Category: Aquatic Plastic

Published: 11 March 2025

The third podcast episode centered around a conversation with Sydney Steenland, who shared her experiences of growing up with a profound connection to the sea and her journey into addressing plastic pollution. Sydney's upbringing was unconventional; her family lived on boats, moving from place to place, which instilled in her a deep appreciation and understanding of the marine environment. Despite financial struggles, her family found solace and creativity in this lifestyle, eventually leading to the establishment of the Sea Monkey Project. The project was born out of a desire to address plastic pollution, especially in remote communities, by creating accessible recycling solutions.

This episode feels like listening to an audiobook. Sydney's life is full of twists and turns. As a child, she experienced a closeness to nature that few are ever fortunate enough to enjoy. Of course, that came with its own set of challenges. Her childhood experiences ultimately led the still very young Sydney to establish the Sea Monkey Project.

If you have a moment, dive into the story of Sydney's life and the journey behind her aspirations. It really is like a book—captivating and impossible to put down / turn off!

What can you learn from this episode?

• In the opening chapter, we delve into Sydney’s life story—how a so-called spoiled child blossomed into a nature-loving, boat-dwelling, life-embracing individual, both as a child and an adult. We also explore what nature truly means to her.
  • “I was not homeschooled, I was world-schooled” - Sydney.
  • You can get to know someone who was raised like, lived like Moana.
• The second chapter shifts focus to the pressing issue of plastic pollution and the inspiring journey behind the creation of the Sea Monkey Project.
  • How to build a machine for plastic recycling?
    • And why will others want to use it too?
• Finally, in the third chapter, we uncover some solutions to this global challenge. But will the story have a happy ending? Tune in to find out!

About Sea Monkey Project:

“At the Sea Monkey Project, we turn trash into treasure, creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering a decentralized circular economy ecosystem, one community at a time. We believe that by rethinking our material choices and equipping marginalized groups with the tools and knowledge to upcycle plastic waste, we can make a lasting impact on both the environment and society. Together, we are building a future where the oceans are cleaner, and opportunities are endless” - https://seamonkeyprojects.com/#who-are-we.

Sydney described the process of developing the recycling machines and the challenges faced along the way, including using reclaimed materials and learning through trial and error. The Sea Monkey Project succeeded due to its innovative approach and commitment to local engagement, and it has become a beacon for small-scale recycling efforts.

Her journey hasn't been without personal challenges, especially being a young face of a significant environmental project and dealing with public attention. However, she emphasized the importance of storytelling and genuine connection to nature, which keeps her grounded and motivated.

This episode serves as a compelling example of how personal history, passion, and a bit of happenstance can lead to significant positive impact in the world, particularly in raising awareness and addressing environmental issues like plastic pollution.

About Aquatic Plastic

Aquatic Plastic is brought to you by the Interreg Danube Region Programme, co-funded by the European Union. Operating within the world's most international river basin, the Aquatic Plastic Danube-Region Interreg project unites 33 organizations spanning 10 countries. Together, we are executing 19 pilot actions and developing 8 solutions aimed at preventing, reducing, and managing plastic pollution in the natural waterways of the Danube River Basin. How do we navigate through such diverse borders? Explore further by delving into our report, and begin following our journey on LinkedIn and other social media platforms.

Listen here - Aquatic Plastic Podcast - Episode 3