and optimal performance. It ensures safe passage for migrating fish and enhances dissolved oxygen levels, benefiting the aquatic ecosystem. The collected plastic is analyzed for valuable insights that can inform future actions against plastic pollution. This research supports municipalities and governments in implementing effective measures to combat plastic pollution. After collection, the plastic is sent to recycling centers, ensuring sustainable processing through existing waste management systems in the local community. Overall, the Bubble Barrier represents a significant step forward in reducing plastic pollution and preserving the health of our marine environments.