Algalita Marine Research and Education, founded in 1994 by Captain Charles Moore, launched the global movement to end plastic pollution nearly three decades ago. Captain Moore was the first to document the vast accumulation of plastic debris in the Pacific Ocean—now widely known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. His groundbreaking research and public outreach, including appearances on The Late Show, U.S. News, and TED Talks, catalyzed what Algalita calls “The Great Plastics Awakening,” drawing global attention to the environmental threats posed by plastic waste in our oceans.

Building on this legacy, Algalita has transformed the conversation around plastic pollution by connecting researchers, educators, youth, and activists across the world. Recognizing the power of educators in shaping future changemakers, they launched Wayfinder Society for Environmental Education—a free, interdisciplinary platform offering classroom toolkits, lesson plans, mini-grants, and professional development opportunities that explore plastic pollution in the context of climate change, environmental justice, and sustainability. Locally, Algalita brings its mission to life through hands-on Environmental Science Field Trips for middle and high school students, providing real-world experiences that help youth understand the environmental and societal impacts of synthetic materials and empowering them to be part of the solution.

Algalita also partners with community leaders to support local, tangible solutions. In 2017, they teamed up with Julie Darrel, founder of BYO Long Beach, to open the first dedicated refill store in all of Los Angeles County. The store offers plastic-free alternatives, bulk home and body care products, and serves as a welcoming oasis for the community to shop ethically and reduce their packaging footprint. Algalita’s office and BYO Long Beach is located at 148 N Marina Drive in Alamitos Bay Landing, Long Beach.

Algalita Marine Research and Education
148 N Marina Drive in Alamitos Bay Landing, Long Beach
562/598-4889
emily@algalita.org
http://www.algalita.org

Instagram: @algalita
Facebook: Algalita Marine Research and Education
LinkedIn: Algalita Marine Research and Education