RIVER BARRIERS

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We target the tributaries of the world’s 1,000 most polluting rivers.

Research has shown that 80% of the trash that enters our oceans comes from 1,000 rivers, and aprox 4,000 smaller tributaries.

We place our river barriers in the smaller tributaries without maritime circulation.

How Do River Barriers Work?

Each river barrier is made up of a varying number of elements, depending on a variety of factors including the width, depth and flow of the river. Each barrier is strategically placed in the tributaries where there is no boat traffic and it will maximise the amount of trash it can stop.

How Are Trash Barriers Made?

The River Barriers are made of a combination of plastic PVC pipes, glue and grates made of galvanized steel which is coated with a waterproof treatment to prevent deterioration. Each barrier is made using local workshops and locally sourced materials to further support the surrounding communities. 

Frequently Asked Questions?

do the barriers affect the marine animals?

No, the barriers are placed in rivers where the water is deeper than the barriers  to allow marine wildlife to continue to swim through and under them. Additionally, the barriers improve the health of the water by removing plastics which breakdown into toxic chemicals.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING FLOODS?

The barriers are fixed to the banks of the rivers with a strong cable, that allows room for the barriers to float higher during heavy flows of water and continue to work. The barriers are very effective in these conditions when they are needed the most.

Can you use recycled plastic for the pipes?

While we don’t have the facilities yet, we intend to make our barriers out of recycled plastic from our collected trash in the future to reduce the need for virgin plastic.

How much trash do they collect?

Each river barrier location has a different volume of trash which flows through the waters, however they can range from between 10 to 20 tonnes of trash per year.