SodaStream develops 1,000 foot-long plastic collection device

SodaStream has created a 1,000 foot-long plastic waste collection device called the “Holy Turtle”, which is designed to clean plastic waste from open waters.

Developed in collaboration with ABBCO and inspired by oil spill containment systems, the “Holy Turtle” is a floating unit which captures floating waste while its large vent holes act to protect wildlife.

The unit is towed by two ships across open water, and the device was first used last week in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Roatán, Honduras.

The plastic pollution collected by the “Holy Turtle” will be used to create an exhibition to raise awareness and educate consumers about the importance of recycling.

SodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum said: “We can’t clean up all the plastic waste on the planet, but we each need to do whatever we can. The most important thing is to commit ourselves to stop using single-use plastic.”

“More than 8 million tonnes of plastic goes into the ocean every year. This plastic doesn’t disappear. It breaks up into tiny particles, floats in the ocean, endangers marine life and ends up in our food chain.

“We must all put our hands together to reduce the use of single-use plastic and commit ourselves to changing our habits and go reusable. It’s in our hands.”

Israeli carbonated water machine maker SodaStream was acquired by PepsiCo in a $3.2 billion deal in August.